Advertising Executive
Job Description:Advertising executives provide the link between an advertising agency and its clients.
Job Category:What you will do:
You’ll work for an agency that deals with advertising media like:
- digital
- social media
- mobile marketing
- direct marketing
Your day-to-day tasks may include:
- meeting clients to discuss their needs
- working with account planners
- coming up with campaigns that meet the client’s needs and budget
- presenting campaign ideas and costs to clients
- briefing the creative team that produces the words and artwork
- checking and reporting on the campaign’s progress
- keeping in contact with the client at all stages of the campaign
- managing the account’s budget and invoicing the client
- trying to win new business for the agency
You’ll usually handle about 3 or 4 accounts at the same time.
Skills:
You’ll need:
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
- the ability to sell products and services
- customer service skills
- persistence and determination
- ambition and a desire to succeed
- persuading and negotiating skills
- the ability to use your initiative (drive)
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- creativity
- teamwork skills
Entry Requirements:
There are no set requirements, but you’ll usually need a degree. Relevant degrees include:
- advertising
- marketing
- statistics or operational research
- communication and media studies
- business or management
- psychology
You’ll also need an interest in advertising, excellent communication skills and, quite often, a portfolio.
Experience is highly valued by employers. You could try:
- work experience placements
- internships
- temporary employment
You may be able to start in a more junior position like administrator, and work your way up as your experience grows.
You could get into this job through an apprenticeship.
School Subjects
To become an Advertising Executive in the UK, specific GCSE subjects are not mandatory, but certain subjects can be beneficial in developing the skills and knowledge required for this role, such as:
- English: Strong language and communication skills are essential for effectively interacting with clients, writing proposals, and communicating advertising strategies.
- Business Studies: This subject can provide insights into marketing principles, consumer behavior, and business strategies, which are relevant for understanding clients’ needs and objectives.
- Mathematics: Basic mathematical skills are useful for budget management and financial aspects of advertising campaigns.
- Media Studies (if available): Knowledge of media platforms, advertising trends, and audience behavior can be advantageous in planning effective advertising strategies.
- ICT (Information and Communication Technology): Familiarity with digital tools and communication platforms is essential for modern advertising practices.
Working Hours and Environment:
You’ll usually work from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Your hours may be longer when you have deadlines to meet.
You’ll be based in an office, but you may also travel to meet clients.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could progress to account manager, become an agency director, or set up your own agency.