By Emily Leadbitter, intern at Ideas Shop

Three weeks ago, I started my internship with Ideas Shop. I had no idea what to expect and had a serious dose of nerves as I puffed my way up their stairs on the first day. Being a geeky new graduate meant that yeah, sure, I had all the textbook stuff under my belt, but no idea how things actually worked in the ‘real world’ of Public Relations. 

These last few weeks has given me a taste of this.

What I like best about the Ideas Shop crew is their working culture. It is an environment in which all ideas are encouraged and everyone gets a chance to contribute, even if it isn’t concerning their own client. It is this sort of openness and unique ability to stand out from the rest that makes them such a sought after firm. Even though I was the fresh intern, I still felt that I could contribute and have my say and I was made to feel like my view counted. The stereotypical view of PR, being an expert in ‘spin doctoring’ is certainly blown out of the water by these guys and the personal relationships that they maintain with their clients, makes them stand out from the rest. 

I realize that when you finish study and you are thinking, where to next?, it is important to think, EXPERIENCE. The fact that I was able to do a short internship has proved to be so essential at a time like this when the job market is at an all time low and employers are looking for experience. 

I was given the chance to do some writing, media pitching, editing and assisting on major projects, which yes, meant sweaty palms at times, but has taught me a lot in the space of three weeks. 

Having provided assistance on a few of their current jobs and having the opportunity to do some work on my own during my time here, I now feel like I can offer more to my employer when I score my first job. It is one thing to read and study PR and communications from a textbook, but it is another to see how these skills are put into action.

The humorous workplace and continuous flow of banter here at Ideas Shop is a clear indication that everyone enjoys what they do and feels like they are a valued member of the company, as I also did during my time.

So numerous morning teas and Monday lunches later, I feel like I have been given a unique opportunity to get involved and become a part of a forward thinking Public Relations firm. It has clarified for me where I want to head in terms of my career. Ideas Shop has also given me insight into the creative side of Public Relations. 

UPDATE: Since writing this Emily has got a full time job at Inland Revenue. Good luck Emily!