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.
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