Public Relations Ranks High as Stressful Job

By Cynthia Price

Turns out those of us who work in PR aren't exaggerating when we say we're stressed. According to Careers Cast, public relations officer is the second most stressful job.

The most stressful? Commercial pilot.

Marilyn Saltzman of Colorado Press Women and Karen Galanaugh of Delaware Press Association work in PR and share why PR is stressful and how to unwind.

Saltzman, who retired as communications manager for Jefferson County Public Schools, Colorado's largest school district, knows the stress of the job. She was one of the spokespersons during the Columbine tragedy.

She says PR is stressful because you have to expect the unexpected. "Your schedule can change in a moment's notice, requiring flexibility and the ability to live with ambiguity. You may have 20 things on your to-do list, and everything goes out the window because of a media request, some type of crisis or an urgent assignment."

Galanaugh, owner of Galanaugh & Company, says reputation management is a big stressor in PR. "It's up to you to manage the public opinion meter, mitigate pain to the company and prevent loss of sales, membership, investors or voters," she says. "You've got to get the facts, work fast, develop messages, clear it with the company attorneys, and use your PR training to communicate to all stakeholders."

To minimize the stress, Marilyn says being prepared and proactive are key. "Know what the potential issues are and take action before they become crisis," she says. "Make sure you have good internal sources of information, who respect you, ask for your advice, listen and give you what you need to do your job."

Karen says, "If you love your job it can seem less stressful." Of course, if all else fails, she says of handling her stress, "I eat and don't pick up after myself. It might work for others."