What do you do if you want to advance your career in media sales through temporary and contract work?

1 Embrace Flexibility

In media sales, temporary and contract positions require you to adapt quickly to different environments and sales targets. To use these opportunities to advance your career, maintain a flexible mindset and be prepared to learn new systems and strategies at a moment's notice. This adaptability not only makes you a valuable asset to potential employers but also broadens your skill set, making you more competitive in the job market.

2 Network Constantly

Networking is a cornerstone of success in media sales. As you move through various temporary and contract roles, make it a priority to build relationships with colleagues, clients, and industry professionals. Attend industry events, join professional groups, and stay active on professional social networks. Each connection can lead to new opportunities and insights that could be pivotal in advancing your career.

3 Hone Your Skills

With each temporary or contract role, focus on honing your sales skills. Whether it's mastering the art of negotiation or learning the latest digital sales tools, every position is an opportunity to improve. Take note of the skills in high demand within the industry and seek out roles or projects that allow you to develop those areas, thereby enhancing your resume and your value to future employers.

4 Seek Diverse Experiences

Diverse experiences in media sales can make your resume stand out. Actively seek contract work in various media sectors, such as digital, print, broadcast, or outdoor advertising. This not only demonstrates your versatility but also gives you a comprehensive understanding of the media industry as a whole, which is invaluable for long-term career progression.

5 Set Career Goals

While navigating temporary and contract work, it's crucial to set clear career goals. Decide where you want to be in the next few years and identify the types of experiences and skills you need to get there. Use each assignment as a stepping stone towards these goals, ensuring that the work you're doing is aligned with your long-term objectives.

6 Reflect and Adjust

After each contract or temporary role, take time to reflect on what you've learned and how it contributes to your career advancement. Assess the successes and challenges you faced and consider how they fit into your overall career plan. Be ready to adjust your goals as needed based on your experiences and the evolving media sales landscape.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?