What is a community relations coordinator?
A community relations coordinator is basically the bridge between a company and the people it deals with. They work hard to make sure the community likes and trusts the company. This job is super important today because everyone shares information online super fast. If a company looks good to the public, more people will support it and it will last longer. These coordinators work everywhere—from charities to big global companies.
Duties and responsibilities
Community relations coordinators do a bunch of stuff to help their company get along with the community. They plan and run events like charity fundraisers or meetings where people can talk about what’s going on in the area. These events help the company show they care about people’s concerns.
They also talk a lot—like giving presentations, writing news releases, and posting on social media. When there’s a crisis, they help keep the company’s image looking good. They work with other teams in the company, like human resources and marketing, to make sure everything they do fits the company’s goals.
Work environment
Community relations coordinators usually work in an office, but they’re not just stuck behind a desk. They spend a lot of time out and about, running events, meeting community leaders, and doing outreach work. Their job is pretty flexible—they might be in meetings one day and at an event the next. It can be a bit stressful, but it’s also exciting, especially if you like working with people.
Typical work hours
They generally work full-time, Monday to Friday, but they also have to go to events in the evenings or on weekends. So, they need to be okay with a flexible schedule that might include some travel.
How to become a community relations coordinator
Want to be the person who helps a company get along with people and look good? Here’s how you can become a community relations coordinator:
Step 1: Get a college degree
Start by going to college and getting a bachelor’s degree. It’s best to study public relations, communications, journalism, marketing, or something similar. These subjects teach you how to talk to people, plan events, and handle media stuff—all important for this job.
Step 2: Gain real experience
Learning from books is cool, but doing the real thing is cooler. Try to get internships or part-time jobs where you can work on community events, marketing, or anything where you talk to lots of different people. This experience shows you’re ready to jump into the job for real.
Step 3: Be a great communicator
This job is all about talking and getting along with people. You can get better at this by volunteering in your community, joining clubs where you have to speak in public, or taking classes on how to deal with disagreements. Being good at writing helps too, so maybe try writing articles or blog posts.
Step 4: Consider getting certified
While it’s not a must, having a certificate in something like public relations or community development can make you stand out. It shows you’re serious about this career and know your stuff.
Step 5: Apply for jobs
Once you have your degree, some experience, and great communication skills, start applying for jobs. Make sure your resume and cover letter show off everything you’ve learned and done. Also, get out there and meet people in the industry by going to job fairs or joining online professional groups.
Step 6: Take online courses
The world changes fast, and so do the best ways to talk to communities. Keep your skills sharp by taking online courses. For example, check out courses on corporate social responsibility on Udemy or learn more about public relations and conflict management on Coursera. These courses can help you keep up with the latest in community relations.
How much do community relations coordinators make?
A community relations coordinator’s compensation largely depends on several key factors. The nature and size of their employer, typically a non-profit or corporate organization, often play a critical role in shaping their income. The geographic location also plays a factor, as some regions may offer higher compensation due to the cost of living or the significance of community relations activities in that area.
Their level of education and professional experience can also impact salary, with more experienced coordinators or those with advanced degrees often receiving higher pay.
Highest paying industries
- Technology Companies: $67,390
- Healthcare: $64,850
- Finance and Insurance: $63,920
- State Government: $60,540
- Education: $58,760
Highest paying states
- California: $75,650
- New York: $73,320
- Massachusetts: $69,760
- Washington: $68,280
- Connecticut: $66,540
The average national salary for a Community Relations Coordinator is:
$52,820
Browse community relations coordinator salary data by market
Types of community relations coordinators
Community relations coordinators can work in different places and their job can look a bit different depending on where they are. Here’s a breakdown of the main types:
Non-profit community relations coordinator
These coordinators work for charities and similar organizations. They help create good relationships between the non-profit and the people it helps. They plan events, tell people about what the charity does, and try to get more people involved and supportive.
Corporate community relations coordinator
In a company, these coordinators help make sure the company has a good image in the public’s eyes. They work on projects that show the company cares about the community, like charity work or local events. They also help communicate important messages from the company to the public.
Healthcare community relations coordinator
These coordinators work in hospitals or clinics and their job is to make sure people trust and understand what’s going on in healthcare. They might organize health fairs or workshops, work with the media to share health tips, and talk with doctors and nurses to figure out what the community needs.
Educational community relations coordinator
In schools or universities, these coordinators help connect the institution with the people living around it. They might organize programs for parents, handle concerns from the community about the school, and help everyone feel like they’re part of the school’s community.
Government community relations coordinator
These coordinators work for the government, either local or national, and keep people updated about what the government is doing. They put together programs that get people involved, work with the media to share information, and help answer any questions people might have about government projects.
Top skills for community relations coordinators
If you’re thinking about becoming a community relations coordinator, here are some key skills you’ll need to rock at this job:
Interpersonal skills
Being good at working with different types of people is super important. You need to be able to get along well with others, understand them, and help them work together with your organization. This makes everyone feel included and respected.
Communication skills
You have to be awesome at sharing information, both when you write and talk. It’s all about making sure people understand what your organization is doing and that they trust you. Being clear and friendly can make a big difference.
Organizational skills
Coordinators have to juggle a lot of tasks at once, like planning events and keeping track of different projects. Being organized means you won’t forget anything important and everything will go smoothly.
Problem-solving skills
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Maybe an event faces some issues or people aren’t happy about something. Being good at figuring out quick solutions helps keep the peace and keeps things moving forward.
Empathy and cultural awareness
It’s really important to understand and care about what people in different communities feel and need. This helps you connect with them better and make sure everyone feels valued and understood.
Event planning skills
A big part of this job is putting together events for the community. You need to be good at planning these events, dealing with all the little details, and making sure everyone has a good time.
Networking skills
Being able to make new friends and keep in touch with people who can help your organization is key. The more people you know, the more you can do for your community.
Looking for a new job?
Browse our national database of community relations coordinator job openings and apply today
Community relations coordinator career path
Community relations coordinators have lots of opportunities to grow in their careers, whether in businesses, government, or non-profits. They start by helping companies or organizations connect with people and communities, and from there, they can move up to bigger roles.
Moving up in the same field
Many coordinators work their way up to becoming managers or directors. In these roles, they lead a team, plan big events, and come up with strategies to improve how the organization connects with people and other groups.
Switching to public relations or marketing
Some coordinators switch to working in public relations or marketing. This could mean creating plans to help an organization communicate better with the public, like writing press releases or managing the company’s public image. In marketing, they might design campaigns that promote products or services and analyze what customers like.
Working in corporate social responsibility
Another cool option is to go into corporate social responsibility. This job is about making sure a company’s actions are good for society and the environment. People in this role work on projects like making the company more eco-friendly or supporting social causes.
Government or non-profit roles
There’s also a chance to move into government or non-profit work, like becoming a community development director or community services manager. These jobs involve making policies, advocating for social justice, leading community programs, and generally working to make life better for people in the community.
Similar job titles
Community relations coordinator position trends and outlook
- Digital communication is key: Nowadays, coordinators need to be pros at using social media, email, and online forums. These tools let them talk to the community more often and directly.
- Being open and responsible: People expect companies to be open about what they do and to act responsibly. Community relations coordinators need to show off the good things their organization does, like charity work and supporting local projects.
- Focus on diversity and inclusion: It’s super important for organizations to embrace diversity and make sure everyone feels included. Community relations coordinators help by organizing events that celebrate diversity and making sure their organization’s actions are fair and welcoming to all.
Employment projections
The need for talented coordinators is expected to grow quite a bit. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in public relations and fundraising, which include community relations, are predicted to grow by 8% through 2031. That’s faster than a lot of other jobs. As more companies realize how important it is to have a good relationship with the public and to maintain a positive image, especially online, they’ll need more skilled coordinators to handle these tasks.
Community relations coordinator career tips
Build strong relationships
The heart of a community relations coordinator’s job is to build strong relationships. You’ll need to connect with lots of different people both inside and outside your organization. The better your relationships, the more positive the community will feel about your organization. Make sure you’re comfortable talking to a variety of people and really good at keeping those relationships strong.
Keep up with your community
It’s super important to know what’s happening in your community. Keep up with the latest news and get involved in local events and discussions. The more you know, the better you can spot opportunities or problems for your organization, and the more credible you’ll appear to everyone.
Communicate clearly
Whether you’re talking to people in the community, your bosses, or the media, you need to get your message across clearly and persuasively. Learn how to adjust your words depending on who you’re talking to and what you’re talking about. Being a great communicator can really boost how people see your organization.
Grow your network
Knowing other professionals in your field can really help you out. Networking might lead to new projects, ideas, or partnerships for your organization. Try to meet other coordinators or professionals in related fields like public relations or marketing. Join groups like:
- International Association of Business Communicators (IABC)
- Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)
- The American Marketing Association (AMA)
Never stop learning
Things change fast, so staying updated with the latest skills and trends in your field is key. Try to keep learning new things through courses, webinars, or reading up on your industry. Websites like Coursera or LinkedIn Learning have lots of great courses. Also, consider getting certifications in your field to show you’re serious about your career and to open up more job opportunities.
Consider certifications
Getting certified in areas related to community relations or public relations can boost your career. These certifications show you’re committed and know your stuff. Just make sure to check what you need to qualify for these certifications before you start.
Where the community relations coordinator jobs are
Top employers
- Amazon
- Coca-Cola
- Microsoft
Top states
- California
- New York
- Washington
- Texas
- Illinois
Top job sites
- zengig
- Indeed
- Monster
- SimplyHired
FAQs
What does a community relations coordinator do?
They foster positive relations between their hiring organization and the surrounding community, including developing community outreach programs, organizing events, liaising with local businesses and groups, and responding to local concerns regarding the organization’s activities.
What qualifications are needed to work as a community relations coordinator?
A bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, or a related field is often required. Organizations typically seek candidates with significant experience in public relations, communications, or a similar role. Strong written and verbal communication skills are also essential, as are managing and coordinating various projects simultaneously.
What skills are necessary to be successful in a community relations coordinator role?
Beyond strong communication abilities, a community relations coordinator should have excellent organization skills, be adept at problem-solving, and be capable of working well under pressure. Engaging interpersonal skills, sensitivity to community issues, and cultural diversity generally lead to success in this role. It also helps to be proficient in the latest communication technologies and social media platforms.
What is a typical day like for a community relations coordinator?
It varies, largely dictated by the events and activities planned for the day. Common tasks include meeting with local community group leaders, planning and coordinating events, drafting press releases or social media posts, and sometimes attending community meetings or events. Schedules can be unpredictable, especially when coordinating events or responding to unexpected community situations.
What is the employment outlook for a community relations coordinator?
Employment opportunities are expected to grow steadily. Organizations increasingly recognize the value of maintaining positive relations with their communities, which can directly influence their public image and, ultimately, their success. With excellent skills and appropriate qualifications, the chances of securing a community relations coordinator role are fairly promising.
What are the typical working hours for community relations coordinators?
In a standard setting, community relations coordinators usually work standard office hours from Monday to Friday. However, the nature of the role can sometimes demand work during evenings, weekends, or holidays, particularly when organizing, attending, or overseeing events outside regular business hours.
Are there specific software or tools that a community relations coordinator should be familiar with?
They typically use software for project management, scheduling, and communication. Familiarity with social media platforms is also essential, as these are often used to reach out to and engage with the community. Some coordinators may also use public relations software to manage press releases and monitor their organization’s public image.
What challenges might a community relations coordinator encounter in their role?
Challenges can include dealing with adverse community situations or concerns, managing conflicts of interest, meeting event target dates, or managing disparate expectations from both the employer and the community. Successfully navigating these challenges requires excellent conflict resolution skills, patience, and a solid understanding of the community’s needs and interests.
Can a community relations coordinator work remotely?
Although some tasks performed by community relations coordinators can be completed remotely, most roles involve active involvement within the community, which typically necessitates a physical presence. They often meet with local individuals and organizations, visit community locations, and attend local events, all of which are challenging to conduct remotely.
Is being a community relations coordinator stressful?
Stress level can, and likely will, fluctuate. Balancing the expectations and interests of the community and the organization, meeting tight deadlines, or managing complex events can all contribute to stress. However, stress levels can be managed with efficient work practices, strong interpersonal skills, and a successful work-life balance.
What other roles might a community relations coordinator consider progressing to?
Community relations coordinators can grow into more senior positions within community relations or communications, such as a senior coordinator, community relations manager, or even a community relations director. Other roles they could consider may include communications manager, public relations manager, or corporate social responsibility manager.