Communications editor skills for your resume and career

Top hard technical skills for a Communications Associate include digitally communicating using graphics, videos, and other visual media. Working knowledge of AP style and a keen understanding of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Having presentation skills that are backed with research and data.

Technical writing and communication can span many fields. However, there are specific fields that are especially open to technical communication, such as information technology and computer software (technical documentation, for example), as well as medical and health fields. Many of our graduates work for companies that involve computer technology, such as software companies and content management for web consulting firms. In addition, many of our graduates work in biomedical companies that require technical and global documentation of medical devices.

I can't say that I know of a sure bet, but places that deal with medical technology, healthcare, and related fields are probably going to need people well-trained to communicate specialized knowledge to a variety of audiences and in a variety of ways. Telemedicine seems to have gained a more permanent stronghold in the healthcare system, and I imagine that the various communication channels involved in this new way of practicing medicine will open opportunities for well-trained graduates, such as ours who are willing to be pioneers in this area.

-Before graduation, learn to write (error-free), speak clearly, prepare print, audio, and audio/visual pieces with the ability to respond in the media "language" (e.g., directed towards the media style and audience). Also, learn how to prepare for interviews, from appearance to mock interviews.

-Get two internships before graduation or one during college, and one immediately following graduation.

-Take a job that helps you build the skill set your dream career needs. Students will become contract workers, using a skill set needed by a company for a task before moving on to the next.

-Plan to get your Master's degree as soon as possible. This provides access to promotions and bigger paychecks.

With international relations, there are certain skillsets that should be highlighted. First, a proficiency in a foreign language remains a key skill that is always in demand. While the pandemic confined most of the world's population to their homes or to small groups, this has not halted international interactions and it seems that we are now even more interconnected through technology. Therefore, communication is key and the language tools to communicate are ever important. This provides a good segue into the second skillset...

Second, the ability to communicate in an effective written prose will always be in demand; however, many students often overlook this essential skillset in their toolbox. No matter what the future academic or professional goals and endeavors, the ability to write and even more the ability to write effectively is absolutely essential.

Third, critical thinking and analytical skills are a significant feature and asset with any degree in social sciences including international relations. The ability to demonstrate analytical reasoning, communication skills, research and data analysis are attributes that have always been and will continue to be sought after despite the pandemic. Moreover, these are technical skillsets that can be showcased during the pandemic with much of the work conducted remotely.

A recent National Association of Colleges and Employers Job Outlook Survey found that employers identified the ability to verbally communicate with others inside and outside the organization and the ability to create and/or edit written documents as among the top ten skills they seek when hiring new college graduates. Graduates who majored in Communication bring these critical skills to the workplace. They demonstrate strong verbal, nonverbal, and written communication skills and have considerable expertise in speaking well in front of small and large audiences (National Communication Association Website).

Organizations seek employees who can communicate across a limitless and evolving range of platforms in today's highly connected world. With a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Governors State University students gain the knowledge and skills to communicate with a variety of audiences through advertising, media, public relations, and one-on-one communication, which drives organizational success, human relations, and improves conflict management.