The first and foremost criterion for getting a job at an
ad agency is having tons of creativity. Advertising business is all about
creativity; once the creative juices begin to flow the rewards are
overwhelming. A good degree can take you places. Any course or a degree at a
reputed university or an advertising school is a big advantage. People with
fewer resources can utilize the Internet to maximum, as lots of material
regarding advertising is available online, learning from the comfort of home.
Having internship experience counts when trying in an ad agency. Internship
provides ample exposure to the advertising industry and basic training can be
skipped after getting a job. It is better to opt for an entry-level position as
this makes your foundation in advertising very strong. Many successful people
are known to have started from the bottom most position. This provides us with
an opportunity to work outside the job zone assigned which helps to learn the
tricks of the trade. Even if future doesn’t look bright enough in the present
institution this experience will certainly count when looking for a job
elsewhere.
The resume is an important part of the job search and should
reflect the creativity of the applicant. It should be amusing and at the same
time professional too. Addressing a letter to the Creative Director of the
company can be of good help. Find out thoroughly about him before writing a
letter, which might also help in creating an impression during the interview. If
the response is taking time don’t hesitate to post another letter. Calls are
usually not appreciated as most of the people at an ad agency are busy round
the clock and professionals at a higher position have to deal with many
projects at once.
Look out for people in your the network which can sometimes
fetch opportunities through references. These networks can be a source of
information about the seminars, educational workshops and local advertising
clubs. Doing voluntary work for special events will be worth the effort because
if the work is really eye catching it will be appreciated by the guests who
visited the event and one of them can be a potential employer.
If the big break seems real far its better to start
freelancing rather than wasting time. Try creating original work and approach
ad agencies and small business with your work. This can spice up the on-going
job hunt. A graphic designer and a copywriter will have an advantage in this
approach. If it’s hard to get a start create spec ads. Spec ads are personal
versions of a published ad. A little bit of twist can sometimes result in a
better ad than the actual one. Even if it isn’t this sure will bring you
opportunities in small local businesses.
Start with businesses residing in your locality like the
grocery store or the butcher’s shop. Later on approach television and radio
stations. They always have vacancies for commercial writers and need a helping
hand to develop programs. Since the income is less in these type of jobs its
easier for a beginner to get a job.
At the end of the day passion for work really counts.
Sometime or the other there will be an employer who will have respect for true
passion and creativity and all that energy will give you that much needed break
and take you places.
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