NTERNSHIP TITLE: US – Media Relations Intern
INTERN WORKSITE LOCATION: Portland, OR or Washington, DC
DATES OF INTERNSHIP: June 2016 – September 2016 (dates flexible)
LENGTH OF INTERNSHIP: 6 weeks, extendable
FUNDING AVAILABLE FOR THE INTERNSHIP:
- US Internships: The internship is unpaid; however the Media Relations team is willing to work with university requirements to allow credit for internships.
• Mercy Corps responsibilities
Mercy Corps will provide:
Access to Mercy Corps online tools
Workspace within Mercy Corps Headquarters office in Portland, OR or Washington, DC
Any materials required for the completion of this internship
• Intern responsibilities
Intern will remain responsible for:
Accommodation and living expenses
Transport to and from the office
Maintaining their personal computer which will be used for the purposes of the internship
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization powered by the belief that a better world is possible. In disaster, in hardship, in more than 40 countries around the world, we partner to put bold solutions into action—helping people triumph over adversity and build stronger communities from within. Now, and for the future. Since 1979, Mercy Corps has provided $2.8 billion in assistance to 177 million people in 115 countries. Today our worldwide team of 4,000 is on the ground in more than 40 countries, living and working with people facing the world’s toughest challenges.
The Media Relations team serves as the primary conduit of all interactions between Mercy Corps and the media. The team of six works from three different cities and covers international and local media outlets. The Media Relations Intern will be tasked with delivering daily reports on peer organizations’ media activity and industry trends, completing Vocus categorization, identifying media opportunities and conducting research and media (traditional and social) scans on various topics as requested.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Intern will become familiar with how to use Factiva and Vocus. Intern will gain experience working in a fast-paced office setting with a high-performing team.
DELIVERABLES:
• Daily media scans and coverage analyses on peer organizations and various topics/themes
• Survey, track and report on trends in mainstream and social media
• Research and compile editorial calendars; identify media opportunities
• Produce media lists on assigned topics
• Vocus categorization
• Written pieces, including blogs and reporter backgrounders
IDEAL CANDIDATE SHOULD POSSESS THE FOLLOWING QUALIFICATIONS:
• Some college experience/relevant courses
• Interest in media relations
• Ability to learn and utilize new online research tools quickly
• Interest in humanitarian and development issues
• Demonstrated solid writing, editing and researching skills
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize in a fast-paced work environment
• Solid computer skills: must be able to work effectively and accurately with MS Word, Excel, email and internet applications
• Flexible work attitude: able to work productively in a team environment and independently
LIVING CONDITIONS: Housing not provided for this internship.
Mercy Corps interns and volunteers represent the agency both during and outside of work hours and are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner and respect local laws, customs and MC’s policies, procedures, and values at all times and in all in-country venues.
APPLICATION PROCESS:
Candidates interested in this internship should submit a resume and astatement of interest. In your statement, you are encouraged to discuss any experiences related relevant to the projects outlined. You may wish to describe your career interests (specifically as they relate to communications, policy and advocacy, humanitarian aid, or development) and discuss your previous work and educational experiences demonstrating these interests. Your application will be reviewed by the hiring team within 3 weeks of submission and shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly for interviews. All applicants will receive notification once a decision has been made.
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