Careers in Advertising

Advertising careers are very rewarding in nature, and require a vast amount of creativity and dedication to the job. Most individuals who wish to pursue a career in advertising do so by joining an advertising agency. Advertising careers can fall under six main categories: account management, account planning, creative, media, market research, and interactive marketing.

Account Management:
``The responsibility of the account manager is to be the client’s representative at the agency, and the agency’s representative at the client’s organization. It is his or her job to get the best possible work from the agency for the client-but at a profitable return for the agency` (Guide to careers in advertising, 2009). This position usually starts at entry level, with high potential of moving up to senior levels. It is recommended that candidates should have a bachelor`s degree or a master in business administration. A degree in advertising or marketing is not a prerequisite, however it is recommended.

Account Planning:
The account planner is generally used for strategic thinking on the consumer, and how the agency can turn that knowledge into a marketing phenomenon. This is a fairly new position, and may not be used in all agencies. ``However, most account planners have academic backgrounds in Liberal Arts, and certainly exposure to such subjects as psychology, sociology, and cultural anthropology is beneficial. `` (Guides to careers in advertising, 2009).

Creative:
The creative team is responsible for the ideas and concepts behind the advertisements. The team generally consists of copywriters and art directors. A successful candidate for this position must have strong visual, drawing, and design skills.

Media:
Media personnel are there to ensure that the advertisement reaches the right people at the right time in the right place. They also wish to do this with the lowest possible cost to the client as possible, while still gaining the most coverage that they can. The most common career in this area of advertising is a media planner. Analyzing data and applying computer skills are a definite requirement for this position.

Market Research:
The responsibility of market researchers is to determine what their target market`s needs and wants are, and then tailor specific products and advertisements in order to meet their needs. These individuals are generally experts on consumer behaviour, and must be strong in analyzing and interpreting quantitative and qualitative data.

Interactive Marketing:
Interactive marketing is directly related to the agency`s website. Personnel are responsible for creating a website that will engage consumers for an extended period of time, and allow them to interact with the agency. Careers in this area are best suited for computer designers and programmers.