Q: I've been in my current job as a marketing strategist for a nonprofit just over 3 years and I'm looking to get into either an ad agency or corporate marketing/ad dept. My portfolio shows a good selection of work from my past 3 jobs and I'm polishing some spec ads (I'm a copywriter).
But when it comes to actually landing an interview with an ad shop, I've had little success. And I'm wondering what's holding me back from getting my foot in the door.
Two things come to mind. 1) I attended a university and even earned a master's in PR/advertising. But I didn't attend one of the colleges that specialize in design or writing (Portfolio Center, Savannah Institute, etc.). 2) The companies I've worked for rarely produced high-end stuff.
I'm hanging out a shingle as a freelancer, but those opportunities are infrequent. Any tips on getting at least a look from the ad shops?
A: Landing an ad agency interview can be a challenge but you're solid in both experience in education. That should at least give you a chance to meet with Creative Directors at ad agencies. Let's take a look at some factors that might be holding you back from getting the interview.
Are They Hiring?
The easiest way to start is make sure the agency you're interested in is hiring for your particular position. Most agencies will advertise in the local newspaper.
There's no harm in sending your info to agencies even if you haven't seen an ad in the paper for a job. Just don't hang your hopes on getting in with an agency that hasn't advertised for a position. Your work experience and education may be exactly what they're looking for...just not right now.
Don't Cold Call
It would be great if you could just pick up the phone and ask the Creative Director if he wants to hire you because you're a wonderful worker, extremely talented and you really want to work at that particular agency. As I mentioned before, there's nothing wrong with sending your info to the Creative Director (and even finding out that person's name by asking the receptionist at the agency) but don't cold call them about a position they may or may not need filled.
Send More Than a Cover Letter
Whether you're sending your info for a position you saw advertised in the newspaper or local trade magazine, make yourself stand out. I previously talked about sending your info, well, this is where you really make yourself stand apart from the countless number of people who may want the same job you do.
Since you're searching for a copywriter gig, send your cover letter, your resume and also send some of your writing samples. This can include work from your previous jobs as well as SPEC ADS.
I've seen a simple copywriting job at a small ad agency get a deluge of 100+ cover letters and resumes for one position. Very few included a packet of writing samples to show why they should make it to the next round of the application process.
Sure, Creative Directors will want to see your work before they give you the job but beat them before they ask. Submit some writing samples and show them why you're the one that's right for the job.
