About Blooming Communications
Blooming Communications is a boutique public relations and strategic communications agency focused on helping brands and executives grow authentically. Founded by Caitlin Gardner, a seasoned PR executive with over 20 years of experience, Blooming Communications specializes in franchise development, executive thought leadership, media relations and brand positioning. We work closely with multi-unit franchises, emerging brands, and business leaders to elevate their visibility and reputation through strategic PR and communications.
Position Overview
Blooming Communications is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Public Relations Intern to support media relations, pitch development, and speaking opportunity outreach. This is a remote position, ideal for a junior or rising senior majoring in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or a related field at the University level. Preference for University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications or Innovation Academy students.
The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of AP style, excellent communication skills, passion for research, writing and storytelling, and a proactive approach to client deliverables. This role offers hands-on experience in PR strategy, media outreach, and content creation, providing valuable industry experience in a professional and supportive environment.
Key Responsibilities
Media Relations:
- Research and develop targeted media lists.
- Draft and refine media pitches using AP style.
- Conduct media outreach via email, phone, and social media.
- Monitor media coverage and compile client reports.
Pitch Development:
- Write compelling pitches for media, podcasts, and speaking opportunities.
- Customize pitches to align with individual journalist and media outlet interests.
- Track outreach efforts and follow up with media contacts.
Speaking and Award Opportunity Vetting:
- Research speaking engagements and industry events, including for founder, Caitlin Gardner.
- Identify relevant award opportunities for clients and assist with submissions.
- Manage and track deadlines for speaking and award applications.
Social Media and Content Support:
- Draft and schedule social media content aligned with client and agency strategies.
- Monitor social engagement and identify opportunities for media coverage.
- Assist with content creation for LinkedIn, including graphics and video clips.
Research and Administrative Support:
- Conduct research on industry trends, competitors, and media opportunities.
- Develop PowerPoint presentations and reports for client deliverables in Canva for easy sharing and collaboration.
- Maintain organized tracking of media contacts, pitches, and client deliverables.
- To have consistency for client work, we request that you are available at least 2-3 consecutive hours each weekday between 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. ET. Other hours can be flexible, but we request you communicate proactively and often.
Creative Thinking and Problem Solving:
- Contribute to brainstorming sessions for media angles and creative campaigns.
- Offer innovative ideas to strengthen media outreach and client messaging.
- Identify emerging media trends and recommend strategic adjustments.
Qualifications
- Currently enrolled as a junior or rising senior at the University of Florida majoring in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or a related field.
- Strong understanding of AP style and professional writing standards.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Highly organized and able to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
- Comfortable reaching out to media and following up with contacts.
- Experience using social media platforms (LinkedIn, X, Instagram) for business purposes.
- Strong research skills and ability to synthesize information quickly.
- Proficient in PowerPoint and comfortable creating professional presentations.
- Creative thinker who can identify and act on media opportunities.
- Proactive, detail-oriented, and able to work independently.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with video editing and social media content creation (Canva, Adobe Premiere, CapCut, etc.).
- Photography skills and an eye for visual content.
- Familiarity with media databases (e.g., Cision) is a plus but not required.
- Comfort with cold calling for new media relationships or to research speaking opportunities via phone.
- Blooming Communications is headquartered in the Tampa, Fla. area.
Compensation
- $15–$18 per hour based on experience.
- Flexible remote work environment designed to support learning and professional growth.
Hours: 15–20 hours per week (Can work from anywhere but must be available all summer and must be available at least 2-3 consecutive hours each weekday between 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. ET.)
What You’ll Gain
- At the end of the internship you will have a comprehensive portfolio to showcase all of your work.
- Hands-on experience in media relations, executive thought leadership, and PR strategy.
- Direct mentorship from Caitlin Gardner, a Certified Franchise Executive and PR industry expert.
- Opportunity to work with national and emerging brands in the business sectors.
- A flexible, remote work environment that encourages growth and creativity.
- Guaranteed 15 hours each week, possibly more based on client work load.
How to Apply
To apply, please send your resume, a cover letter, and a writing sample (press release or media pitch preferred) to info@bloomingcomm.com with the subject line: PR Intern Application – [Your Name]
Blooming Communications is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply.