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Getting started in Advertising Most of the professionals in the advertising
industry agree to the fact that obtaining a degree isn't a
must to get started in the industry, but on the contrary all
the classifieds ask for a bachelor's degree at least. Another
advantage of taking a degree is that if internship is taken
during the course, it will provide the adequate experience
that ad agencies and companies usually ask for. The internship
director of the university can help in this regard. He may
have links that could make it possible to get a break in
radio, television or even in an ad agency, the choice totally
depends on interest.
In case the internship director is of no help, become a part
of a network and get to know people around you. This will
surely land you somewhere. It wont hurt to search for an
internship on your own. Check out the local newspapers for
classifieds; call up local radio and television stations and
even ad agencies inquiring about any vacancies. Usually there
are lots of ads in the Sunday edition of newspaper, drop in a
resume at their office. Best idea is to get in contact with
the production manager or the news director of the company.
Send them a mail; give a good reference, which can be of big
help.
Usually there are lots of chances for
internships in the production department. If there is any
success in finding an internship, bring it to the notice of
the internship director; most probably her reference can be of
some advantage. If these attempts don't work, volunteer to
work for free at any local fair, functions and events. Display
your creativity to the fullest. This can catch the attention
of someone important sometime who can give you that
jump-start.
For people who don't opt for regular college,
they can always find lots of material related to advertising
on the Internet. Other than studying the theory work, try to
observe the work of famous personalities in the industry. Get
some ideas, mix it with some creativity and create some
original work and approach the local radio station or
television channel. Since there are number of shows running
there will be some kind of a vacancy.
Get a chance at cross-training too. If initially a job was
provided with other shows at the station, try to switch to
advertising after winning impression. After getting a break
into advertising, it will automatically increase the exposure
to the advertising industry and even to other ad agencies.
This will be a good point on the resume, as most of the
employers get impressed with television experience. And when
working on your first job, there will be a great chance of
learning the basics, so don't hesitate to explore the ground.
But since it is easier to get a job here and there is lots of
competition for that post, the returns aren't that good and
there is no job security.
After getting good experience whether it is internship or
local radio or television station, resume is the next
important step. Fill it up with creativity as that is the main
essence of this field. Don't forget to include past
experience, even if it is small or not related exactly to the
job description, recommendation, if any. The more the
information added, the more strong the resume and the easier
it is to maneuver to the top. |