Moving from PR into Public Affairs: What You Need to Know
This article is written for candidates who have experience in public relations and are considering a move into public affairs. It explains the similarities, differences and practical steps to make the transition successfully.
Introduction
Public relations and public affairs are closely connected. Both involve communication, influence and reputation management. Many professionals begin their career in PR and later consider moving into public affairs to focus more on politics, policy and stakeholder engagement.
But while the two disciplines overlap, they are not the same. Making the switch requires an understanding of the differences and the skills you need to develop.
This guide will explain what public affairs involves, how it differs from PR, and how to position yourself as a strong candidate for public affairs roles.
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The Similarities Between PR and Public Affairs
Both PR and public affairs professionals:
- Build relationships with stakeholders.
- Communicate complex issues clearly and persuasively.
- Protect and enhance an organisation’s reputation.
- Manage crises and respond to external events.
These shared skills mean PR professionals often have a strong foundation for moving into public affairs.
The Key Differences
The main difference is the focus of activity:
- PR: Primarily about reputation management through the media, campaigns and public communication.
- Public affairs: Focused on influencing government, parliament and regulators through direct engagement, policy analysis and political strategy.
While PR campaigns may aim at public opinion, public affairs is more targeted — persuading decision-makers who shape laws, regulations and public policy.
Why PR Professionals Move Into Public Affairs
- Interest in politics — Many people are drawn to public affairs because they enjoy following political developments.
- Desire for impact — Public affairs offers the opportunity to influence the rules and policies that affect industries and society.
- Career progression — Experience in both PR and public affairs can make you a stronger candidate for senior communications leadership roles.
Skills You Can Transfer from PR to Public Affairs
- Media and communication skills: Strong writing, messaging and presentation are valuable in both fields.
- Campaign experience: Coordinating campaigns is directly relevant when planning political or policy campaigns.
- Stakeholder engagement: If you have experience building relationships with journalists, you can adapt those skills to political stakeholders.
- Crisis management: Knowing how to respond under pressure translates well into high-profile political situations.
Skills You May Need to Develop
- Political knowledge: Understanding parliamentary processes, government structures and how policy is made.
- Policy analysis: The ability to review consultations, legislation and reports, and advise on their implications.
- Networking in politics: Building relationships with MPs, advisers, civil servants and think tanks.
- Strategic judgement: Advising on political risks and opportunities, often with incomplete information.
Practical Steps to Make the Transition
- Stay informed — Follow parliamentary business, select committees and political news every day.
- Highlight relevant experience — On your CV, emphasise stakeholder engagement, campaigns and strategic communication.
- Get exposure to policy work — Volunteer for projects in your current role that have a political or regulatory angle.
- Network — Attend events hosted by trade associations, think tanks or All-Party Parliamentary Groups.
- Consider agency roles — Many agencies welcome PR professionals who can bring campaign and communication skills into a political context.
Common Career Routes
- Moving from a PR agency to a public affairs consultancy.
- Transitioning from an in-house PR role in a trade body or charity into a policy or campaigns role.
- Combining PR and public affairs in a communications generalist role before specialising.
Challenges to Be Aware Of
- Different audiences: You will move from dealing mainly with journalists to dealing with politicians and officials.
- Steep learning curve: Parliamentary procedure and policymaking processes can take time to learn.
- Competitive market: Many candidates have direct political experience, so you need to show how your PR background adds value.
Final Thoughts
Moving from PR into public affairs is a realistic and rewarding career step. The two professions share a strong foundation, and your communication and campaign skills will be highly relevant.
The key is to demonstrate political awareness, develop policy knowledge and show how your PR experience translates into influencing decision-makers. With preparation and persistence, PR professionals can make a smooth and successful transition into public affairs.
Looking to move into public affairs? Westminster Search works with agencies, charities and membership bodies that value candidates with PR and communications backgrounds. Register with us today to explore opportunities.
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