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.