The Struggle of PR Professionals: Burnout and Work-Life Balance

A recent report by Muck Rack sheds light on the challenges faced by PR professionals in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. According to the report, a staggering 50% of PR professionals have contemplated leaving their jobs in the past year, citing burnout as a major contributing factor.

The Stress Factor

The survey, which involved over 2,000 public relations professionals, revealed that PR professionals rated their stress levels at an alarming 7 on a scale of 1 to 10. In particular, those working at agencies reported significantly higher stress levels, with 75% of respondents rating their stress above 5, compared to 67% of their counterparts at brands.

Heavy workloads, tight deadlines, and the ubiquitous feeling of “always being on” were identified as the primary sources of stress for PR professionals. Interestingly, PR professionals in C-suite roles were found to be less likely to consider leaving their jobs due to burnout or exhaustion.

The Vacation Dilemma

Despite being entitled to a full allotment of vacation days, PR professionals tend to underutilize them, with many reporting that work often encroaches on their time off. A shocking 88% of respondents admitted to being interrupted by work while on vacation, highlighting the challenge of disconnecting from work even during leisure time.

Furthermore, nearly all respondents (96%) reported difficulty in “switching off” after work, underscoring the pervasive nature of job-related stress among PR professionals.

Social Support and Salary Insights

On a positive note, the survey revealed that a significant majority of PR professionals believe that their workplace would offer support if they encountered mental health issues. Approximately 72% of respondents expressed confidence in receiving support from their coworkers, while 60% expected support from their company leaders.

When it comes to salaries, the survey found that the average annual salary for PR professionals stands at $90,000. Professionals working at brands command a higher average salary of $110,000, compared to $83,500 for those at agencies. These figures align closely with data from the Census Bureau, which places the average PR salary at $94,000 per year.

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