An entry-level internship, while in college, can be good preparation for a career at an advertising agency.
Advertising can be a highly competive field becuase the creative and glamorous nature of the work typically attracts more applicants than there are available positions. To stand out among the competition, indvidiuals interested in a career at an advertising agency must demonstrate superior skill and knowledge in the design and execution of television, radio, print, billboard and Internet advertising. Proper training in the field is key to the development of these qualifications and requires both formal education and professional experience.
Function
Because a career at an advertising agency requires the ability to come up with new and interesting ways to promote products, those who go into the field must be creative and resourceful. They must also possess strong oral and written communication skills and be able to work in a fast-paced, highly stressful environment. In addition, as more and more advertising occurs on the Internet and via social networking sites, advertising agency employees must have good computer skills as well. Advertising training and education programs are designed to help students hone these skills so they are prepared for employment at an agency.
Education
Most advertising agencies require employees to have a bachelor's degree in advertising, journalism or a related field. Some students who go into the field major in psychology, sociology, philosophy or literature as well. For management positions, a master's degree in business administration (MBA) may be required. Students in advertising programs typically take classes in marketing, market research, consumer behavior, sales, visual arts, photography and communications methods and technology. They may also receive instruction in copywriting, art direction, media planning, digital media and portfolio development. Courses in business law, finance, statistics and accounting are helpful as well.
Internship
Education programs for those interested in an advertising agency career usually provide students with the opportunity to participate in an internship. They are able to work at an advertising agency or marketing firm to supplement their classroom instruction and receive a real world perspective of what a successful career at an advertising agency entails. It also provides candidates with an advantage when seeking entry-level employment after graduation.
Professional Experience
After completing a formal education program, those in the advertising field typically receive on-the-job training in an entry-level position. Candidates may begin as an advertising sales associate, accountant associate, promotional assistant, copywriter or art designer. As they acquire experience, they are able to advance to senior positions, such as account executive or advertising manager. Some advertising agencies may also offer management training programs, which allow employees to prepare for specific advancement opportunities while on the job.
Continuing Education
Many advertising agencies provide employees with continuing education opportunities, so they are aware of the latest development in the field and advances in technology that may impact advertising potential. Some agencies offer in-house courses, while others pay for employees to attend classes at nearby colleges and universities. Typical continuing education courses include brand and product management; product promotion and international marketing. Advertising agency employees may also attend conferences, workshops and seminars through their employers.
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