The advertising industry isn’t short of talent and competition. If you’re passionate about becoming a content manager, media buyer, social media manager, or public relations coordinator, you must build on your knowledge, talent, and skills. If you want to make it in the industry, you’ll need to carve a path to success. Read the below four essential steps for success in an advertising career.
Step One: Pick the Correct Degree
The degree you choose can determine your advertising knowledge, skills, and employability. If you want to walk into an advertising role after completing a course, you must pick the correct degree for your career goal. For example, to become a media buyer, PR coordinator, or content manager, consider a Point Park University Online Advertising Degree. You’ll not only improve your advertising and PR knowledge, but you’ll work with an agency to develop fully integrated marketing campaigns for a non-profit or corporate client. You’ll walk away from the course with extensive knowledge and industry experience, which could help you stand out from many applicants.
Step Two: Build an Impressive Advertising Portfolio During University and Beyond
Impress every hiring manager by creating an impressive advertising portfolio during university and beyond, and you can even use samples from your degree and agency experience. Most employers will want to see examples of your past projects to make an informed decision. Gather samples of your work to showcase your skills and creativity to potential employers.
For example, you could provide samples of:
- Spec ads
- Mock marketing campaigns
- Engaging articles
- Attention-grabbing headlines
The more high-quality samples you can provide a client, the more they will trust your talent and skills.
Step Three: Seek Freelance Projects after University
An advertising degree can provide the knowledge and skills you need to create engaging ads, but you will need to prove your talent to a prospective employer. If a lack of experience is holding you back in your advertising career, attempt to find freelance work with a small business or agency after university. Many startups might be happy to take a chance on an advertising or PR newbie to lower their costs and increase their revenue.
Plus, it could increase your income while allowing you to grow a strong portfolio to impress hiring managers in the future. Freelance projects could help you break into an industry, and you can set your own rates and working hours. Remember, the stronger your portfolio, the more money you can charge for your skills.
Step Four: Network with Other Professionals
Industry connections could open various doors throughout your advertising career. If you know someone at an advertising agency or a big brand, they could vouch for your skills or provide interview advice. It’s for this reason why it’s worthwhile picking a degree that includes practical experience at an advertising agency.
In addition to networking with people on the likes of LinkedIn and Twitter, you must look for potential networking opportunities near you, such as:
- Networking coffee mornings
- Industry conferences
- Educational seminars
- Professional workshops
- Special industry events
Connecting with people of all levels could boost your reputation and help you find a potential employer. Don’t forget to follow up with all connections throughout the year to strengthen your relationships, build a friendly rapport, and stay fresh in their minds.
If you follow the above top tips, you could enjoy a long, rewarding, and successful career in advertising.
