I will graduate from college in several months and plan a career in public relations. After several interviews, I receive two job offers.
One is with a high-technology company that makes ink-jet printers and scanners for the consumer market. The corporate communications department has about 20 professionals, and it is customary for beginners to start in employee publications or product publicity. Later, with more experience, I might be assigned to do marketing communications for a product group or work in a specialized area such as investor relations, governmental affairs, or even community relations.
The second job offer is from a local office of a large, national public relations firm. I would begin as an assistant account executive and work on several accounts, including a chain of fast-food restaurants and an insurance company. The jobs pay about the same but the corporation offers better insurance and medical plans.
Taking into consideration the pros and cons of working for public relations firms versus corporations, what job would best fit my abilities and preferences?