Creative communication with an AHSS degree

Working in publishing or marketing and advertising is an area appeals to a diverse number of AHSS degrees. But just how exactly can we get into these sectors? There are helpful websites out there which provide advice and opportunities, but it’s an extremely competitive work environment you must ensure you stand out from the crowd.

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Publishing

Work experience is key to getting a foot in the door. Whether its summer placement at a local advertising agency or even taking on the role of communications officer in a university society, employers want to see that you have genuine interest and experience to bring to their company. A 2012 Guardian article discussing jobs in publishing states that “any experience is good experience”. For publishing, the best way to start and get relevant training would be through proofreading and copy editing-both which can be easily done from home. A good site to register with for publishing experience is BookCareers.com (www.bookcareers.com). On there, you can register with the CV clearing house which posts new jobs in publishing as they become available. Other good places to check are both ‘The Guardian’ and ‘The Bookseller’.

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Marketing and Advertising

Practitioners in Advertising (IPA) advise that employers “often look for individuals with strong levels of diagonal thinking- a mix of creative and commercial thinking”. Therefore, you MUST be able to sell yourself. Don’t hold back, highlight skills that may be relevant. In this digital era an up to date and good knowledge of both social media and digital marketing are key. Put all that time procrastinating on Facebook to good use! A few good websites to check out for jobs and information are:

  • www.campaignlive.co.uk
  • jobs.marketingweek.com
  • www.mediargh.com
  • www.thedrum.com

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Working in Media

Are you outgoing, ambitious and versatile? If so, you might be perfect for a career in media! There are loads of different areas to get involved in, such as:

  • TV: It takes a variety of different talents to put together your favourite TV shows. You could contribute by directing, researching, producing or some of the many other great opportunities.
  • Radio: Whether you want to be a DJ or work behind the scenes, you can gain insight and experience for a career in radio by joining the radio society at QUB.
  • Print Media: Put your essay writing skills to good use by pursuing an exciting career in journalism! Other jobs in this area include editing and reporting.
  • Digital Media: In an increasingly digital world, working in digital media is sure to be exhilarating and there are lots of opportunities in this ever expanding field. Roles in this sector include marketing, consulting and writing. (NH)

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Graduate Schemes in Media

A great way to get a head start on establishing your media career is by doing a graduate scheme.

Big names in television like the BBC, ITV and Channel 4 offer graduate schemes where you can develop skills such as journalism, radio journalism, and production or get involved with digital media.

Further opportunities to work in digital media can be found at Global Radio, Tug Digital Media Agency and Publicis London, amongst others.

If you dream of a career in newspaper journalism, there are several companies offering graduate schemes such as the Guardian, the Daily Mail and the Sun. You can find a list of schemes to apply for on the Student Publication Association website.

Don’t forget: Graduate schemes are very competitive so you’ll need to make yourself stand out by gaining relevant experience while you’re at university. (HM)

 

 

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