Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Communications Strategist

at American Civil Liberties Union of Florida

🏢 About American Civil Liberties Union of Florida

The ACLU of Florida is a premier civil rights organization that combines litigation, advocacy, and public education to protect constitutional freedoms in the state. Working here means joining a dedicated team that tackles high-impact issues like voting rights, racial justice, and free speech, with the flexibility of a remote-first culture.

About This Role

As Senior Communications Strategist, you will lead the narrative on critical civil liberties issues, shaping media coverage and public discourse. Your work directly influences policy changes and public awareness, making this a role where strategic communication drives real-world impact.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with monitoring news for civil liberties developments, followed by drafting a press release on a new lawsuit. You could then pitch a story to a reporter, prepare a staff member for a TV interview, and collaborate with the legal team on messaging for an upcoming advocacy event.

🎯 Who American Civil Liberties Union of Florida Is Looking For

  • A seasoned communications professional with 5+ years of experience in media relations and advocacy communications, ideally within non-profits or political campaigns.
  • An exceptional writer who can distill complex legal and policy issues into clear, compelling narratives for diverse audiences.
  • A proactive media relations expert with a track record of securing high-impact coverage and building journalist relationships.
  • A strategic thinker who can craft rapid-response communications and coach spokespersons effectively.

📝 Tips for Applying to American Civil Liberties Union of Florida

1

Highlight specific examples of media campaigns you've led that resulted in measurable policy or public opinion shifts.

2

Tailor your resume to emphasize experience with rapid-response communications and crisis messaging.

3

Include a writing sample that demonstrates your ability to translate legal or policy jargon into accessible language.

4

Mention any familiarity with Florida-specific civil rights issues or the state's political landscape.

5

Showcase your experience working remotely or managing cross-functional teams virtually.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your passion for civil liberties and alignment with the ACLU's mission.", "Concrete examples of strategic communications campaigns you've led, especially those involving media relations.", 'Your ability to handle high-pressure, time-sensitive communications, such as rapid response to breaking news.', 'Your experience in coaching spokespersons and preparing them for media interviews.']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Review the ACLU of Florida's recent press releases and media coverage to understand their current messaging and priorities.
  • Familiarize yourself with key civil rights issues currently facing Florida, such as voting rights, abortion access, and LGBTQ+ protections.
  • Understand the organization's structure and how the communications team collaborates with legal and advocacy departments.
  • Check the bios of current communications staff to understand the team's expertise and culture.
Visit American Civil Liberties Union of Florida's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you develop a communications strategy for a controversial civil liberties issue in Florida?
2 Describe a time you managed a crisis communication situation. What was your approach and outcome?
3 How do you measure the success of a media relations campaign?
4 What experience do you have working with legal teams or translating legal concepts for the public?
5 How would you handle a situation where a journalist misrepresents an ACLU position?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't reference specific ACLU campaigns or Florida issues.
  • Failing to provide a tailored writing sample that showcases your ability to simplify complex topics.
  • Overlooking the rapid-response aspect of the role; don't focus solely on long-term campaigns without showing crisis readiness.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to American Civil Liberties Union of Florida!