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.
