So, you want to get into Advertising?

I've been very fortunate to have been in this industry. I've been a Chief on some really great accounts including GEICO, Coke, Skittles/Wrigley-Mars, Milk, The Bahamas, Progressive etc... Advertising can be exciting, fun, invigorating and rewarding. But, to get ahead it requires long business hours, strong social skills and compromise - even when it seems impossible. There are a lot of egos in this industry - and it melts disciplines together that are seemingly on opposing sides. The stereotypes of "hot-headed" creatives, "condescending techies" and "controlling account reps" do exist. Adding to the confusion (can be) the analytics folks and consumer insights. I'm not saying everyone is a challenge to work with, but you need to know what you're in for when bringing such differing personalities and disciplines together. It isn't easy and one needs to possess and/or develop an understanding and respect for differing skillsets, agendas and personal goals.

When I started out, I really didn't get too much help. I came out of the music industry in Minneapolis and a Bachelor's degree, but with no practical experience. I beat down doors until someone would give me a chance. I ended up at a small agency in Milwaukee that built websites. It was a chaotic job and I really tried but didn't get along too well with my boss. It may have been because I saw her reading a book entitled, "The Internet for Dummies"...I'm not kidding. She demoted me after about 6 months and I couldn't believe it. But I pressed on and within a few months ended up getting a job at a really good agency in Chicago. Since then, i moved on to become a CDO, a President and a head of North America for the world's most powerful agency networks.

I've worked hard, long hours and scratched my way up through the ranks. I have tried to be fair in my (sometimes difficult) decisions and have tried very hard to give back and share my experiences with the up-and-comers. That being said, I've seen some really disturbing trends with some young adults coming out of college. I'm contacted here on linkedin- daily. They want internships, career advice or just to hear "how I did it". More and more though, they contact me and ask to schedule a call - then reschedule again and again and sometimes don't even get back to me when I return their messages. It isn't everyone, but it's becoming increasingly the norm. Conversely, there are many interns that I still keep in touch with and have followed their careers with great pride. This being said, I have some tips for those of you who want to get in the industry:

1. Do: Seek out some of the best talent in the industry. Ask their advice and learn from their victories as well as their defeats. They have lived through it and can help you navigate this ever-changing landscape.
2. Don't: Reschedule, cancel or disappear and reappear. We're all busy and things come up - I, of all people certainly understand that. Remember, if one is successful in this industry, one's calendar is full. Have respect and gratitude for business professionals who take time to help you and your career.
3. Do: Have honest questions prepared. Know what you hope to get out of the conversation prior to it taking place. You'll look prepared and may even get an internship and/or a job from the conversation.
4. Don't: Be afraid to ask too much or too many questions. Even if you think you won't sound educated, we've heard almost everything before. It's ok to admit what you don't know and rely on the experience of those who've paved the path before you.
5. Do: Be hungry, bold and grateful. Everyone likes a go-getter (except those who are insecure). Show initiative, do your research on the person from which you're asking advice. Do your homework, it will help you and guide the conversation.
6. Don't: Be meek. Success comes to those who've worked for it. Ask your questions, get clarity on what you hope to get from the conversation and follow up with a well thought "Thank you". Your boldness will come though if - in your follow up - you tell them EXACTLY what you took from the discussion.

I hope this helps you. Trust me, to this day I remember the kid who gave me a Superman comic book for just having a few conversations with him. I want everyone to succeed but let's face it - I'm human too. I remember the great ones, but I also remember the not-so-great ones as well. Good luck to you!

Sincerely,

The former rapper, college sprinter and the baddest adman on the planet (arguably).

-Jonathan