6. Schooling
Getting an education in advertising doesn't just apply to college students. If you're serious about working in an agency, you can learn a lot by taking a course.
This doesn't necessarily mean you have to pack up and move to your closest advertising school. The Internet has given so many people the opportunity to learn about advertising and what it takes to make it in the business from the comfort of their own home.
7. Introduce Yourself
If you're looking for a position on the creative side of advertising, write a letter to the Creative Director. Introduce yourself in a friendly, professional tone and give a brief bio.
Be sure you find out who the Creative Director is and not just address your letter: "To Whom It May Concern." You want to approach this person just as you would a friend so get their name and the spelling right.
You can follow up in a few weeks with an additional letter or you can give the Creative Director a call. Just don't cold call them first. Anyone in an agency is going to be busy and especially someone in a management position who is juggling many projects at once.
8. Network
Look for opportunities to meet with people in your area that are actively working in the industry. Many cities have local advertising clubs that sponsor special events, educational seminars and professional workshops. Get out there and meet the people who could be your next potential employer.
9. Work in Sales
There's a big difference between advertising and sales but being an account executive at a car dealership, for example, can help you bridge the gap between no experience and working in an agency.
10. Enthusiasm
Are you passionate about working in advertising? Really passionate? Do you see commercials on TV and think:
"I could do so much better than that!"
Are you a hard worker that's willing to commit to the job, even when that means you're working well past the typical 9-5?
These are just some of the questions you have to really evaluate if you want to pursue a career in advertising. If you can honestly say, "Yes, absolutely," then you need to convey that to a potential employer.
Even in this day and age of hustle and bustle, employers are excited to see someone with genuine passion and enthusiasm. There's a reason they got into the field and your energy is a reminder of that.
People with a lot of experience have still been beaten out of the job by someone with less experience but a lot of heart.