Advertising is one of the most sought-after fields these days. With the advent of mobile phones, streaming and social media, the demand for jobs in advertising has grown like anything. In the old days, you could advertise in only a few things like on the television, newspaper or in a magazine. There were, of course, posters and billboards as well. But now advertising has moved to electronic media. Well, in this post you will read How to Get a Job in Advertising?
People don’t watch a movie on cable or the theatres, they prefer to stay at home and be entertained on their smartphones. This is why most advertising companies now focus on social media and streaming. Advertising has always been an interesting job, and it is the perfect field for individuals with creative minds. If you do not want a tedious 9 to 5 job, advertising is the perfect gig for you as it will always keep you on your toes creatively.
You will be constantly challenged to come up with catchy slogans and interesting campaigns for different products. It is a job that anyone can do, provided they have an original way of thinking and can come up with innovative ideas. Young people are often naturally drawn to a job in advertising because they have been exposed to advertisements all their life.
Here is how you can get into advertising:
Get a Degree.
The most simple path to getting into advertising would be to obtain a degree in advertising or mass communications. However, if you have a specialization in some other field and decide you want a job in advertising, you can enrol in a certificate program.
The program will give you valuable experience and develop your skills as well. Your resume will also look more inviting for future recruiters and employers.
However, the field is very competitive, and you will need more than a degree or a certificate course to get a good job. Read on to find out what steps you can take that will make your transition to advertising easier.
Look for an Internship.
An internship can be the perfect way to get into a field that you are having trouble entering. Most companies and establishments offer internship programs. In fact, newspapers and different media houses often have internship programs where you can apply.
Even getting an internship at a reputed company or agency can be difficult as there is a lot of competition. Don’t make the mistake of taking your internship application lightly. You will need to write a convincing cover letter, update your resume and create a portfolio of your work.
Once you get an internship, you will be able to gain useful work experience and learn new skills. This will help you land a paying job. It is completely fine to work for free for a few months as long as you are getting an opportunity to learn.
Internships can be of different durations depending on the company and the candidate’s preference. However, try to do a longer internship as your experience will be more valuable if you work at a place for more time. During your future job interview, make sure you bring up the internship and detail everything you learned there.
Networking Always Helps.
Advertising is a tightly knit field, so networking will definitely help you get ahead. Make sure you make contacts with people from the field when you come across them. Stay in touch with your professors and the alumni of your university.
References from good sources are always beneficial. You can attend workshops or seminars on advertising as these events are perfect for networking. You will be able to meet people who are already well-placed in the world of advertising. If you are able to befriend them, they could easily help you get a good job.
Don’t be afraid of working hard. Create a portfolio of your work and carry it with you at all times. You never know when an opportunity can strike.
Participate in Multiplatform Campaigns.
These days every brand is looking to start a campaign on social media to raise awareness of their products. These campaigns are multiplatform and require a lot of manpower. Whenever you see an opportunity like this, be sure that you get involved.
Even if the pay is not according to your expectations at first, it is the experience that matters. If you are part of some good advertising campaigns, recruiters will be more interested in you.
Advertising is a field that is constantly growing. There is a high demand for jobs in this field right now. If you are talented and creative, you can achieve great things. Advertising agencies are always looking for the brilliant mind which will give them their next successful campaign. If you play your cards right, it could be you.
How did you get a start in the field of advertising? Let us know by writing in the comment section below.