August 2025

Sentiment in the communications field is marked by both job insecurity and a lack of fulfillment. Career surveys show that public relations specialists, a core component of the communications industry, rate their career happiness as "below average." Many are particularly unhappy with compensation, feeling that their pay does not reflect the demanding nature of their work. While there is a general consensus that communication professionals find their personalities well-suited to the work, they often find the job itself not very meaningful. Often, workers in this industry, depending on the company and specific field/market of communications, feel that their abilities to make a difference are limited to the overall corporate message that their employer dictates. Altruism virtually does not exist when companies are swayed by shareholders, boards, and advertisers. The ongoing layoffs, especially those linked to AI restructuring, have created a sense of anxiety and a need to constantly upgrade to remain competitive in a rapidly changing field.

The communications sector is showing signs of a slowdown and is undergoing a significant transformation. A recent report from The Conference Board's Employment Trends Index saw a slight decline in July to its lowest point since October 2024, indicating a stable but cautious labor market. Layoffs in the broader technology sector, which often includes communications and media roles, are continuing. A key driver for these job cuts is the strategic pivot towards artificial intelligence. For example, a major software and services company recently announced layoffs as part of a move to integrate AI across its operations, signaling a broader industry trend of re-evaluating traditional roles in favor of AI-focused talent.