USEFUL TIPS & ADVICE
- BE YOURSELF - do not try to project or promise something you are not.
- READ - everything pertinent to the industry i.e.: all trade publications,
books and each day the Wall Street Journal's advertising/marketing column
and the New York Times' ad column.
- LEARN - stay up to date with the new technology; computer skills are very
important; be a sponge - ask questions, be interested, do your homework
- BRUSH UP - on speaking and writing skills. Both are very important in the
advertising & communications fields.
- NETWORK- use everyone you know for information, introductions, advice, and
help. Don't be shy!
- KNOW WHAT YOU WANT - do research about the different departments and the
job responsibilities - be able to articulate the direction and/or job you
want to move into.
- KNOW THE RULES - be aware that there are politics at every level in every
job; learn how to deal with them
- DRESS PROFESSIONALLY - buy 1 or 2 good outfits/suits and then use accessories
to change the look. You must look professional - dress for the responsibility
you want.
- TRY TO SWINE - volunteer for any and all projects; arrive early; leave late;
know the products and services of all the divisions of your company; know
the competitors as well.
- BE PREPARED - always have your resume up to date and ready to be distributed;
carry a business card; be able to explain to someone succinctly what job you
are looking for.
- UTILIZE INTERNSHIPS - paid or unpaid - they are good entrances to the field.
- LIVE! - be up to date on current trends, movies, books, the arts, sports,
politics; all of this impacts on your business life - most specifically on
proposals and recommendations you may be asked to make.
- DON'T BE PASSIVE! - energy, enthusiasm, creativity, confidence are key characteristics
of people who are successful in the communications industry - display all
of them.
- JOIN A PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATION - This is an excellent way to begin making
contacts in your chosen field. Don't hesitate to ask those you meet for informational
interviews.
- TURN OFF YOUR CELL PHONE - in any interview.
- SEND THANK YOU NOTES - to the people who meet with you for both job and
informational interviews.