Public Relations Manager Onboarding Checklist

Public Relations Manager Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Public Relations Manager starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Marketing onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Public Relations Manager, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Public Relations Manager onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Public Relations Manager Onboarding Checklist

1. Introduction to the company: The new Public Relations Manager should be provided with a comprehensive introduction to the company, including its history, mission, values, and organizational structure. This task is typically performed by the Human Resources department or a designated company representative.

2. Familiarization with company policies and procedures: The new PR Manager should be given a thorough overview of the company’s policies and procedures, including those related to communication, media relations, crisis management, and social media usage. This task is typically performed by the Human Resources department or the PR department.

3. Introduction to key stakeholders: The new PR Manager should be introduced to key stakeholders within the company, such as senior executives, department heads, and team members. This will help them understand the organizational dynamics and build relationships necessary for effective PR management. This task is typically performed by the PR department or a designated supervisor.

4. Review of current PR strategies and campaigns: The new PR Manager should be provided with an overview of the company’s current PR strategies and ongoing campaigns. This will help them understand the existing PR initiatives and identify areas for improvement or adjustment. This task is typically performed by the PR department or a designated supervisor.

5. Training on media relations: The new PR Manager should receive training on effective media relations, including how to build relationships with journalists, pitch stories, and handle media inquiries. This task is typically performed by the PR department or a designated media relations specialist.

6. Familiarization with industry trends and competitors: The new PR Manager should be encouraged to research and familiarize themselves with industry trends, competitors, and best practices in PR. This will help them stay informed and develop effective PR strategies. This task can be performed individually by the new PR Manager, with guidance from the PR department or a designated supervisor.

7. Introduction to PR tools and software: The new PR Manager should be trained on the various PR tools and software used by the company, such as media monitoring platforms, press release distribution services, and social media management tools. This task is typically performed by the PR department or a designated IT specialist.

8. Review of crisis management protocols: The new PR Manager should be briefed on the company’s crisis management protocols, including how to handle potential PR crises, communicate with stakeholders during emergencies, and manage reputation risks. This task is typically performed by the PR department or a designated crisis management team.

9. Collaboration with other departments: The new PR Manager should be encouraged to collaborate with other departments, such as marketing, sales, and customer service, to ensure alignment and integration of PR efforts with overall business objectives. This task is typically facilitated by the PR department or a designated supervisor.

10. Performance expectations and goal setting: The new PR Manager should have a clear understanding of their performance expectations and be involved in setting goals and objectives for their role. This task is typically performed by the PR department or a designated supervisor in collaboration with the new PR Manager.

11. Ongoing professional development opportunities: The new PR Manager should be informed about ongoing professional development opportunities, such as industry conferences, webinars, and training programs, to enhance their skills and knowledge in PR. This task is typically performed by the PR department or the Human Resources department.

12. Introduction to company culture and values: The new PR Manager should be introduced to the company’s culture and values, including its approach to diversity and inclusion, sustainability, and corporate social responsibility. This task is typically performed by the Human Resources department or a designated company representative.

13. Access to necessary resources and tools: The new PR Manager should be provided with access to necessary resources and tools, such as media databases, contact lists, and PR templates, to facilitate their work. This task is typically performed by the PR department or the IT department.

14. Regular check-ins and feedback sessions: The new PR Manager should have regular check-ins and feedback sessions with their supervisor or a designated mentor to discuss their progress, address any challenges, and provide guidance for improvement. This task is typically performed by the PR department or a designated supervisor.

15. Integration into the team: The new PR Manager should be integrated into the PR team and given opportunities to collaborate, contribute, and build relationships with team members. This can be facilitated by the PR department or a designated team lead

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Public Relations Manager checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Public Relations Manager up to speed and working well in your Marketing team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.