Job Options

Despite the overall high unemployment rate, the evolving growth in emerging and established media means new positions and new titles are being created, even within older communication organizations.

Related jobs can be found in corporate and not-for-profit communication, education and training, public information and government, interactive networks and new media, etc., complementing the more commonly considered fields of radio and television, music and entertainment, cable and satellites, public relations and journalism, computers and the Internet.

Generally, there are six kinds of jobs within communication organizations and media businesses:  management, sales, creative, technical, finance, and legal.  

Specific large or small size, private or public sector, corporate or not-for-profit job titles and responsibilities vary greatly. 

In-person and online networking, informational interviewing, internships, part-time and freelance work are excellent ways to become individually known and visible within the local marketplace and to experience the similarities and differences in expectations and conditions before pursuing and accepting full-time positions.

Potential Employment Areas

The following communication, media, art, business, and related employment areas are worth considering as you plan for your own education, training and career:

advertising,  animation,  arts management,  audio and video production,  cable, consulting,  cross-cultural training,  education,  film production,  graphic arts, institutional communications,  Internet,  journalism,  law,  magazines,  marketing,  music production,  new media,  newspapers,  photography,  public relations,  publishing,  radio, research,  sales,  satellites,  television,  video games and writing. *

It is important to remember that, even with all the current emphases on technological efficiencies and skills, employers and recruiters are still especiallyinterested in hiring people who can think  critically, know the profession, speak and write well, take initiative, and work productively with others — all core components for effective communication, individual growth, professional development and ethical relations.

*Adapted from: Seguin, James & Sherri Hope Culver. (2010). Media Career Guide: Preparing for Jobs in the 21st Century (7th ed.). Boston: Bedford/St. Martins.