4 Ways to Improve Your Chances of Getting an Advertising Internship

Quick answer: To improve your chances of an advertising internship, show creative work, not just a CV. Build a small design or illustration portfolio, grow a social media following, publish some writing, and learn basic marketing terms such as conversions, CTAs, leads and ROI. Employers want proof that you can add to a creative team from day one.

Advertising is an industry that many young people want to get into.

It’s quite tough to get an internship in that field, as there aren’t nearly enough slots for all the applicants. When you put your resume on the internship listing site, you’re putting yourself on the market.

You will need to know how to promote yourself if you want to succeed in advertising.

If you’re looking to improve your value as an intern, here are four ways you can do that.

1. Get into illustration and design

Advertising is an industry that requires quite a bit of creativity and imagination, so in a way, you want to present yourself how an artist would.

You have to show employers that you can be an asset to their creative team, as they will require your help with many things, such as simple Photoshop touch-ups and complex artistic planning.

Therefore, it’s essential that you prove that you are artistic, creative and imaginative. These are traits that you need to have if you want to work at an advertising agency, so you will want to show them that you do have what it takes to be part of their team.

2. Build a following on social media

Social media marketing has been a dominant force in the digital marketing industry for the past few years. This is because social platforms make it easy for people all over the world to connect with each other.

Businesses have found a way to be a part of this process by placing themselves in the center of the conversations on these sites. A well-known example is Wendy’s, which joked with its competitors on Twitter and became widely talked about online.

Social media management skills are very much in demand, and many advertising agencies look for people who can run social accounts. We suggest that you try to build a social media following to show agencies that you have something to contribute to their company.

3. Start writing

The internet is driven by content, so many advertising agencies need good content writers. If you’re looking for an internship in marketing, we suggest that you start writing so you’ll have something to show when you apply for an internship.

A free blogging platform such as Medium is a good place to publish short pieces. Write a few posts that show you have a way with words.

4. Learn more about marketing

Advertising is part of marketing, so it’s essential that you have an idea about how the marketing industry works to improve your chances of landing an internship.

At the very least, you should learn about industry-specific keywords such as conversions, CTAs, leads, ROI, etc. If the interviewer asks you about them, you will know how to respond to those questions. You don’t want to sit there awkwardly when they ask you how you plan to improve the ROI of their company.

You should be able to present them with something of value, and the only way you can do that is by learning more about marketing.

If you want to build real agency experience abroad, the Asia Internship Program can help you look for a marketing internship in Asia. Get in touch with us to see how we can help.

FAQs

How do I get an advertising internship with no experience?

Create your own proof of skill. Put together a small portfolio of design or illustration, publish a few pieces of writing and run a social media account. Agencies value people who show initiative.

What skills do advertising interns need?

Creativity and basic design skills, such as simple photo editing, help a lot. Social media skills, good writing and a working knowledge of marketing terms like conversions, CTAs, leads and ROI also count.

Do I need a marketing degree to intern in advertising?

Not necessarily. Everyone 18 or over is welcome to apply for our internships, with or without a degree. What matters to most agencies is that you can show your skills and learn quickly.

Can I do an advertising or marketing internship abroad?

Yes. Our host companies in Asia work in English, and we place interns in marketing and related fields across our destinations. We find a placement that fits your goals, but we cannot promise a specific one.

When should I apply for an internship abroad?

Finding your placement takes about 8 weeks from your deposit, so apply with a start date at least 12 weeks away. If your start date is less than 12 weeks away, you need AIPx Fast Track. For summer, apply earlier. Placement takes about 8 weeks from your deposit.

Want to see which fields you can intern in? Browse our industries or learn how it works.