University of Liverpool students have gained key insights into the world of PR thanks to a duo of informative guest lectures by Outwrite.
Anthony Bullick, Outwrite PR managing director, spoke to approximately 80 second-year students offering career advice and guidance, sharing his journey into the industry, and showcasing the range of roles available in the sector.
The talks also gave a glimpse of what life is like working in a communications agency, including how his team engage with stakeholders and create meaningful strategies.
With many attendees gearing up to undertake a placement year, the sessions provided the perfect opportunity to ask questions and learn how best to position themselves to employers.
Anthony, one of only a handful of chartered PR practitioners in the UK, said: “I’m always passionate about helping the next generation enter the workforce, and equipping them with a better understanding of what they can expect is a key part of that process.
“It’s also very rewarding seeing students consider PR as a potential career after learning more about the industry, and it just goes to show the impact that discussions like these can have on someone’s future.”
The lectures form part of a long-standing relationship between the university and Outwrite, which has previously co-led a PR module in which students built a strategy for a real-life client campaign.
One learner who participated in the module was the North Wales-based agency’s latest recruit Ben Kavanagh.
With the collaboration acting as the first touchpoint between the 23-year-old and the firm, Ben joined the team as an account executive in December after hearing about a vacancy via communications and media lecturer Dr Brendan Maartens LinkedIn.
He said: “It was a great first experience of Outwrite and Anthony, whose seminars and lectures were both inspiring and insightful, giving me and my fellow students a chance to receive industry insights and career advice.
“The university module motivated me to volunteer and intern at a variety of companies to gain PR and marketing experience, which was a massive help when it came to entering the job market.”
Similarly, fellow account executive Sophia Thomas joined Outwrite after completing a two-week internship at its Mold office during her second year of university.
The 24-year-old took part in drafting social media posts and graphics, writing press releases, and arranging PR photoshoots for clients during her time with the agency.
The experience further fuelled her interest in the industry as she was given a glimpse into the fast-paced nature of life at a PR agency.
Anthony added: “We love supporting emerging talent and are always looking for opportunities to engage with schools, colleges, and universities alike to strengthen young people’s skills and knowledge.”
Outwrite’s clients include construction firm Wynne Construction, Jones Bros Civil Engineering UK, Warrington-based Watsons Solicitors, and Xplore! Science Discovery Centre.
The agency specialises in integrated PR, crisis PR, and online reputation management.