Corporate Communication Internship at PR Agency

Let me start here… I had the hardest time finding an internship during a global pandemic. The worst time ever to start looking for a job was now, but I was up for the challenge and tried applying (also it fit my curriculum).

At the beginning of my application process, I had a basic word-document CV which did not look very appealing and had the “How-to CV” google information on it. As I am German and feed to the stereotype of punctuality and looking ahead of time, I had 5 months time until I needed to begin the internship. I got a Canva account and made a more appealing CV putting more effort in my coverletters. I had a couple of interviews which did not go as well as hoped and then got the interview with the company which hired me, FleishmanHillard.

FleishmanHillard is a leading Public Relations Agency based in the US, with locations worldwide. Their slogan “The Power of True” spoke to me and convinced me that this is a firm I can identify with. They work in health- and corporate communication as well as brand- and public affairs. As examples, FH worked with EA Sports, the UNWomens HeForSheMovement or Philips. This variety in clients, makes my job fun day-by-day. I get to work on different projects, clients and communication strategies every day – making each day at work a surprise and an opportunity to grow.

During the interview I spoke to a man, who would later be my supervisor. He was very talkative and told me all about the firm, we started falling in a mutual dialogue and as I started relaxing, feeling more secure in the information I was providing, until I was thrown a curveball. My internet connection cut off every 50 seconds, so we had a hard time speaking, which during an interview is kind of the point. I did not hear from the company for 2 weeks, thinking I did not get the job due to our “miscommunication” until I received my E-Mail. I had gotten the Internship, and if possible I could start in a week. I took the chance and started my new job a week later.

*** “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take” – Michael Scott

My first month was a whirlwind of emotions. I was scared to let down my colleagues, worked over hours to make sure I do everything as diligent as possible while staying within the given deadlines. I was thrown into the cold water by being handed tasks and given independency, my colleagues having the trust in me to figure it out and do it for myself. Working in a time like Covid-19, meeting my colleagues partially in the office, partially virtual was a different experience than other internships I have had in the past. I must say, I would not have wanted it any different. We held weekly “Inspire Thursday” calls, in which our team got together virtually speaking about the progress in the company or interests out of the personal life which can be incorporated into the company’s business. I got to know my colleagues the same way I would have in the office, and for this open communication I am very appreciative.

After time, I got more routined into my daily work flow and was giving more responsibilities day by day. I can work in the office or home office and my co-workers trust my opinion, work and time management. We have had workshops, in which the Team of 14 people gave insights into the future and not once did I think that the people are superior to me. Rather, they welcomed my thoughts and ideas taking in what I am saying, even if it is not the most revolutionary thing they heard all day. If I needed help from my colleagues, throughout the internship I was assured they are only one “teams” call away, at all times.

Working in corporate communication was a goal of mine, knowing I would like to do my thesis in corporate communications I had set the internship as a goal to gain insights. These I definitely got, I have learned more in the past four months not only about what the job entails but also about my true passion, my capabilities and my weaknesses. I was able to take lead my own projects, knowing that what I do will be sent to clients and giving me a sense of pride and appreciation for my work. I learned a lot during the 4 months working for Fleishman Hillard and am happy for the chance I was given working for this firm and with my team. This experience has aided me in whatever may come in my future.

I am sad to say goodbye to my FleishmanHillard “Family” but I hope to reunite soon, as this internship was a once in a lifetime opportunity to look into a PR Agencies communication with a group of colleagues I will never forget.