Communications Intern (Summer through December)

Business Unit Description

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, with a membership of nearly 38 million that helps people turn their goals and dreams into 'Real Possibilities' by changing the way America defines aging. With staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, AARP works to strengthen communities and promote the issues that matter most to families such as healthcare security, financial security and personal fulfillment. AARP also advocates for individuals in the marketplace by selecting products and services of high quality and value to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the world's largest circulation magazine, AARP The Magazine and AARP.

Integrated Communications and Marketing (ICM) is a multimedia, service-focused communications and marketing operation that leads in shaping the impression of AARP by providing communications planning, marketing, support and execution for AARP's strategic business units.
Summary

Are you a self-starter who is comfortable working in a fast-moving atmosphere without a lot of oversight?

Do you have the ability to handle confidential information with complete discretion, and are you capable of meeting deadlines?

AARP's Communications Strategy Group (CSG) & External Relations departments are looking for a well-organized individual with a demonstrated interest in communications, journalism, or public relations.

As a Communications Intern, you will play a role in ensuring AARP's One Voice strategic imperative across multiple communication channels on issues critical to AARP's social mission.

CSG develops communications strategies and tactical plans to amplify AARP's work in social impact areas such as Healthy Living, Caregiving, Savings & Planning, and Work & Jobs. The External Relations team develops and executes AARP's public relations strategy. The Communications Intern will divide their time between both teams.

We'll challenge you to think and work in new ways. We are committed to your growth and will cultivate your continued learning and development.
Responsibilities

On an average day, you will tackle a variety of assignments:
  • Supporting AARP staff in developing and executing communication strategies focusing on AARP core issues and crisis communications.
  • Assist in managing on-going projects such as message testing, developing and updating collateral material, tracking, and reporting results of communications campaigns, and collecting and cataloging AARP member stories.
  • Providing support in preparing for communications strategy meetings, presentations, and reports.
  • Developing an analysis of communications campaigns.
  • Editing/drafting press release, media kits, and talking points for AARP spokespersons for media interviews.
  • Effectively utilizing AARP's social media and blogs, monitor AARP's reputation on Twitter and other social media platforms.
  • Performing research and market analysis activities.
  • Building and updating media and influencer lists and databases.

Scheduling, coordinating and attending various events such as satellite media tours, internal briefings
Requirements

Interns must be currently enrolled in a degree program at an accredited college or university; be considered rising undergraduate juniors or seniors, graduate students, or post-doctoral students; and remain academically enrolled throughout the internship.

AARP also considers non-traditional interns who are looking to re-enter the workforce or change careers. This may include those who have previously graduated from college and enrolled in a continuing education program.

Must be proficient in the following:
  • Strong writing, speaking and editing skills.
  • Strong social media skills.
  • Strong collaboration skills.
  • Capable of developing effective PowerPoint presentations.
Benefits Offered

Internships are non-exempt positions and are not eligible for employee benefits.
Equal Employment Opportunity

AARP is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive culture. AARP does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, color, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, mental or physical disability, genetic information, veteran status, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.