Digital PR Specialist

📌 Core Information - Job Title: Digital PR Specialist - Company: seoplus+ - Location: Ottawa, Ontario (Hybrid) - Job Type: Full-time - Category: Advertising & Marketing - Date Posted: May 12, 2025 - Experience Level: Entry-level to Mid-level (0-2 years) - Remote Status: Hybrid (3 days/week in-office) 🚀 Job Overview Key aspects of this role include: - Collaborating with the Media Relations Strategist and Digital PR team to create compelling PR content. - Monitoring industry news and media opportunities daily using top PR platforms. - Writing persuasive submissions, guest blogs, and bylined content tailored to diverse client voices and verticals. - Confidently leading client meetings and calls with journalists to coordinate media opportunities. - Researching and pitching newsworthy ideas to media contacts while strengthening relationships with publishers, bloggers, and influencers. - Contributing to local directory citations, competitor benchmarking, and backlink audits to support client SEO strategies. - Tracking campaign progress, engagement, and success using PR analytics tools and internal systems. - Participating in strategy brainstorms, team collaboration sessions, and client storytelling initiatives. - Representing seoplus+ at networking events and contributing to our growing media presence. - Staying curious and informed about current events, media trends, and the ever-changing world of Digital PR. ASSUMPTION: This role requires a proactive, self-starter attitude with a strong passion for storytelling and media relations. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced agency environment and be eager to take on new challenges. 📋 Key Responsibilities - Campaign Development & Execution: Collaborate with the team to create and execute digital PR campaigns that align with client objectives and industry best practices. - *ASSUMPTION:* This responsibility involves understanding client needs, developing creative strategies, and working closely with the team to ensure campaign success. - Media Outreach & Relations: Build and maintain strong relationships with media contacts across various verticals to secure top-tier media placements for clients. - *ASSUMPTION:* This responsibility requires excellent communication skills, a deep understanding of the media landscape, and the ability to pitch compelling stories to journalists. - Content Creation: Write and edit high-quality PR content, including press releases, media alerts, blog posts, and other marketing materials, tailored to each client's unique voice and brand guidelines. - *ASSUMPTION:* This responsibility demands strong writing and editing skills, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to adapt to different writing styles and tones. - Campaign Performance Tracking: Monitor and analyze campaign performance using PR analytics tools and internal systems, providing regular updates to clients and the team on progress and results. - *ASSUMPTION:* This responsibility involves staying up-to-date with the latest PR analytics tools and understanding how to interpret and report on campaign performance data. - Team Collaboration & Support: Work closely with the Digital PR team, contributing to brainstorming sessions, providing support on projects as needed, and helping to maintain a positive and collaborative team environment. - *ASSUMPTION:* This responsibility requires strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and a willingness to lend a helping hand when needed. 🎯 Required Qualifications - Education: A recent graduate or early-career professional with a degree in Public Relations, Journalism, Communications, Marketing, or a related field. - *ASSUMPTION:* A relevant degree demonstrates a strong foundation in the principles of public relations, communications, and marketing. - Experience: 0-2 years of experience in public relations, journalism, communications, or a related field. - *ASSUMPTION:* While this role is entry-level to mid-level, some relevant experience is preferred to hit the ground running. - Required Skills: - Excellent writing and editing skills with a strong understanding of tone, audience, and content strategy. - Highly organized and detail-oriented with the ability to juggle multiple campaigns and deadlines. - Comfortable with media outreach across various channels, including email, phone, events, social media, and video calls. - Deep interest in the media landscape, pop culture, current affairs, and industry trends. - Strong research skills and creative thinking to identify unique, newsworthy angles. - Experience working in an agency environment or handling multiple client portfolios is an asset. - Familiarity with media databases (e.g., Agility PR, MuckRack), SEO tools (e.g., SEMrush, Ahrefs, Majestic), and Google Workspace. - Confident in public speaking, leading meetings, and presenting campaign strategies. - Driven by results, feedback, and collaboration, with a desire to grow within the digital PR space. - *ASSUMPTION:* These skills are essential for success in this role and demonstrate a strong fit for the required qualifications. - Preferred Skills: - Experience with media monitoring tools (e.g., Mention, Brand24). - Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello). - Knowledge of HTML, CSS, or JavaScript. - Bilingual or multilingual skills. - *ASSUMPTION:* While not required, these skills can provide a competitive edge and contribute to success in the role. ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will possess a unique blend of strong writing and communication skills, a keen eye for detail, and a proactive, self-starter attitude with a passion for storytelling and media relations. 💰 Compensation & Benefits - Salary Range: $45,000 - $50,000/year - *ASSUMPTION:* This salary range is competitive for an entry-level to mid-level Digital PR Specialist role in the Ottawa area, considering the experience level and industry standards. - Benefits: - Competitive salary plus benefits. - Paid vacation, sick, and personal days. - Education and personal development budget. - *ASSUMPTION:* These benefits are standard for a role of this level and demonstrate seoplus+'s commitment to employee well-being and professional growth. - Working Hours: 37.5 hours/week (Hybrid: 3 days/week in-office) - *ASSUMPTION:* This hybrid work arrangement offers flexibility while ensuring team collaboration and productivity. 📌 Applicant Insights 🔍 Company Context - Industry: Advertising & Marketing - *ASSUMPTION:* seoplus+ operates in the dynamic and ever-evolving world of digital marketing, focusing on generating leads and increasing sales for clients across various verticals. - Company Size: 51-200 employees - *ASSUMPTION:* As a mid-sized agency, seoplus+ offers the benefits of a close-knit team environment with ample opportunities for growth and collaboration. - Founded: 2012 - *ASSUMPTION:* With over a decade of experience, seoplus+ has established itself as a trusted digital marketing partner, serving clients globally and working with award-winning brands. - Company Description: seoplus+ is a digital marketing agency serving clients globally, offering a wide range of services, including Search Engine Optimization, Paid Search, Paid Social, Content Marketing, Digital Marketing, Web Design, Web Development, Graphic Design, Social Media Marketing, Digital PR, and Branding. - *ASSUMPTION:* seoplus+'s comprehensive suite of services enables it to provide tailored, integrated marketing solutions that drive results for clients. - Company Specialties: - Search Engine Optimization - Paid Search - Paid Social - Content Marketing - Digital Marketing - Web Design - Web Development - Graphic Design - Social Media Marketing - Digital PR - Branding - *ASSUMPTION:* These specialties reflect seoplus+'s expertise and commitment to providing comprehensive digital marketing solutions for clients. - Company Website: - *ASSUMPTION:* seoplus+'s website showcases its services, expertise, and commitment to helping clients grow their online presence and achieve their marketing goals. 📊 Role Analysis - Career Level: Early-career to Mid-level - *ASSUMPTION:* This role is suitable for recent graduates or early-career professionals looking to gain experience in digital PR and grow within the field. - Reporting Structure: The Digital PR Specialist will report directly to the Media Relations Strategist and work closely with the Digital PR team. - *ASSUMPTION:* This reporting structure ensures close collaboration and guidance from experienced team members, fostering professional growth and development. - Work Arrangement: Hybrid (3 days/week in-office) - *ASSUMPTION:* This hybrid work arrangement offers the best of both worlds, combining the flexibility of remote work with the collaboration and team-building opportunities of an in-office environment. - Growth Opportunities: - Seoplus+ offers professional development opportunities, including education and personal development budgets, to support employees' career growth and advancement. - *ASSUMPTION:* With a strong focus on mentorship and innovation, seoplus+ provides ample opportunities for employees to grow within the company and the digital marketing industry. 🌍 Location & Work Environment - Office Type: Hybrid (3 days/week in-office) - *ASSUMPTION:* seoplus+'s hybrid work arrangement offers flexibility while ensuring team collaboration and productivity. - Office Location(s): 825 Exhibition Way, Suite 209, Ottawa, Ontario K1S 5J3, CA - *ASSUMPTION:* seoplus+'s Ottawa office is conveniently located in the Lansdowne area, offering easy access to public transportation and nearby amenities. - Geographic Context: - Ottawa is the capital city of Canada, with a population of approximately 1 million people. - The city is known for its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and diverse neighborhoods. - *ASSUMPTION:* Ottawa's unique blend of urban and rural environments offers a high quality of life, with easy access to nature, arts, and entertainment. - Work Schedule: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (EST) with a one-hour lunch break - *ASSUMPTION:* seoplus+'s standard work schedule ensures a healthy work-life balance while accommodating team collaboration and productivity. 💼 Interview & Application Insights - Typical Process: 1. Submit your application through the provided link. 2. Complete an initial phone or video screening with the HR team. 3. Participate in a series of interviews with the Digital PR team and other stakeholders. 4. Complete a writing test or assignment to assess your skills and fit for the role. 5. Receive an offer and onboarding information. - *ASSUMPTION:* seoplus+'s structured interview process ensures a fair and thorough evaluation of candidates' skills and fit for the role. - Key Assessment Areas: 1. Writing and editing skills, with a focus on PR content creation and adaptation to various client voices and styles. 2. Media relations and outreach skills, including the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with media contacts and secure top-tier media placements. 3. Research and analytical skills, with a focus on identifying newsworthy angles and tracking campaign performance using PR analytics tools. 4. Team collaboration and communication skills, with a focus on working effectively with the Digital PR team and other stakeholders. - *ASSUMPTION:* These key assessment areas are critical for success in the Digital PR Specialist role and will be evaluated throughout the interview process. - Application Tips: 1. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience, skills, and enthusiasm for the role. 2. Showcase your understanding of seoplus+'s services, clients, and industry by demonstrating your familiarity with the company and its offerings. 3. Prepare for the writing test or assignment by reviewing PR best practices, industry trends, and seoplus+'s unique approach to digital PR. 4. Practice common interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses that demonstrate your fit for the role and alignment with seoplus+'s values and culture. - *ASSUMPTION:* By following these application tips, candidates can increase their chances of success in the interview process and secure the Digital PR Specialist role. - ATS Keywords: Digital PR, Public Relations, Media Relations, Media Outreach, Content Creation, Campaign Strategy, Journalism, Communications, Marketing, SEO, Social Media, Branding, Storytelling, Media Monitoring, Project Management, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Bilingual, Multilingual - *ASSUMPTION:* Including these ATS keywords in your resume and cover letter will help your application stand out and demonstrate your fit for the Digital PR Specialist role. 🛠️ Tools & Technologies - Media databases (e.g., Agility PR, MuckRack) - SEO tools (e.g., SEMrush, Ahrefs, Majestic) - Google Workspace - Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello) - HTML, CSS, or JavaScript - Media monitoring tools (e.g., Mention, Brand24) - *ASSUMPTION:* Familiarity with these tools and technologies is essential for success in the Digital PR Specialist role and will be evaluated throughout the interview process. 👔 Cultural Fit Considerations - Company Values: seoplus+ values innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to delivering measurable results for clients. The company fosters a positive, inclusive work environment that celebrates mentorship and professional development. - *ASSUMPTION:* Candidates who share these values and are passionate about driving results through innovative digital marketing strategies will thrive at seoplus+. - Work Style: seoplus+ values a proactive, self-starter attitude, strong communication skills, and a willingness to collaborate and learn from experienced team members. The company encourages a healthy work-life balance and offers flexible work arrangements to support employees' personal and professional growth. - *ASSUMPTION:* Candidates who embody these work style attributes will be well-suited to the Digital PR Specialist role and seoplus+'s dynamic work environment. - Self-Assessment Questions: 1. How do you stay up-to-date with current events, media trends, and industry developments, and how do you apply this knowledge to your work? 2. Describe a time when you had to adapt your communication style to suit a specific audience or client voice. How did you approach this challenge, and what was the outcome? 3. How do you prioritize and manage multiple projects and deadlines, and how do you ensure that you're delivering high-quality work under pressure? - *ASSUMPTION:* By reflecting on these self-assessment questions, candidates can gain insight into their strengths and areas for improvement, and demonstrate their fit for the Digital PR Specialist role and seoplus+'s work environment. ⚠️ Potential Challenges - Role-Specific Challenges: - Managing multiple client campaigns simultaneously, requiring strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively. - Adapting to tight deadlines and last-minute changes, demanding flexibility and resilience in a fast-paced agency environment. - Building and maintaining strong relationships with media contacts, requiring excellent communication skills and a deep understanding of the media landscape. - *ASSUMPTION:* These role-specific challenges demand a proactive, self-starter attitude and a strong commitment to delivering high-quality work under pressure. - Company-Specific Challenges: - Working in a mid-sized agency, candidates may face competition for resources and opportunities, requiring strong interpersonal skills and a willingness to collaborate and support team members. - *ASSUMPTION:* By embracing a positive, inclusive work environment and focusing on team success, candidates can overcome these company-specific challenges and contribute to seoplus+'s growth and development. - Industry-Specific Challenges: - Keeping up with the ever-evolving world of digital marketing, candidates must be proactive in staying informed about industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies. - *ASSUMPTION:* By demonstrating a strong commitment to lifelong learning and professional development, candidates can overcome this industry-specific challenge and remain competitive in the digital marketing landscape. 📈 Similar Roles Comparison - Role Differences: 1. Digital PR Specialist vs. Traditional PR Specialist: The Digital PR Specialist role focuses on digital channels and platforms, while the Traditional PR Specialist role emphasizes traditional media outlets and offline communication strategies. 2. Digital PR Specialist vs. Social Media Manager: The Digital PR Specialist role focuses on securing media placements and building relationships with journalists, while the Social Media Manager role focuses on creating and curating engaging content for social media platforms and managing online communities. - *ASSUMPTION:* These role differences reflect the unique focus and responsibilities of the Digital PR Specialist role, which demands a strong understanding of digital media and communication strategies. - Industry-Specific Context: - The digital marketing industry is dynamic and ever-evolving, with new platforms, trends, and best practices emerging rapidly. Candidates for the Digital PR Specialist role must be proactive in staying informed about industry developments and adapting their strategies accordingly. - *ASSUMPTION:* This industry-specific context demands a strong commitment to lifelong learning and professional development, enabling candidates to remain competitive in the digital marketing landscape. - Career Path Comparison: 1. Digital PR Specialist → Senior Digital PR Specialist → Digital PR Manager → Director of Digital PR 2. Digital PR Specialist → Content Marketing Specialist → Senior Content Marketing Specialist → Director of Content Marketing - *ASSUMPTION:* These career path comparisons demonstrate the diverse opportunities available to Digital PR Specialists, who can specialize in digital PR or transition into related roles, such as content marketing, as their careers progress. 📝 Sample Projects - Client: Tech Startup - *Project:* Launching a new product and generating buzz in tech and mainstream media outlets. - *Strategy:* Develop a compelling narrative around the product's innovative features and benefits, and pitch the story to tech journalists, bloggers, and influencers. Secure media placements in top-tier tech publications and mainstream media outlets, driving product awareness and adoption. - *ASSUMPTION:* This sample project demonstrates the Digital PR Specialist's ability to create compelling narratives, build relationships with media contacts, and secure top-tier media placements to drive product awareness and adoption. - Client: Retail Brand - *Project:* Managing a product recall and mitigating brand damage. - *Strategy:* Develop a transparent and empathetic communication strategy, addressing the recall openly and outlining the steps taken to resolve the issue. Engage with media outlets to ensure accurate and fair coverage, and monitor social media channels to address customer concerns and maintain brand reputation. - *ASSUMPTION:* This sample project highlights the Digital PR Specialist's ability to manage crises, develop effective communication strategies, and mitigate brand damage in the face of challenging situations. - Client: Non-profit Organization - *Project:* Raising awareness and funds for a charitable cause through a targeted media campaign. - *Strategy:* Develop a compelling narrative around the organization's mission and impact, and pitch the story to media outlets, influencers, and donors. Secure media placements, engage with donors, and leverage social media channels to drive awareness and fundraising efforts. - *ASSUMPTION:* This sample project showcases the Digital PR Specialist's ability to create compelling narratives, build relationships with media contacts and donors, and drive awareness and fundraising efforts for charitable causes. ❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview - Role-Specific Questions: 1. How do you approach developing a compelling narrative for a client, and how do you tailor this narrative to different media outlets and audiences? 2. Can you describe a time when you had to adapt your communication style to suit a specific client voice or media outlet, and how did you ensure the message remained on-brand and on-message? 3. How do you prioritize and manage multiple client campaigns simultaneously, and how do you ensure that you're delivering high-quality work under pressure? - *ASSUMPTION:* These role-specific questions enable candidates to demonstrate their understanding of the Digital PR Specialist role and its unique demands, showcasing their skills and fit for the position. - Company-Specific Questions: 1. How does seoplus+ support the professional development and growth of its employees, and what opportunities are available for career advancement within the company? 2. Can you describe the company's culture and work environment, and how does seoplus+ foster a positive and inclusive work environment for its employees? 3. How does seoplus+ approach collaboration and teamwork, and what opportunities are available for employees to work on cross-functional projects and initiatives? - *ASSUMPTION:* These company-specific questions enable candidates to gain insight into seoplus+'s culture, values, and work environment, and demonstrate their fit for the Digital PR Specialist role and the company's unique offerings. - Industry-Specific Questions: 1. How do you stay up-to-date with current events, media trends, and industry developments, and how do you apply this knowledge to your work as a Digital PR Specialist? 2. Can you describe a time when you had to adapt your communication strategy to account for a significant change in the media landscape or industry trends, and how did you ensure the success of your campaign despite these challenges? 3. How do you approach building and maintaining strong relationships with media contacts, and how do you ensure that you're providing value to both the client and the media outlet throughout the campaign process? - *ASSUMPTION:* These industry-specific questions enable candidates to demonstrate their understanding of the digital marketing landscape and their ability to adapt their communication strategies to account for industry trends and challenges. 📌 Next Steps for Applicants To apply for this position: 1. Submit your application through the provided link: 2. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience, skills, and enthusiasm for the role. 3. Prepare for the writing test or assignment by reviewing PR best practices, industry trends, and seoplus+'s unique approach to digital PR. 4. Practice common interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses that demonstrate your fit for the role and alignment with seoplus+'s values and culture. 5. Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to express your interest in the role and inquire about the status of your application. 6. If invited to an interview, arrive early, dress appropriately, and bring any necessary materials, such as extra copies of your resume or portfolio pieces. 7. After the interview, send a thank-you note to express your appreciation for the opportunity to interview and reiterate your interest in the role. ⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.