Career Advice from the Pros

Want some insider information on how to get a job in advertising?

Here’s advice from the experts: human resource directors and a managing director from five major advertising agencies.

This invaluable advice was solicited by students attending a recent Symposium on Advertising, sponsored by the AEF and held at Fordham University in New York.

So keep reading, and you too can learn what it takes to get you noticed, in the door, and on your way to a career in advertising.

Panel Members: Rene Bruce, Human Resources Manager, Saatchi & Saatchi Angel Rivera, Manager, Diversity Initiatives, True North Communications Anne Melanson, EVP/Dir. Human Resources, Bates Worldwide Patty Enright, EVP/Dir. Human Resources, D'Arcy Worldwide Steve Norcia, Managing Director, DDB Worldwide Communications

Click on a question for more detail:

1. What skill sets/experiences do you look for when hiring an entry-level employee?
2. Are these qualities also the ones you look for in entry-level creatives?
3. What kinds of experience do you look for from college graduates? What would give us the edge?
4. What forms can internet marketing take besides banner ads?
5. How do I get a job at one of these agencies? Or how do I start my job search?
6. What kinds of starting salaries can we expect to see?
7. I'm interested in an internship and I want to produce TV commercials. To whom should I apply within an agency?
8. Do you feel it's better to actually call the agencies directly and inquire about internships that way or go to the career service and placement office?
9. What disciplines or courses of study are advertising agency recruiters interested in seeing?
10. So, what most agencies are looking for is liberal arts?