An advertising agent is a person who works for a particular company, often a media outlet such as a television or radio station, or a magazine or newspaper. This person is responsible for procuring ad revenue for the media outlet by selling advertising space. In order to become an advertising agent, it is likely that you will need a college degree in advertising, media, journalism, or English or other relevant language. A particular talent for creating effective copy and design is definitely preferred; you may need computer training in order to become an advertising agent as well.
While you are enrolled in a college program, it is wise to seek out an internship that will help you become an advertising agent after graduation. Look for positions at local radio stations, television stations, magazines, newspapers, or other outlets for various types of advertising. Such an internship will likely give you exposure to the job duties you will perform once you become an advertising agent, and you will have the advantage of learning new skills from a more experienced agent. More importantly, an internship will help you establish contacts within the industry that may help you obtain a position after graduation.
Once you become an advertising agent, expect to start in an entry-level position and work your way up to positions with more responsibility and better pay. During your first few years of work, you will need to exhibit a specific set of skills that will allow you to excel; design skills and familiarity with various design programs is usually preferred, and you can obtain training through college programs or on the job training. It helps to work on a variety of projects that will allow you to build a solid portfolio. This portfolio will help you obtain other jobs in the future or make a case for a promotion within a company.
If you do not have a college degree, you may still be able to become an advertising agent for some companies, though the competition for jobs will be quite stiff and you will have to develop an exceptional portfolio in order to be competitive. One great way to develop such a portfolio is to work for smaller companies and non-profit organizations; you may not get paid for some jobs, but the additions to your portfolio will pay off in the end if you are savvy and committed to developing your skills.
