Job Responsibilities
Basically anything you can think of in the advertising field I
did. From ordering television and radio advertising spots to
coming up with scripts for those same commericals. I also was in
daily contact with the clients ensuring their satisfaction, trying
to find new clients, and also playing administrative assistant at
times. There was not one thing (I believe) that a full service ad
agency would do that I did not. That said, however, working for a
small ad firm it is impossible to give a break down of the amount
of time spent on each activity or even an exact list of
responsibilities. Basically when a client needed something,
whatever or whenever it was, it was our job to satisfy their request.
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Job Requirements
I was hired right after I graduated from college. I went through
my school's career services web site and found the job listing. I
did not have a degree in an advertising field which I think
lengthened my learning curve. I though I'd have no shot at the
job without a marketing degree, however I believe the boss found
my interview enjoyable and saw that I had a good head on my
shoulders. He later said he was looking for someone who showed
the ability to interact with others and also to be able to think
on their feet.
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Uppers
Working in a smaller firm has some perks. First I was not pigeon-holed into one
specefic task. I was able to do everything in the firm and really round out my
experience. I felt like I was actually making a real contribution to the success
of the business. It is great watching TV one night and seeing an ad that you
wrote and placed on that station. Also feels great when you hear from a client
that they got a response from the ad because you then know you are doing your job
well.
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Downers
The cutthroat nature of the business. Other firms are constantly
trying to grapple for your business and you are left in a constant
position to fight for your business. The fickle nature of
clients. It happened on several occasions that if a client didn't
see a marked increase in responses 2 days after an ad they would
cancel the whole campaign and you would lose out on your commission.
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Lifestyle
I worked a typical 9-5 day. Most of the time I skipped lunch (or ate at my
desk) to ensure that my work was done. When I had something that required me
coming in early or staying late I did so. I choose not to travel, but others in
my position decided to travel. They often went to see their clients or to try
and get new ones. The type and amount of travel basically depends on client
base. If your base is within 10 miles of your office you won't travel more than
10 miles, but if you are in New York and a client is in California you will be
travelling cross country. Dress was business casual (slacks and button down
shirt) most days, but when a client was coming in it was more formal. Dress down
Fridays were there
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Compensation
I was paid in the low to mid 40s just coming out of college. I
decided to leave this job because I wasn't sure how fast I could
progress up the pay scale or promotion scale. The boss was
generous with perks like tickets or paid time off but no bonuses
in the checks. Health coverage was offered but I choose to decline.
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Advice to Jobseekers
The best advice I would have is to remember the client is always
right. Your money and business comes from the clients so do what
you can to cater to their needs. Other than that just be a
creative thinker, learn to take constructive criticism, and enjoy
what you do.
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