Strategic Communications and Public Affairs Fellow

As a Strategic Communications and Public Affairs Fellow at Avōq, your key responsibilities will include assisting with core tasks such as in-depth research, public affairs campaign management, and media relations. You'll have the opportunity to prepare reports, support client requests, and engage in various office duties while collaborating directly with senior staff to meet client needs.

To apply for the Strategic Communications and Public Affairs Fellow position at Avōq, you should ideally be a current college senior or recent graduate with 1-3 years of relevant experience. Strong writing and research skills, an interest in digital advocacy, and familiarity with current events and policies are essential. Experience with digital media and campaigns is a big plus.

The Fellowship program at Avōq typically lasts six months, during which you will gain hands-on experience in public affairs. Depending on your performance and department availability, there is a possibility for extension beyond the initial timeframe and even promotion based on the quality of your work.

At Avōq, you can expect a dynamic and inclusive work culture that values diversity and collaboration. We are committed to providing equal opportunities for all team members, and we actively foster a sense of belonging and value in our workplace, especially for those from historically underrepresented groups.

Avōq offers a rich benefits package for its Strategic Communications and Public Affairs Fellows, including 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid parental leave, and flexible hybrid work arrangements. You’ll also enjoy generous paid time off, 12 company holidays per year, and 401(k) contributions to support your financial security.

When faced with multiple projects as a Strategic Communications and Public Affairs Fellow, I prioritize by assessing deadlines and the importance of each task. I typically create a to-do list and categorize projects based on urgency and impact, which allows me to focus on what's most crucial first, ensuring timely and high-quality outcomes.

Yes! In my last role, I conducted research on public sentiment regarding a new policy initiative. I gathered data using surveys and social media analysis, compiling findings into a comprehensive report that helped shape our communication strategies. This project was successful in enhancing stakeholder engagement and clarifying our messaging.

For effective public relations, I utilize a mix of traditional and digital tools. This includes media outreach platforms for tracking engagement, analytics software to measure campaign success, and social media for real-time communication. Additionally, I always focus on relationship-building with journalists and influencers to ensure our messages are accurately conveyed.

I stay informed about current events and policies by subscribing to reputable news outlets, following relevant Twitter accounts, and engaging with professional associations in the field. I also participate in webinars and discussions to deepen my understanding of trending topics and their implications.

I am familiar with various digital advocacy techniques, including social media campaigns, email marketing, and content creation for blogs and video platforms. I also have experience with social media management tools that help optimize engagement and track audience responses, ensuring my advocacy efforts reach the intended audience effectively.

I have significant experience crafting content for diverse audiences, from academic research papers to engaging blog posts and social media updates. I tailor my writing style to suit the audience's needs and preferences, emphasizing clear communication while remaining professional and informative across all formats.

Creating a strategic messaging plan begins with understanding the audience and key objectives. I research the target demographic and their values, then outline the core messages, identify effective channels, and establish a timeline for communication. Collaboration with team members ensures that we align with broader campaign goals.

One challenge I faced was opposition to a public policy initiative. To overcome this, I conducted thorough research to understand the concerns and crafted targeted messaging that addressed misconceptions. Engaging with community stakeholders through forums and discussions helped to build support and mitigate resistance.

Essential skills for a Strategic Communications and Public Affairs Fellow include strong writing and research skills, effective communication, adaptability, and a strategic mindset. Being proactive, organized, and having a genuine interest in public affairs also greatly contribute to success in this role.

I'm drawn to Avōq for its commitment to innovation through inclusive collaboration and its focus on diversity. The opportunity to work with a talented team on impactful public affairs initiatives aligns perfectly with my career ambitions and passion for creating positive change in the community.