Preparing to leave college and enter the working worldcan be a daunting task full of questions, but Noisy Trumpet is here to help. Whether you are applying for internships or full-time employment, there are essential tips and tricks we recommend to those who are eager to learn about and join agency life.
From college courses to resume writing and interview techniques, the following are our top recommendations for success:
Classes and certification
Utilize the resources you have in college to explore various programs and study for certification tests. Talk to your college professors and faculty to see if they offer programs or internships as a part of your coursework. If you are looking to join a digital marketing or PR agency, here are a few tools to keep on your radar:
- Google Analytics
- Google Ads
- Facebook Blueprint
- Adobe (Illustrator, Photoshop, Lightroom, etc)
- News outlets (PRWeek, PR Daily, Adweek, Ad Age, Social Media Examiner)
Resume and cover letters
Applying for internships and jobs can be a tedious task; however, it is vital to set aside plenty of time to write, edit and tailor your resume and cover letter for each company where you apply. Incorporating keywords used in the job listing or relating previous experience to work they currently do with their clients, are great ways to ensure your strengths reflect what they are looking for in a candidate. In addition to these tips, here are further suggestions to strengthen your outreach:
- Have someone proofread. This is important to check for any spelling or grammar mistakes.
- Don’t be afraid to ask professors for letters of recommendation. Many positions will ask for a reference list and professors can provide a strong testament of your character and work ethic.
- Consider which classes you’ve taken or experiences you’ve had and how they translate into the position.
Interviews
Though interviews can bring anticipation and stress, preparation is key in building confidence and proving you are prepared. Here are some ways to ensure you are ready to take on any situation:
- Do your research. Review the company website and social media outlets to familiarize yourself with their clients, previous work, blogs and team members.
- Arrive to the interview early, well dressed and with extra copies of your resume and cover letter.
- Prepare to answer questions like these that test your ability to think quickly:
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- What is your strategy for balancing multiple tasks?
- How do you prioritize tasks?
- How do you handle conflict?
- How do you keep up with industry trends?
- What is the strongest skill you could bring to this position?
- Prepare a list of questions to ask. This not only provides further detail of the company’s expectations, it also shows the interviewer you have given the position thought and are eager to learn more:
- What would my work responsibilities entail?
- What programs or software do your employees use?
- What is a standout employee to you?
- What are the company’s key values and what key values do you look for in an employee?
- What does success look like in this position, and how do you measure it?
- What do you see as the most challenging aspect of this position?
Post interview
- Send a follow-up email or handwritten note thanking the interviewers for their time and conversation.
- Agencies are busy; don’t be afraid to follow up when they have not.
With these lists and recommendations, you will be prepared to take the agency world by storm. Above all, remember that new jobs are opportunities to learn and grow in your field.
This article originally appeared on the Noisy Trumpet blog; reprinted with permission.
