Know Who's Who And What They Do.
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Once upon a time, all we needed to know about the ad agencies we applied to were the accounts they worked on. Everyone did TV, radio and print. Now shops specialize in digital, social media, events and more.
Before you reach out to any agency, make sure your skill set is a match for them.
If you have a more traditional background, a digital shop isn't going to give you much consideration. And what's an event's company going to do with someone who specializes in direct marketing?
Most places are looking for the exact (or closest) fit to their needs, before making concessions. If you're looking to change disciplines, there's nothing wrong with that, but then you must be willing to make the concessions. If you're senior-level at a traditional shop, you may have to settle for a mid-level digital position – if they are willing to give you a chance.
If you are applying to agencies and being ignored, narrow your focus. Scrutinize yourself, before they do. It may feel productive sending out mass inquires, but mass rejection has to feel even worse. Don't waste the time and energy. Wherever you're based (or want to go), start making a list of the shops in town – big and small. Learn their disciplines first. To grow (or to get hired), you have to do your homework and know which agencies have what you need to grow with you. Selling mutual benefits is the first step in getting them interested in you.
Pic courtesy of stock.xchng.
Before you reach out to any agency, make sure your skill set is a match for them.
If you have a more traditional background, a digital shop isn't going to give you much consideration. And what's an event's company going to do with someone who specializes in direct marketing?
Most places are looking for the exact (or closest) fit to their needs, before making concessions. If you're looking to change disciplines, there's nothing wrong with that, but then you must be willing to make the concessions. If you're senior-level at a traditional shop, you may have to settle for a mid-level digital position – if they are willing to give you a chance.
If you are applying to agencies and being ignored, narrow your focus. Scrutinize yourself, before they do. It may feel productive sending out mass inquires, but mass rejection has to feel even worse. Don't waste the time and energy. Wherever you're based (or want to go), start making a list of the shops in town – big and small. Learn their disciplines first. To grow (or to get hired), you have to do your homework and know which agencies have what you need to grow with you. Selling mutual benefits is the first step in getting them interested in you.
Pic courtesy of stock.xchng.
Posted by Clifton Simmons at 5/9/2011 8:44 AM 
Categories: Interview tips, A better portfolio, You've Been Schooled, Agency Life, Internships, A better book, Jobs and Contacts
Categories: Interview tips, A better portfolio, You've Been Schooled, Agency Life, Internships, A better book, Jobs and Contacts
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