Everyone knows that an advertiser is in charge of an organization's promotional campaign and public relations. It will seem like an easy job, but a good professional not only has the task of generating a positive image for their client, they also have the role of successfully eliminating all the negativity that is aimed at a brand. Public relations experts work in virtually every field, and clients range from actors to singers, to hospitals and businesses. It is a dynamic and exciting career path, but it is often difficult to access. So, before you discover how to become an advertiser, you should acquire the right skills in several areas: communication, writing, image protection, event planning, business and marketing.
Steps
Step 1. If you are about to enroll in college, consider faculties offering undergraduate degrees in Communication, Journalism, Literature, or Marketing
Studying journalism or communication can help you a lot to acquire skills in writing press releases; in addition, it allows you to familiarize yourself with the regulations concerning the mass media. In any case, many agencies also hire graduates in Literature, Marketing or even Economics.
Step 2. While studying, do an internship in an agency that deals with public relations or in some way connected to the mass media
This will allow you to have a great experience in the real world and gain knowledge to add to your resume when you start practicing. In many universities, internships are required to graduate, so they'll help you find one that's right for you.
Step 3. Keep all press releases, newspaper articles and other pieces you write while studying and doing internships
Put them in a binder so you can show them to potential employers. This proves to agencies that you have the skills required for the position and have gained experience despite academic commitments.
Step 4. Finish your academic career and start looking for a job in public relations or advertising
There are great sites to share your resume and do professional research, but several agencies post ads in local newspapers. If you don't have a lot of experience, look for first-level or assistant positions. Employers know that candidates for these jobs are fresh out of college and new to the industry.
Step 5. Apply for open positions, trying to follow employers' instructions regarding resume, articles, videos or other requirements
After sending everything you need, speak to make sure the agency has received it and inform yourself about the closing date for the selection.
Step 6. Dress professionally to go to interviews
The employer wants to make sure you understand this world and can represent it. Advertisers often act as spokespersons for their clients both in front of cameras and in newspapers, so many agencies are looking for nice-looking, friendly-behaved, and professional-looking people.
Step 7. Make your way into the advertising industry
Start as an assistant or junior public relations officer. Strive for more responsibility and, consequently, a higher salary. You may not find your dream job right away: you will probably sit in an office and write press releases at first. This is necessary to gain confidence and then move on to projects of greater depth.
Step 8. After a few years of experience in the industry, you may return to study for a masters in journalism or communication
This will make your profile even more interesting and give you a better chance to land the job you want, earning the salary you think you deserve. If your future plan is to start your own agency or teach at university level, you can only do it with a master's degree.
Advice
- Join an advertising and public relations association to belong to a community of professionals working in the same industry. For example, the Italian Association of Professional Advertising. Use the helpful tools on the site, get in touch with your colleagues or other specialists, attend conferences and submit your work for review in annual competitions.
- Use a site like PRweb.com or bestnetwork.it to learn how to write great press releases and other articles online. These pages collaborate with search engines and bodies in the communication sector to ensure that your story is read by the public soon.
