A communications coordinator is the person responsible for connecting a company or business to the media. This job requires a variety of responsibilities for the coordinator, ranging from building media lists, planning events, and creating press materials to gauging the success of a campaign and completing required continuing education. Independent communications coordinators must also handle the burden of generating new business by finding clients.
Everything a communications coordinator does is intended to improve a company's public image by spreading news about that organization. A communication coordinator needs a media list to ensure the success of any campaign. Building a list means seeking out the appropriate contacts within newspapers, websites, radio stations and television stations. Creating personal relationships with reporters and editors at these outlets is key to getting information out quickly and accurately.
Creating the press material that is eventually distributed to the media is also a responsibility of a communications coordinator. Press releases, op-ed articles, pamphlets, brochures, and online content must all be written and edited by a coordinator. These communications must be written with the company's image in mind and portray positive information to the public.
Event planning is another frequent responsibility of the communications coordinator. Trade show appearances, banquets and public relations events are normally handled by a coordinator. This job encompasses everything from invitations and space rentals to travel to ensure an event happens and attracts media attention.
Communications coordinators must also determine if an event or publicity campaign is a success. This is done by monitoring hits. A hit is a mention of the company in any form of media. Compiling these hits, including newspaper articles, radio and television mentions, into a report is frequently necessary to show management how well a company is being represented in the media.
Continuing education is frequently required of a communications coordinator as well. Attending classes and workshops that focus on communication techniques is one way to ensure a coordinator is on the cutting edge of the industry. Some companies help pay for further education, but often a coordinator must handle the financial burden himself.
Independent and freelance communications coordinators have an added sales aspect to the basic job description. These professionals are responsible for generating new business. Seeking out potential clients, pitching to these clients and convincing them to utilize communication services is also necessary. This duty can require large amounts of time and generally requires a person with an outgoing personality.