Creative Advertising Jobs
Many types of people are attracted to advertising. Most of us are most familiar with creative advertising jobs, such as model, writer, photographer, and director. These jobs don't require an MBA, but a variety of professional and academic backgrounds.Those who produce images, such as photographers, graphic artists, and camera operators, often graduate from art institutes or art-related programs at universities. They may study graphic design, filmmaking, and digital photography. They might also learn how to edit film, airbrush photographs, and use technical equipment that allows them to realize their creative vision.
People who are featured in advertisements are actors and models. They often have less conventional backgrounds. For example, some might be aspiring film stars, trying to pay their bills through commercial acting until they get a break. They might have a degree in theatre or have informal acting training.
Advertising Careers with a Business Focus
We've all heard of big advertising executives who head up prominent advertising firms on Madison Avenue. They are regarded more as business people than artists. They watch trends and predict them. They develop broad strategies for large brand companies, such as Ralph Lauren, Toyota, Tiffany & Co., and Neiman Marcus.There are also advertising managers, people who carry out the vision behind a new marketing campaign. An advertising manager's role is largely administrative; it involves bringing people together with the right skills and making sure they produce the desired content on time. Some advertising managers are called art directors. As their title suggests, they likely have some creative training. They might help come up with an advertising campaign and oversee its execution. As such, training in the arts and business serves them well. Advertising careers in sales also have a strong business focus. You may find yourself working for a publication or television network, selling advertising air time or a piece of advertising real estate within the pages of Vogue or Newsweek magazine.
With so many options to pursue in an advertising career, both with a creative and business focus, you're sure to find a path to a job that's right for you.
