Q: What are the key qualifications S+A looks for in its professional staff?
A: There are many skills that can be taught, learned, and enhanced, but the most vital qualities that we look for are those inherent to the individual. Creativity. Resourcefulness. The ability to lead and the willingness to embrace new challenges. We strongly believe in leveraging the knowledge, experiences and strengths of the individual while elevating the power of our entire team.

Q: Does S+A have a training and development program?
A: Yes. We are totally committed to helping people learn and master all the skills needed to be an outstanding PR practitioner. Junior staff members are exposed to a variety of accounts, often in diverse industries and practice areas, allowing them to develop a broad range of skills while learning from a group of seasoned senior managers. Our monthly “Learning Sessions” delve deeply into topics of utmost importance to our business, the industry and professional growth, and we employ an education policy that applies limited funding for each employee to join a professional organization or pursue relevant courses or seminars outside of the office.

Q: Is there opportunity for mobility at S+A?
A: Absolutely! We strongly believe that growth from within our organization is a great part of our success. With clear, detailed job descriptions as a guide, staff members work closely with managers to master the requirements for reaching the next level. Feedback on performance is given on a continuous basis and we approach professional development openly, honestly and constructively. And we do not work against a specific timetable or steadfast rule of promotion – if you have what it takes, you will grow! Worth noting is that our two most senior executives have been with S+A for 10 years, and moved progressively and rapidly up the agency ladder. One of our vice presidents joined S+A fresh out of college.

Q: Why would I want to work at S+A?
A: Why wouldn’t you? S+A values a work culture that is highly unusual in the field of public relations. When people who have worked elsewhere join our firm, they can’t believe what they’ve found! S+A stands apart from other agencies because of our exceptional quality of work/life balance, and our overarching commitment to every staff member’s well-being and professional development. Everyone contributes to meeting and even raising our exceptionally high standards in proactive service, results, writing and professionalism – and you’re recognized for it! Senior managers and junior staff work together to explore solutions to problems and identify new approaches for reaching goals – our own and those of our clients. Everyone’s opinion counts and respect is at the core of our business.