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IPA Ad School - Philip Brook, Our Man On The Inside

2012-02-23T10:32:00.000Z

I was lost in central London. At midnight. Not good.

How did I get there? It’s a long story, but it ended my first week at Ogilvy One, as part of the IPA’s Ad School 2011. A pretty good week now you mention it, at the start of a cracking summer.

***boringness alert*** You apply to the IPA to be an account handler, creative or search exec. If they like you, they place you with a top London agency. You work there for a summer. In your spare time, you go to kooky stuff (like talks / a pitch) with the other ad-schoolers. Ok. Sounds good, keep reading. ***boringness over***

Getting lost became a bit of a theme for me. As part of the course, the IPA holds weekly talks at different agencies around London. Travelling from Ogilvy’s office in Canary Wharf in rush hour is a pretty slow business. But then factor in my poor (now much improved) knowledge of Londonian geography and you can imagine the result.

Sprinting from Paddington station to get to Rapier’s mysterious Battleship Building (helpfully located along a canal towpath) or tracking down LMFM’s office on a Camden side street were just two of my many geographical adventures. And by the end of the summer, aside from getting good at running, I’d gained a fantastic insight into an array of different disciplines within the ad industry.

The talks were given by some real advertising big dogs, people you wouldn’t otherwise be important enough to talk to until you’re about forty. In short, apply for the Ad School, because you’ll meet interesting people, and learn stuff.

Anyway, back to the story. Me. Aged 20. History student. Didn’t know much about advertising. Applied. Somehow blagged the speed-dating interviews. Struck lucky BIGTIME. Learned fast. Started work with OgilvyOne. I still can’t quite believe how lucky I was. Needless to say I had an amazing summer.

By day, I was working on Ogilvy’s British Gas account with fantastic people who really looked after me. I was even given a mentor who had to put up with my questions and be nice to me. I worked with both account managers and planners, essentially making myself useful in any way I could, and getting involved with absolutely loads of different projects, including IBM’s Rugby World Cup adverts.

At times, it was hard work -advertising isn’t ALL fun and games- but I wouldn’t have changed a minute of it- and at the end of the summer, the last thing I wanted to do was leave.

By night, when I wasn’t with my team in Ogilvy’s bar or at an IPA event, I was working on what was for me another highlight of the summer. The big bad project. Essentially we were split into teams and given a brief to research and present to a panel of agency VIPs. Not for the faint-hearted, but a fantastic experience. Take a look at the leave behind my team created (http://scr.bi/rvsTEM).

So what I’ve spent the last five minutes of your life telling you (unless you skipped to the final paragraph, in which case go back to the top of the page and read it properly) is to bloody well apply.

The IPA Ad School is one of the best, and most open schemes running- you don’t need any advertising experience, just enthusiasm.

So go on. Apply here. Get on it.

It could just be the best decision of your life.

And if you’re still not convinced, or could just use a bit of advice, tweet me @philipabrook.

I don’t bite.

Cannes Lions 2012

2012-02-22T10:11:00.001Z

We spied in the Guardian today that the paper has launched its annual competition to find bright young talent to represent the UK at the internationally renowned Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity 2012.

Entrants are given a brief by a charity, and assigned 48 hectic hours to crack it. The UK will be sending four teams, representing Media, Cyber, Print and Marketing.

Your entries will be judged by a host of the country's finest creative minds, incuding those from agencies such as DDB and TBWA, and clientside execs from both the Guardian and big retailers. Entrants must form a team of two, and be currently participating in the industry.

It's a phenomenal chance to have your work presented to, and potentially used by, a charity, as well as an all expenses paid trip to arguably the most exciting and glamorous festival in the world. Think you've got what it takes? Buddy up and go to www.guardian.co.uk/canneslions to apply. Bonne chance!

GADABOUT: Live from Social Media Week

2012-02-15T16:55:00.000Z

Today I went along to one of the many, many events taking place in London (and across the globe) in the name of Social Media Week. In true social networking style, SMW is livestreaming a great number of their events online here - and if you're in the capital, check the site for last minute tickets, many of which are free, for the closing days. The extensive schedule is certainly worth a look.

SMW describes itself as being on a mission to explore how modern communities, societies, and entire cultures are embracing new communication networks to empower themselves. I attended a session entitled, 'Social Media: Teenage of the Species', which tackled the thorny issue of the effect all of this digital development, and increasing reliance on social media, is having on Generation Y.

We heard from three speakers, each of whom could contribute to the debate from very different standpoints. Dr Barbie Clarke, MD of Family Kids and Youth, kicked off the session with an overview of the science involved. Did you know that the human brain only reaches full development between the ages of 21 and 25? That a massive 30% of children aged 9 to 11 in the EU are online? And that we are most heavily influenced by our peers aged 10-14, after which we fling off the social shackles and start trying things out for ourselves? These are key messages for any brand looking to market themselves to a teenage audience. Interestingly, she also observed that Twitter - which evolved after Facebook - is now the network of choice for young teens, who are keen to step out of the shadows of their Facebook-using older siblings. Classic familial rivalry at its finest.

Next, Mark Hindle, Communications Manager at Nokia, ran us through some of the things that have and haven't been working for the mobile giant, which relies on a 'cool' image to market itself to young people. He noted the increasingly short attention span of teens, whose proximity to multiple devices 24/7 has created a new hurdle for marketeers seeking moments of valuable engagement. He advocated finding partners in the business world, and showed the recent example of the Lumia 800 launch held in conjunction with Deadmau5, lighting up the Millbank Tower with 4D visuals. How did they get there? The campaign creators had to 'dig into realtime' to gauge what would and wouldn't hook the right audience. In this instance, the trawling certainly paid off, with a huge, free event that had infinite share-ability in the digital space.

Finally, Chris Ward ran us through some of the key learnings he has found from marketing all manner of things to a young audience - in recent times, Comic Relief; the 1GOAL initiative; and now Blue Dot, encouraging people to donate their time and efforts to charity in return for exclusive rewards. With so much experience to talk about, it was a little hard to keep up; a couple of essential catchphrases I caught were:

Realtime is primetime
Identify a moment for engagement, and a single goal for that moment (Nokia's Lumia/Deadmau5 fits this perfectly)
Tell them a million times
Throw enough mud (take Angry Birds - it famously took Rovio fifty one attempts to create a killer game app)
Get a good opponent (how much do teens love fighting the record companies' top bet for Christmas No.1?)
Share something live every single day

And interestingly, should you want an example of successful marketing in the music industry, he recommends you look at Ed Sheeran...(and if not, there's always Justin Bieber).

I won't add too much more to an already exhaustive post, only to say that the 'Top 3' messages given by the panel at the end of the session were wonderfully contradictory. Dr Clarke warned us to remember that teens are children, still vulnerable; Mark told marketers to keep it real and treat teens like adults; while Chris said the answer to success is in Facebook collaboration. A fascinating topic, that is clearly still as indecipherable as teen angst.

Red Rose Business Weekend 2012

2012-02-15T12:08:00.001Z

Want to get recognised by Saatchi & Saatchi? Sign up to Lancaster University Management School's Red Rose Business Weekend...

From 2nd to 4th March 2012 Lancaster University Management School is holding the Red Rose Business Weekend, in which some of the brightest, most ambitious and eager students compete in business challenges against other top universities, for the chance to win £1000!

The competitors will demonstrate their team-working skills, creative analytical thinking, presentation skills and problem solving abilities to succeed in this competition.

All weekend expenses will be covered by Lancaster University Management School Association, except the travel costs.

Sign up now with a team of 4 at http://redrosebusinessweekend.co.uk/

The closing date for applications is 17th February 2012.

Good luck!

Well done

2012-02-14T15:11:00.001Z

If you think Search marketing might just be your thing, then you should be applying to take part in Steak's upcoming Interns Day, taking place on 24th February. Selected candidates will have the opportunity to hear what SEO and PPC are all about, before being whisked off for face-to-face interviews for an intern position at the agency.

More information and how to apply here, but be quick as closing deadline is next Wednesday 22nd.

IPA Graduate Recruitment Fair

2012-02-13T17:29:00.001Z

The IPA was buzzing with ambition and excitement last Friday when it held its first Graduate Recruitment Fair. One of the IPA President Nicola Mendelsohn’s main agenda points is the Future of Talent, which is a perfect opportunity for grads to get a leg up into the industry by signing up to the IPA Talent Pool.

About 90 third year students poured into the IPA to hear talks from leading men and women in the industry. They heard from Chris Whitelaw (President, I Spy) who talked about the abundant opportunities in Search. Due to the ever-changing media landscape towards online marketing, this is a fast-growing career path that few grads may be aware of. (Click here to see Chris's presentation.) This was followed by the hugely enthusiastic Sam Phillips from Omnicom Media Group. Sam explained the benefits of working for a worldwide group and the intricacies of a life in media.

The students then broke for lunch, networking with agencies and participating in group sessions. Following this they heard a talk from Julian Douglas from VCCP about his agency and the creative opportunities therein. (Click here for Julian's presentation.) Finally, Marc Giusti from Leo Burnett gave a highly inspiring talk advising grads to grab every opportunity; be a virus, not a host. And just GO FOR IT.

Some of these students were invited by the IPA to this fantastic opportunity to hear from the best and network with recruiting agencies because they had signed up to the IPA’s Talent Pool -- a brand new scheme in association with Top Employers Publishing (http://www.topemployers.co.uk/) which allows students to upload their CV to a database and be invited to future events like this one. Sign up now.

Intern at Credos

2012-02-13T14:53:00.000Z

If the traditional graduate roles of agency account management and planning doesn't quite fit your agenda, here's an interesting internship that has arisen at Credos. They're an independently-governed think tank, covering all things advertising, and work on a lot of big research projects including advertising and body confidence, alcohol marketing and the economic value of our industry.

If you're a student on a course related to advertising, and fancy a paid internship either on a part-time basis during term time or full-time during the holidays, apply by sending your CV and cover letter to info@credos.org.uk

For more information, see http://www.credos.org.uk/For-students

Homegrown Talent

2012-02-06T12:17:00.000Z

A very cool video surfaced on my twitter feed this morning, giving a great insight into life at global agency BBH:

If you like what you see, and think there's a seat with your name on it just waiting for you at the agency, skip on over to www.bbhhomegrown.co.uk and apply for a placement.

Ogilvy Healthworld Fellowship

2012-02-02T10:23:00.004Z

The clever people at Ogilvy Healthworld have been in touch with information about their 2-year development programme, which should appeal to grads who can't quite decide if they're in love with science or deeply attracted to brands. Blurb below...

Opportunities for Graduates, Healthcare Communications, London/Oxford (£competitive package)

Ogilvy Healthworld provides strategic, creative and tactical campaigns for a number of top-tier clients, including many of the biggest names in the pharmaceutical industry. And it’s precisely because of our belief in original thinking, bold ideas, and good old-fashioned creativity that we’ve enjoyed so much success doing what we do.

At its heart, Ogilvy Healthworld’s UK team comprises over 200 healthcare communication specialists across advertising, clinical-trial management, digital, medical education, market access, public relations as well as strategy & planning. And we are now looking for bright, brilliant graduates to join our 2-year Professional Development Programme.

Successful candidates will possess a variety of skills – some will be scientific, others will have a passion for brand marketing, but all will have a demonstrable interest in healthcare as well as excellent writing and communication skills. Being nice is also good.

In return, you will receive a competitive salary package and a dedicated mentor to steer your career development. You’ll work hard, but you’ll have a lot of fun while you’re doing it.

Visit us to apply and find out more, and follow us on twitter.

IPA Ad School 2012 - Applications Now Open

2012-02-01T15:20:00.000Z

Many of you may have heard about the IPA's prestigious internship programme which runs for 8 weeks in July and August. There are three programmes, two of which have just opened their applications today.

The Client Service/Planning programme and the Creative programme run from the 2nd July - 24th August providing those lucky few with the opportunity to get a taste of agency life whilst working alongside some of the key figures in the advertising and marketing communications industry.

This really is a fantastic way to kick start your career; over 50% of those who have taken part over the last 6 years are now working in the industry.

Please follow this link to find out more, and how to apply: http://www.ipa.co.uk/adschool

The third programme which is in its first year, is Search. Details of this can be found on the above link and applications open on the 1st March. Stay tuned for more info!

As always, good luck!

GADABOUT: 44 Club: Silicon Valley meets Silicon Roundabout

2012-01-27T10:57:00.001Z

This week Rosie Lewis (@Rosie_Lew), copywriter at the School of Communication Arts, gives us her scoop on the IPA's mission to Silicon Valley.

On the 24^th January 2012 my creative partner andI stood like ants outside the very tall and grandiose Microsoft HQ. We lookedup, all that glass, all those important people inside. We quaked in our bootsand did the only thing any graduate in their right mind would. We thought aboutfood. The event was 6.00pm until 8:00pm. Would snacks be provided? Should wehave eaten before? We stepped back from the shadow of 100 Victoria Street andinstead headed to the Mecca of M+S. We returned only once we were sufficientlysupplied with enough sugar to rot a child’s teeth.

We were ready.

Up the escalators, over the bridge, through the wall ofglass and across the lobby; we arrived. The first small nugget of joy came inthe form of a badge. Not just any badge. It had my name on it. In print. Whenyou are a student, no-one gives you badges: especially not printed hard plasticones. The most you can expect is a sticker on which you write your name. This was going to be a great evening.

After taking advantage of the free orange juice and crisps(tip: eat before you arrive) we spotted someone. We edged forward to introduce ourselves. Wehad to introduce ourselves. How could we miss the chance to speak to NICOLAMENDELSOHN (*insert girly squeal here*). President of the IPA, Chairman ofKarmarama, Mentor at our amazing School of Communication Arts, the list goeson. This was better than the badges.This was better than a 1000 badges. We nervously introduced ourselves. All Ican say is Nicola is fab. She immediately put us at ease and talked to us aboutthe school, the upcoming talk and our taste in clothes. No sooner were the stars fading from oureyes, than we were shuffled into a large conference room for the event.

My new mate Nicola Mendelsohn kicked off the event bytalking about the future of the IPA and the trip that had inspired the event.16 Agencies spent 5 days in Hollywood and Silicon Valley visiting 17 Companies.The representatives who were chosen to recount their tales for us were MarcNohr, CEO, Kitcatt Nohr Digitas; Alex Altman, CEO, Initiative and NickyUnsworth, Managing Director, BJL Group.

Marc Nohr was the first up. Introduced as the speaker with the least twitter followers, I did thedecent thing and followed him before he even started talking. His twitter nameis @MarcNohr if you want to add him to stop him being singled out in thefuture. My follow was not in vain. He walked the captive audience through 5 clearthemes and bundles of facts, figures and anecdotes. My favourite sound bites were that we shouldalways be in Beta, ‘Test, Test, Test’, and ‘Now beats later, simple beatscomplicated’. Marc ended his talk by noting that, ‘even in Silicon Valleypeople still struggle with Powerpoints’. A unanimous giggle filled the room,and some sighs of relief.

Nic was back now (you know my best bud Nicola Mendelsohn),to introduce Alex Altman. This talk really inspired me. Alex talked about theattitude to failure in Silicon Valley. ‘If you are not prepared to fail you arenot trying hard enough’. As a graduate the last thing you want to do is fail.We constantly have to work hard to beat out the other 2:1 (and maybe even 1:1)graduates from Russell Group universities. However, is the competition stoppingus taking risks? Perhaps, we are instead all blending in with our identikiteducation and work experience. What would happen if we tried somethingdifferent? My brain was whirring and my hand simultaneously typing tweets andwriting words. The last note from Alex was a quote from 20^th CenturyFox, ‘We are training the young for jobs that don’t yet even exist’. The worldhas changed so much in the last five years with advances in technology andsocial media. Who knows how the last half-decade will shape the next...thinkabout it.

Then there was one. Nicky Unsworth. She had the most twitterfollowers and was the only one to talk about what happened when she came backfrom the trip and how it changed her work life. Nicky now collaborates more, has more external speakers come in to theoffice and is being braver. Another important lesson was to create the time andspace to work. Finally Nicky commented on the importance of creating our ownpersonal brand using social media.

My brand was going great, my new bff (you know, NicolaMendelsohn) tweeted saying I was fab - not to mention I had learnt so much, andall in two hours.

I may have even convinced the Dean of my school, Marc Lewis, to stop his odiousgame of making us stand up one by one and make up a line to a song. We foundout Karmarama does a sing-a-long but I pointed out to him they did not do solosor make up words. Let us hope he reconsiders his own particular version ofconfidence building.

Overall we had the most eye-opening night. I regaled all myfriends at the School of Communication Arts the next day with tales, quotes andanecdotes, and boy were they jealous.

Graduate Intern Wanted For Top SEO Agency

2012-01-25T10:23:00.001Z

Here's an internship (with the possibility of a permanent position) that's come up at DBD Media for a smart grad interested in SEO and PPC search marketing. The three month placement will suit someone with a desire to work at the more technical end of digital marketing, with a demonstrable interest in websites, search engines and social media. It's a varied role, so expect to experience the industry from all angles.

This is an excellent opportunity for a bright, ambitious graduate to get their first experience of working in a search engine marketing and social media agency environment.

The full listing can be found here, on IPA Jobs.
To apply, they say:

- Email us at seointern@dbdmedia.co.uk, with Graduate SEO Internship as the Subject line
- Attach your CV to the email.
- Please include A level grades and degree level in your CV.
- Attach a letter of no more than 500 words telling us:
1. Why you are interested in a career in SEO?
2. What websites do you think are really effective, and why?

3. Type “leather sofa” into Google – briefly describe the different elements of the search results page and tell us what you think about them

The deadline for applications is the 17th February.

Ogilvy Summer Fellowship 2012

2012-01-24T10:28:00.000Z

On this dismal day it makes sense to be looking ahead to sunnier summer times. If you're on the hunt for an internship to fill the long student vacay, look no further than the Ogilvy Summer Fellowship, which opened today.

Ogilvy is one of the biggest agencies in the world, and successful Fellowship candidates will complete two consecutive four-week placements across two of its companies - any discipline from project management to healthcare to TV production. It's a unique opportunity to see beyond the walls of a single job role and experience AdLand from all angles.

Go to the Ogilvy website to download the application form - deadline is 20th February, so turn it around quick. Interviews are set for week commencing 26th March.

Good luck all!

IPA Ad School hits Southampton

2012-01-20T17:15:00.000Z

Here's a report from the field by the IPA Ad School team -- if you're interested in applying to one of the schemes for a placement in an ad agency this summer, check out www.ipa.co.uk/adschool.

The IPA Ad School 'dream team' (Chris Whitson, SFW; Neil Francis, SFW; and Chris Whitelaw, I Spy) travelled to Southampton University today to give the latest in IPA Ad School promotional talks to students.

Talking to a packed-out lecture theatre, the three founders spoke about what the Ad School can offer. 8 weeks immersed in a top London agency plus some unique opportunities to network and hear from the best in the industry through fascinating evening sessions. The founders explained that this makes the IPA's programmes unique. In fact, the Search programme is totally unique: there is nothing like it in the whole Search industry.

Over a much needed pint afterwards, the three founders agreed they could expect exceptional applicants from Southampton judging by the quality of questions asked and the amount of students who stayed behind to introduce themselves. Chris Whitson explained that those are the sorts of students which stand out - the ones that go above and beyond the ordinary.

The founders agreed that the school would be greatly expanded this year and cannot wait to get the successful second round applicants in to the IPA for the famous 'Speed Dating Interviews'.

The applications for the Client Service/Planning programme and the Creative programme open on 1st February and the Search programme opens on 1st March.

For more information: www.ipa.co.uk/adschool

Saatchi & Saatchi: Brief 1

2012-01-20T10:46:00.002Z

Having attracted an astounding number of likes, and a group the size of the population of the Falkland Islands (thank God Wikipedia was back for that one), we are pleased to see that the first Saatchi brief is live!

Your challenge, should you wish to accept it, is to 'make someone unknown the next internet celebrity'.

Stumped? See modern gems such as 'Sh*t my Dad Says' and www.whatkatiewore.com for inspiration, and get a Facebook fanpage going in honour of your 'celeb'. You'll need to submit the link to said group by MIDNIGHT on 10th February (for full details see the Saatchi Facebook page or website). Competition will, as always, be fierce, so best of luck to you all!

The Gradvertising Industry

2012-01-05T10:37:00.000Z

Today we have an exclusive interview from a young man living the grad scheme dream. Tom Wrigley is a third of the way through the graduate scheme at Weapon7, an integrated agency in the Omnicom group, and is experiencing a whole host of departments and roles in his training. On the side, Tom writes a blog - Gradvertising - which gives students and grads an insight into the day-to-day goings-on at an agency.

· Describe your current job in 140 characters or less

o As a Weapon7 Graduate Trainee I spend 12 months on a rotational scheme across 7 different departments, inc. Planning, Account Handling and Creative.

· Best experience on the job so far…

o Meeting Michael Schumacher on my first day, going to a GQ fashion photoshoot, and the fact that a point-of-sale visual I helped to project manage is now displayed in every UK smart car retailer.

· And the harshest reality to date?

o Finding out that lunch in The Ivy isn’t an everyday occurrence.

· What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt?

o From my placements in Project Management and Creative Technology, I’ve experienced the daily life (and frustrations) of both departments, and so have begun to understand the importance of respecting time constraints and deadlines whilst not stifling creativity. Equally, the transition from University to working in a professional environment is not one that should be underestimated!

· Thousands of grads compete for the same jobs each year. How can you get yourself noticed?

o I’ve created a website dedicated to helping grads and undergrads break into the industry, and this is one of the key issues I have identified. I would suggest that grads take a look at the site, as it offers advice on this topic from a variety of graduates based in different agencies, as well as professionals who receive applications on a daily basis. The website can be found here http://gradvertising7.wordpress.com/

· If you didn’t work in advertising, what would you be doing?

o I’d like to think I would have spent a couple of years travelling and would have continued to live abroad. In reality, I would have probably spent my time switching between Jeremy Kyle and watching old episodes of Friends on my parents’ sofa.

· Any words of wisdom for the class of 2012?

o Apply to as many agencies and grad schemes as possible, ensure that your applications are bespoke and relevant to each agency, be yourself, and demonstrate your enthusiasm and passion for the marketing communications industry. I’d also suggest checking the Gradvertising blog for weekly updates.

Look on the bright side

2011-12-22T10:02:00.000Z

Right you creative whizz kids, Christmas has come early for you. Brightley-Hodges Associates are offering design students the opportunity to go on a nine-month scheme in their Kent-based agency. It's kicking off in January 2012, so to apply head over to apply asap.

The BHA Academy offers a nine month apprenticeship style scheme to top graphic design students to help them develop from graduate to designer in industry through a comprehensive fast-track programme in a boutique agency.

Saatchi & Saatchi Summer Scholarship 2012

2011-12-21T12:22:00.001Z

There's a whole lot of alliteration going on in that title...but if you think you're the kind of super student that Saatchis might want to suss out on their summer scholarship, then by all means, read on.

For the last three years, the agency have selected their grads after submitting them to a few rounds of gruelling creative challenges, run through their Facebook group. The ten deemed the intellectually 'fittest' are invited to the agency for six weeks to try their hand at a real role, with job offers made at the end to the lucky few who have sparkled the most.

All you can do at the current time is throw your hat into the ring (or rather, your name into the Facebook group) and await further instruction for the first brief. Skip on over to their page and hit Apply Now.

Good luck!

Publicis ADcademy 2012

2011-12-21T10:04:00.002Z

After a momentary lapse of festive partying and copious lashings of mulled wine, it's time to face the grad schemes once again. Publicis have just opened applications for their 2012 ADcademy, a week long intensive programme taking place in early April.

Publicis are one of the UK's brightest agencies, and part of a global network which continually churns out brilliant work. The ADcademy is for those looking to get into account management (sorry creatives) - for a full insight into the agency culture, head on over to their website to download their introduction to 82 Baker Street, as well as the application form.

Application deadline is 6pm on the 15th January, with interviews commencing in February. Note the actual job offers will be made after the ADcademy, with full time agency life starting in autumn 2012.

Good luck!

Advertising with Bells On

2011-12-19T11:49:00.001Z

Santa the Suit...a little festive cheer from Fold7!

IPA 1: Inspirational Foundations

2011-12-08T14:58:00.001Z

A huge thank you to Sivanne Lewis, Graduate Account Executive at DLKW Lowe, who has kindly blogged her experience of IPA 1: Inspirational Foundations course.

On the 15th and 16th of November, a group of adland’s new agency recruits walked into the IPA building looking forward to some inspirational talks, to meet some nice grads from other agencies and to incur minimal embarrassment during presentations. Our hopes were mostly exceeded.

The talks were indeed a real highlight covering topics ranging from media, to research, to strategy, to some excellent examples of recent creative work from around the world. Particularly memorable was Dave Birss’ blow-by-blow description of The Dark Knight pre-release campaign, which involved hardcore fans in an elaborate web of actions, culminating in their involvement in a heist which would (unbeknownst to them) become the opening scene of the film.

We were also treated to some great tidbits of wisdom such as, why you shouldn’t give your client a faster horse simply because they ask for one, as well as the latest adland gossip, like why some believe the baby boomer generation holds the key to future advertising success.

Some of the new media hints were also extremely useful. Especially the idea of ‘smudging’ the edges of media and letting the idea lead, brilliantly backed up by the Jay Z Decoded case study, which rather than using media, made everything into media.

Following the presentations we tackled the group task, to brief a creative team with our insights on how to sell men’s moisturiser. This was a challenge and a great chance to take on a panel of creatives in front of a room of equally nervous new execs.

With our varied forays into public speaking out of the way, everyone well and truly got into the spirit of advertising with a long night at the pub. And having recovered from that, the course left us buzzing with ideas and enthusiasm to bring back to our accounts.

Most important course take out: ‘don’t be a bandwagon douchebag!’

Big thanks to all the speakers and to the IPA for organising the two days so well.

Sock it to me

2011-12-01T15:25:00.001Z

A message from AdSoc below...

\\ Want to be AdSoc President in your University? //

AdSoc is a national network of student Advertising and Marketing societies and they are looking for top students with an entrepreneurial nature to form a new AdSoc committee in your university.

If advertising/marketing might be the career for you and you've got what it takes to launch a new student society, apply now. It will be your project, acting independently to provide speaker events and workshops to inspire and inform those interested in advertising, marketing and PR. You will be supported by the growing AdSoc network with seed funding, a website, logo and help finding contacts in the industry.

It would be an incomparable way to gain relevant experience and meet the right people at the top of the industry. Send a CV + 300 words on "how the advertising industry is regarded as a career option by students in your university" to franky@adsoc.co.uk before 23rd December to apply!

To find out more check out www.adsoc.co.uk and don't hesitate to email in with any questions.

GADABOUT: 6OneD

2011-11-30T12:14:00.001Z

6OneD - 6 Creative Directors, One Challenge, Direct Creative Excellence

This week we are pleased to introduce our first agency Gadabout, Owen Lee from Starcom MediaVest Group, who attended the IPA's DM Group event.

Gadabout brings you the inside scoop on industry events, attended and written by AdLand grads.

On the 28^th November 2011, six of the Direct Marketing sector’s most creative and accomplished minds[1] walked out onto the dimly lit Charing Cross stage. Their challenge? To address an issue that currently faces all those involved in the DM sector - creative excellence.

The evening kicked off with each panellist presenting a DM case study in an attempt to woo the audience into deeming their proffered piece the best DM campaign.

A variety of campaigns were submitted to the house, ranging from Wunderman’s sublimely simple “Hitchhiker” campaign for The AA, to the cross-platform Tour de Force of Nike/Livestrong’s “Chalkbot” campaign. Ultimately, Sav’s submission of how ROM (a chocolate bar) incited patriotism across the entire nation of Romania was victorious – though personally I liked the Chalkbot campaign (see [2] for a list of the other campaigns – have a look and see what your favourite is).

Having adequately roused the minds of the collective, the second – more interactive half - of the evening got underway. The floor was opened up with the goal of inducing industry furthering discussion and debate. A goal that was undoubtedly achieved.

Prior to recent initiatives such as 6OneD, the DM industry and those who make it up have often found themselves outshouted by the more grandiose ATL agencies that typically dominate pitch shortlists. Those at 6OneD however relished the opportunity to not only celebrate DM creativity, but discuss industry-wide issues and seek ways to address them.

The main takeout I obtained from the seminar was that whilst in the modern Adland agencies of varying natures are competing for the same space, there will always be room for DM.

The current reluctance of DMarketeers to be courageous in their copy or (in comparison to ATL agencies) shout about it when they do, results in a lack of client appreciation for the craft. So in order to remedy this, in what is becoming an increasingly cross-media/platform industry, DM must take the opportunity to push creativity, be audacious, and blur their “line” position that currently stigmatises them.

Overall, the evening was great, and the debate appeared to be highly constructive for all that attended. With the IPA offering DM a forum in which to exercise their voice, I doubt it’ll be long before they’re shouting loud and proud about their creative excellence. It’ll be a challenge, but one which all at 6OneD are clearly are fired up for. Epitomising the vibe of the room was Nicky Bullard’s simple statement: “Bring it on.”

Owen Lee (@oven121), Starcom MediaVest

Click here for more photos from the event.

[1] The panel: Cooking and book loving sportophobe Caitlin Ryan, Executive Creative Director of Proximity; failed spy with a love of young “talent” Neil Francis, Creative Director of SFW; youthful playwright-to-be Nicky Bullard, Creative Director of LIDA, tech-loving (aka nerd) Rik Haslam, Chief Creative Officer at RAPP, (I couldn’t find anything out about him from his bio) Sav Evangelou, Executive Creative Director, Kittcatt Nohr Digitas; and finally, a man who’s magnificently overcome his self-confessed permanently poor hairstyle, Steve Aldridge, Co-Founder, Creative Partner and Chairman of Partners Andrews Aldridge.

[2] Others including the nationalistic “The American ROM” campaign, the subliminally Direct “Live Rescue” campaign, the e-comedic “HP ePrint Live” campaign, and T-Mobile’s recent Parking Ticket campaign – don’t ask me how Neil managed to convince us this was DM, but he did.

GADABOUT - IPA MOAs 2011

2011-11-22T15:06:00.002Z

We've been a bit busy this week, so excuse the delay in bringing you our report back from the MOAs - our inaugural Online Media Owner Awards, held at Delfina. We were treated to some beatbox beats from host Beardyman, and in the name of all things digital, tried our hand at the virtual graffiti wall (note: caricatures are no kinder in digital form).

A big congratulations to all of our MOA winners - with big names in the audience such as Facebook and News International, we were celebrating the huge part media owners play in the advertising process. Thanks also go to the extremely rare but party-loving pink MOA bird, who was mostly found tearing up the dancefloor and will be back next season to award more media success!

For more photos from the event, see the IPA Facebook page.

IPA Talent Pool and Perspectives

2011-11-18T11:56:00.000Z

Interested in a career in advertising? The IPA has two new exciting additions to our careers page to help you on your way.

IPA Talent Pool: If you want to be discovered by recruiters at our member agencies, which include the top advertising and marketing agencies in the UK, register your information to our Talent Pool database at http://www.ipa.co.uk/TalentPool

Perspectives: Recently launched on the IPA Careers page, Perspectives is an informational resource about exciting opportunities in advertising. Perspectives contains information about different careers in advertising, feature-length interviews with industry game-changers, and general advice from advertising executives. Perspectives is available online and will continue to grow as more profiles and interviews are added.

Good luck!

A day in the life of a Graphic Designer Grad

2011-11-10T11:47:00.000Z

I’m Laura Vandenbergh, the curious Graphic Designer Grad at Saatchi X (@saatchixgrads). I’m originally from Antwerp, Belgium and have a passion for advertising, design, fashion and art. I studied Graphic Design at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp, Belgium. But, it’s in my blood to always want more, and look for new adventures. So last year I decided to follow my heart and move to London. I wanted to finish my degree in another language and immerse myself in a totally new environment. I’ve always loved London, and I feel more inspired by it every day.

To find out about Laura's experience at Saatchi X, read on after the break...

The design graduate

Soon after finishing my intense final major project at my Graphic Design course, I’m back in the race again. This time it is not a case of pass, merit, distinction, but a case of proving myself in the real world.

Traveling in style

Every morning I make my (not so glamorous) way to work. I might wear my high heels, but my new favorite accessory is my all black mountain bike. I know, why not go by tube? London has the most elaborate underground system, but as much as I would like, it’s also very expensive for a shopaholic graduate girl like me so I was very happy to find out the Saatchi building has a big and safe bike parking space, and even happier when I found out even some of the top people who work here, come by bike. Well if anything makes a Belgian girl happy, except for chocolate and Belgian waffles, it would be seeing lots of other fellow cyclists. After switching my not so charming biker shorts into my pencil skirt another work injected day at Saatchi X can begin.

Cartoons?

The first ‘brief’ I got as a designer, was from my 3 other graduate colleagues. As you probably noticed, we set up a blog, Facebook, Twitter… to make sure none of you will look past our great adventures at Saatchi X. So one of my parts was to design a cartoon for every single one of us as well as designing the look and feel of the blog together with Emily, our Art Director Graduate.

“A cartoon, Uhm…” that was the first thing I thought. As you can see at my portfolio site here (http://cargocollective.com/snakeskinjacket), my “design style” doesn’t immediately lend itself to cartoons. But hey, as the Saatchi X slogan clearly states, ‘Nothing Is Impossible’, and the cool thing working in an agency like this is being able to do as many different creative things as possible. I took the challenge and created the images, which you can see online. After including them in our presentation to the Worldwide CEO I received a lot of positive feedback.

Design and more

My agenda is a lofty list of meetings, inductions, briefs, book-buying trips, lunches and coffees. Reading this, I instantly wondered, “would there be any time to do any designing?” However, I quickly learned all of this is a big challenge in the design process but I have somehow managed to find time to execute my designs. I have already been working on some very interesting projects, from designing for an internationally renowned hair care brand, to re-branding an identity for a charity and of course working on a Smirnoff brief, together with the 3 other grads.
One of the first briefs I was given was to design the layout of the Saatchi & Saatchi X Creative Agenda for 2012. Big first brief right? That’s what I thought too. Luckily I’ve got an amazing mentor to guide me, Georgia. She is the head of design at Saatchi X, and believe me, there’s a reason for that. She has an amazing sense of style and a very impressing background (from New York to Paris). I was very relieved when we noticed our tastes in good design synced, and it felt a bit less scary to start designing the new Creative Agenda. After the design bounced between me, the Head of Design, Executive Creative Director and our CEO it was finally approved, and my first ‘Saatchi X baby’ was born. Let’s hope lots of them may follow!

Again, I’m at the start of a new week already, things you enjoy always seem to go faster, and that’s definitely what is happening here. Working in a place with such a fast pace and creative vibe really gives me a lot of energy. If there’s one thing I have learned about working here, it’s that you do need a lot of energy and passion to keep going. But if you are one of the lucky people like me who have this in their blood, I can only tell you one thing: go for it, you won’t regret it.

Elvis Grads

2011-11-08T10:11:00.000Z

The King (sorry) of grad schemes has just opened, offering account exec types a chance to work at an award-winning creative agency. They're looking for charismatic people who will be guided through the programme by a personal mentor - you'll get a taste of every department and discipline, have a shot at presenting and graduate as a fully fledged account handler.

There's an application form to be filled in, to be found on Facebook; once you're done, send it to grads@elviscommunications.com by 2nd January 2012.

Good luck!

Reach your Zenith

2011-11-03T11:55:00.001Z

More interested in media? See yourself within one of the biggest groups in the world? ZenithOptimedia might just be for you.

Routinely voted one of the top companies to work for, Zenith has a strong record in graduate recruitment, taking on 50 grads throughout the year (perfect for those of us less adept with mega deadlines...). All grads attend an intensive training scheme, and you by no means need to be a 'meeja' grad to apply - interest and enthusiasm are the way forward.

You'll need to register online at their Talent Hub - from there you'll be able to find out all of the roles available and how to apply.

Start your engines...

2011-11-02T14:26:00.004Z

Sorry about the embarassing pun. But I'm going to make up for it as it's time to get your apps in for Engine's grad scheme. Lucky successful candidates will get to spend three months in four of the group's different companies, providing the invaluable opportunity to work out exactly which discipline is right for you.

Our commitment to you is that you will be at the heart of a fast moving, hard working and lively environment where every day promises to be different. We will deliver a huge amount of training to ensure you get up to speed quickly and continue to develop your skills across 4 very different disciplines before deciding on your career path

So if you have a strong academic record, excellent written, oral and presentation skills, creativity, initiative and passion, we want to hear from you.

So get into gear (I did it again..) and head over here for all the info and to apply.

CHI & Partners 2012

2011-11-02T09:56:00.000Z

CHI & Partners have opened their grad scheme, with a truly integrated offering for grads looking to try it all. Successful applicants will spend time not only at CHI, but across The Social Practice, MCHI and The Box, gaining a comprehensive insight into digital, social media, direct marketing plus media planning and buying.

You'll need to answer a couple of questions on the website, and attach your CV; deadline for applications is 25th November, with first interviews to be held on 9th December.

Good luck!

44 Club: The Trends Obsessing David Rowan

2011-10-31T10:20:00.000Z

Welcome to Gadabout! Our newest feature on Gradvantage will see us, as well as some of the industry's newest graduate faces, sent out to a variety of industry events. Our mission? To report back with all the news, insights and gossip from AdLand.

Last week we congregated at the IPA 44 Club hosted by David Rowan, trend-spotter and storyteller extraordinaire, whose task it is to track the waves of influence that change our behavior for Wired magazine, among others. A huge audience packed into the ICA to hear some home truths about the sheer scope of the Big Data age, and how we, lowly humans, can harness some of its digital goodness and use it to improve our own lifestyles.

Kicking off with a video circa 1967, entitled ‘Shopping from Home – 1999AD’ (click here to view), David explained that whilst the technology may look different (we’re talking house-sized computers vs. the infinite Cloud) the aims of the human developer remain the same – simplification and improvement. We’re simple beings, really, and work hard at reworking our own huge technological gains to make daily life that little bit less stressful for ourselves.

No trend report would be complete without the current magic buzz word – SoLoMo, the heady mix of social, local and mobile that venture capitalists are currently clawing over. The money, Rowan says, is to be found in forging a social path to an existing industry. Take Trippy, an American site that reminds you somewhat of TripAdvisor. But it’s not – Trippy goes beyond the realm of random recommendations and extracts relevant information on your planned trip from your social networks – making those recommendations personal to you. Not only are your recommendations better, those who do the recommending gain the critical validation that has come to drive much of our online behavior.

Klout, a site that determines your online social prowess, is big business – people want to know how influential they are, for the sheer glow of knowing and being able to advertise their ‘number’. The lure of competition against one’s peers is a constant, and apparently translates well to the virtual world our social selves live in. The iEgo, as it were, is alive and well.Privacy, unsurprisingly, is a lost cause. Arguably worse still, it is now a tradable commodity. Not only are companies fighting to get their hands on us for sales, but all of us are apparently game for flaunting our talents and possessions to become the ‘boss’ of our own human enterprise. With frictionless platforms so readily available, we are cutting out the incumbent agencies of business that hold traditional places within our society – and fast.Rowan left the evening on an optimistic note for the younger generation of 44 Clubbers, quoting Douglas Adams on the notion that inventions made between our fifteenth and thirty-fifth years are the most exciting. We may look in wonder at the ‘old-fashioned’ look of ‘1999AD’, wonder indeed what our own kind were thinking, but the truth is, this is only just the beginning.

BMB - Skype your way to success

2011-10-28T15:39:00.003+01:00

BMB made it clear last year they wanted to look further afield for the best new additions to their agency. And this year, they're taking it further -- in their words, they want to "democratise the interview process by letting anyone who wants an interview, have one."
So fire up Skype and clear your diary on Thursday 17th November -- BMB's 7-minute interview day. I'll let the blurb speak for itself, but needless to say this will be an interesting foray into new ways of finding great talent.

At BMB we have begun to feel that the world of entry level positions in London ad agencies can often feel like a bit of a closed shop to anyone who hasn't been to a red brick uni. But we believe in trying to find and attract the very best new talent to the advertising industry, regardless of their educational background. So, for the second year running, we're opening our grad scheme to non-grads and giving people the kind of face time that they might not be guaranteed solely off the back of their CV.

The plan is to democratise the interview process by turning on our webcams for one day only (on the 17th November), letting any potential recruits dial us for a 7 minute Skype interview. Bringing the process into the 21st Century with an interactive gaming mechanic, applicants will be invited to spin a virtual roulette wheel to determine which one of 4 BMBers they will be speaking to.

If you think this one's for you, make sure your webcam's working then head over here for all the details.

All Grown Up

2011-10-24T14:54:00.002+01:00

As the deadlines rack up for 2012 applicants to AdLand, let's take a minute to consider the exhausted yet exhilerated grads who have made it through this year's training. Here's a short but sweet post from the McCademists, passing on their top tips to those of you about to embark on the ride: http://mccademy.wordpress.com/2011/10/21/final-week-final-post/

WCRS&Co Creative Placement

2011-10-18T10:27:00.003+01:00

Hello, creatives.

If you've been feeling a little left out of late, here's one for you (and your partner if you're already a creative team).

At WCRS&Co we’re all about new talent, new thinking.
We want fresh, interesting, original ideas people for our creative department.

If you think you’re up to scratch then have a crack at joining our placement scheme.

We take on two teams (although talented individuals are also considered) at any one time for placements of 1 month. You’ll get to work on a range of famous brands tackling a variety of briefs.
At this stage, your attitude is as important as your work.

If you prove yourself on both counts then you could extend the placement to 3 months. And if you’re top notch, you might even get hired. Here’s how our placement programme works…

More info and how to apply here.

RKCR Y&R Advertising Trainees 2012

2011-10-17T16:35:00.000+01:00

'Gird your loins, sharpen your wits and do whatever else it takes...' - it's their advice, not ours, but the time is nigh to get applying to the RKCR/Y&R Advertising Trainee Programme, starting September 2012.

Aimed mainly at account management types, you'll need creativity, lateral thinking ability and problem-solving potential, alongside the curiosity and drive required by all prospective suits.

The form can be found here, and they'll also want a copy of your CV. Submissions need to be made by 23:00 on October 24th (yes that's a week from today) so step to it. Any questions, issues or nightmares along the way, drop their team a line at grads@uk.yr.com.

Good luck!

AMV Academy

2011-10-13T10:18:00.000+01:00

The AMV Academy is now open! This year the agency is running its recruitment completely through facebook, so skip on over to their page and click the Academy tab for all the info. In a nutshell, it's a
comprehensive grad scheme kicking off with an 8 week immersion programme to get you up to scratch with the industry, followed by 12 months of continuous learning, skills-building and great support from the team. See the 'Meet our Grads' section on facebook for a full lowdown from previous grad intakes.

The deadline for applications is 6pm on 4th November; in the meantime, if you want to find out more about AMV apply for a place at their Open Day on Friday 21st October.

Good luck!

DLKW Lowe Grad Scheme 2012

2011-10-11T14:10:00.001+01:00

If you hadn't already caught a glimpse of it on IPA Jobs Online, the DLKW Lowe graduate scheme is now open for a September 2012 start.

Offering a full training programme, major live accounts, and real interaction with senior staff, it's a thorough and valuable start in advertising (and promises additional perks such as pub quizzes, in-agency massages and bake-offs, nonetheless).

If it sounds like your cup of tea, download the application form here and get it back to the agency by midday on Wednesday 9th November.

WPP Fellowship 2012

2011-10-11T10:41:00.002+01:00

It's the grande dame of graduate schemes, back for another year. The WPP Marketing Fellowship is a unique and intensive programme that will take up three whole years - but what epic years they will be. Designed to give grads a solid insight into all sides of the business, WPP will rotate their Fellows through a range of its companies, chosen according to the individual's interests and strengths. A single Fellow could find themselves jetsetting around the world to learn trendspotting at The Futures Company, or planning at JWT, or copywriting for the chaps at Ogilvy in China - with this one, the world is quite literally your oyster. Competition for the Fellowship is notoriously tough, but to quote JWT themselves, you've never been one to shy away from a challenge.

Click HERE to reach the application login; deadline is 10th November, for a September 2012 start. WPP are also running a Fellowship scheme for anyone who will be completing an MBA this year, so if you're in that boat click over here (note the deadline for this one is 19th October, so get your skates on).

As always, good luck!

#ogilvyopennight

2011-10-10T14:55:00.001+01:00

Act now!

A quickfire mission for you grads: Ogilvy are giving away places to attend their Open Night on 10th November, for both budding account managers and planners. All you need to do is tweet @Ogilvy_Fellows the reason why YOU should be there. Places will also be given to those who manage to spread the word furthest across the twittersphere, so go on, get loud. #ogilvyopennight

The Founding of The Foundry

2011-10-10T14:34:00.005+01:00

Another deadline for your diaries, the Leo Burnett Graduate Foundation Programme (more commonly known as 'The Foundry') is now open and accepting applications for both account handling and planning.

The lucky chosen ones will experience life within one of the country's top agencies whilst working with their fellow grads as a tight-knit, micro-agency unit, encompassing handlers, planners and creatives.

So what do they want to know? Download the application form here and have a go at their creatively challenging questions; once you're done, submit it by 28th October and tensely await your verdict

Note that this scheme has a fast turnaround, with the job commencing on 16th January 2012.
Don't forget to follow the agency on twitter and Facebook to keep up to date.
Good luck!

JWT Grad Scheme 2012

2011-10-10T12:13:00.003+01:00

JWT's 2012 Account Management Grad Scheme is now LIVE and kicking - and is accompanied by a rather snazzy video designed to give you a insight into what the agency is looking for. The application form can be downloaded here, the crucial deadline for submission being Wednesday 2nd November. Successful applicants will be invited to interview week commencing 21st November, and then whittled down for the two day seminar on 6th and 7th December.

If you've got more questions about the scheme that the Facebook and twitter streams can't handle, JWT will be holding an open afternoon this coming Tuesday (11th October) from 3.30-6.30pm; email london.graduaterecruitment@jwt.com to save yourself a place.

A day in the life of an Art Director Grad

2011-10-07T13:12:00.000+01:00

I’m Emily (@emilyuram) a 23 year old horse riding, flip-flop wearing, British/American girl now living in London and one fourth of the @saatchixgrads. I am the Art Director grad who won a six-week placement at Saatchi X after taking part in the ‘Lift pitch’ process where recent grads were given 30 seconds, in the lifts of Charlotte Street, to pitch why we should get the job.

To find out about Emily's experience at Saatchi X, read on after the break...

9am Every morning the four of us grads get together for breakfast and a catch up. We talk through the various projects we are working on, which is really useful as a creative because I get to hear about the accounts coming into the agency before the actual brief is written and passed down to the creative department. We’ve also started inviting along a different member of the agency to share their words of wisdom with us, which has been really inspiring and helpful.

9.30am I’ll normally spend the first hour updating our social network channels, replying to messages/emails and writing blog posts. All of us have gone through the frustration of applying for jobs and placement so it’s been really rewarding being able to offer advice and hopefully make it little bit easier for someone else by sharing our experiences.

One of the biggest challenges for me has been going from having long periods to work on a brief at uni to the agency world of a couple of days, if that, so I also like to use this hour in the morning to plan my day. I set time frames for how long I’ve got to work on each project; otherwise the day has a tendency to just disappear. Some days I stick to it a bit better than others!

10.30am The rest of my mornings are normally taken up doing research or working on briefs. At the moment I have an alcohol, charity and supermarket brief as well as additional projects such as presentations and the social media projects. At Saatchi X they really emphasize the importance of knowing your target audience and whenever possible try to brief us in an environment relevant to the brief. Bearing this in mind we headed over to a Shoreditch art gallery to get some inspiration for our latest brief.

I’ve also picked up additional briefs, which I’m working on in my free time. Even though I don’t always have as much time as I would like to dedicate to them it’s been good to get experience on as many different accounts and clients as possible plus there’s always a one of the creative team willing to give feedback. It reminds me of a good piece of advice I was given at uni. I was told after a book crit, if it all goes well, ask the creative to email you a brief to work on, then send them your ideas. It will give you a chance to work on something you might not have otherwise tried and it gives you an excuse to keep in contact with them and maybe even get a placement.

1pm Lunch is always at the Pregnant Man, our agency pub, due to its post university friendly prices. I think Wednesday has got to be the best - A full roast for £2.95, Bargain!

2pm There is normally at least one meeting in the afternoon. It seems like the creative teams spend more time in meetings talking about the work then they do actually working on it. Todays consisted of catch up with Claire Knight, the Regional Talent Director to discuss how I’m getting on, a creative review for a Diageo brief and a creative process induction.

4pm I try and break the later part of my afternoon up and work on two different briefs. I find the ideas come a little bit faster under the time pressure and it ensures work doesn’t get left until the last minute.

6.30pm(ish) The time I leave varies from day to day depending on project deadlines and workloads. Before I head off I like to do a final update of our Twitter/Facebook and email check. Being in London means there is always something on so we often end up going to events after work. Last week we took part in a two-hour charity brief and tonight we’re off to an IPA talk.

10pm(ish) Arrive home.

UNITE IV

2011-09-28T16:09:00.005+01:00

Calling all Creatives - here's another dazzling chance to get yourselves and your books in front of the critical eyes of industry insiders. UNITE is an event pioneered by the YCC, and is now returning in its 4th reincarnation to Cargo, in Shoreditch, on October 10.

There are 25 spaces for portfolios going, so if you or your creative team duo want to garner valuable advice from tip-top Creative Directors, you'll need to submit your deets by MIDNIGHT on MONDAY 3rd OCTOBER (submission info here).

UNITE has a brilliant track record of placing grads in agencies - EHS 4D are even guaranteeing one off the back of the October event - and is the perfect place to start schmoozing with the industry. Snap to it!

Want to appear in a Coca-Cola ad?

2011-09-28T09:46:00.000+01:00

Courtesy of the chaps at Mother: see here...

The McCademists of 2011

2011-09-21T08:49:00.000+01:00

Remember McCann London's McCademy scheme for budding advertising people, loyal readers? Well now six lucky 'McCademists' have set off on their McCareers, and they're documenting the whole thing on their blog here. Definitely worth keeping on your regular read list for an insight into all this grad scheme business straight from the source.

Jerome Jacob and Rob Donaldson on the IPA Creative Summer School

2011-09-08T16:10:00.000+01:00

Almost five weeks ago, 14 bright candidates graduated from the IPA Creative Summer School and successfully completed their five week placements at their respective agencies. The agencies that took part in this years programme were SFW, LIDA, OgilvyOne, G2, Euro RSCG, RAPP and VML.

If you missed Sam Bocock's overview of the School, you can read Jerome's and Rob's account on why it's an opportunity not to be missed...

Our time on the IPA Summer School couldn’t have been better. The entire experience has benefited us both enormously. We’ve spent five weeks in one of the country’s top agencies and mingled with the industry’s very-best. SFW had us working on live briefs which are invaluable for our portfolio and some work was bought by clients.

There really isn’t a more productive yet enjoyable way to spend your summer. Whilst, you apply by yourself, you get paired with one other to form a ‘creative team’. This means you have someone to bounce ideas off of and vice versa. It’s a great dynamic when you get on and this method led the way for some really cool work.

From our first brief all the way through to the graduation ceremony, we’ve been overwhelmed by the approachability of people and how encouraging and time-willing they are. The Summer School really does give you that much needed first-step-up onto what is a very competitive ladder and it will stand you in good stead for a long time to come.

Whether you’ve thought about Advertising as a career path or not, if you’ve got the creative bug, don’t spend your adult days dreaming about what you could have and should have been, be it.

Jerome Jacob & Rob Donaldson

The Shelf Awards 2012

2011-09-06T10:42:00.003+01:00

The winners of the 2011 Shelf Awards may have only recently been crowned, but it's already time to start thinking about next year's submissions. Are you a student on a creative course who would like to showcase your ideas to the industry at large? Maybe pick up a trophy and land a placement? You'll need to get your course leader to register for the Shelf Awards 2012, at www.theshelfawards.com

To keep up to date with all ongoing news and developments, be sure to follow The Shelf Awards on LinkedIn, twitter and Facebook.

16 months. 5 placements.

2011-09-05T14:55:00.000+01:00

Good news for aspiring marketeers: the DAS Accelerate programme is open once again for applications.

Accelerate gives you the rare opportunity to gain experience across a variety of marketing communications disciplines. You will be pushed and challenged throughout the programme—not least because you will start in a new agency every few months. You will work on live client projects. In addition to developing your presentation, communication, and IT skills, we invest heavily in your personal development with a tailor-made training programme which runs alongside the agency placements.

If you think this is just the ticket, make your applications here.

Diary of a 'Suit': A Saatchi X Account

2011-08-31T12:26:00.005+01:00

I break the rules.

I stand on the left hand side of escalators in London, eat spaghetti with a knife and now, as one of the newest populates in this world of advertising account executives, I’ve refused to follow the label so readily hung around my neck.

I’ve refused to wear a suit.

Despite the industries best efforts, including the creation of a collective noun for us people (I’m now officially a ‘suit’), I’ve found myself happily subscribing to the relaxed, yet highly motivating culture here at Saatchi X.

And so the rule breaking continues. I’ve been asked to give an insight into my daily routine so far. This, however, will not be the traditional blow-by-blow account of what it is that I, a lowly accounts graduate, gets up to on a daily basis. (@saatchixgrads)

The work here at Saatchi X is varied. That much is true. Every day is different and anybody, whatever area they work in, can expect to see a workload that is incredibly colorful; a direct result of Saatchi X having a clientele base as brilliantly diverse as its workforce.

And it’s this diverse workforce that determines what lies ahead. An online calendar can only go so far and even Google doesn’t have the answers. From the moment one enters this building at the ungodly hour of 9am, conversations happen. Colleagues will mull over the previous evening’s social life, comment on the weather and proceed with light conversation, all of this with one goal in mind: to delay the necessary pondering of their daily task list; a necessity in this world, where even the most organized person can get lost in the frenzy of creativity.

Having written today’s to-do list with a sharpie (someone works in a creative environment) my listed tasks this morning were particularly visible – and varied. For a reader’s benefit, today included:

• A conference call with a client in Singapore to discuss a major alcohol brand
• Discussing the Olympics and what role it may play with a major client
• Delivering my first ever creative debrief on a global whisky brand
• Attaining quotes for a campaign which was ready for deployment
• Collecting, analyzing and collating the news in order to brief colleagues on any developments with major clients and their competitors

After mulling a list, the next step, fairly obviously, is to commence the tasks on it and here, its particularly difficult to resist the temptation of starting from the top and heading southwards, ticking, or if your glass is usually half-empty, crossing, off items as you go. From my own limited experiences, this works… for a maximum of half an hour.

For the world of advertising is dynamic. There’s more firefighting here than the season finale of London’s Burning, and problems will come and go. Already, its clear that account handlers have to be extremely flexible, balancing their responsibilities and reprioritizing at a moment’s notice.

An account person’s day hinges around one continuous goal: to facilitate the best response to a brief that an agency can deliver. This means listening to creatives, feeding back to clients and ensuring that, above all, a brief is seen through to the end in a manner which would make all involved proud. Balancing a client’s needs with the creative zest of an agency studio is tough at best, and above all else, it requires one thing: conversation.

This is exactly what happens. If one is to pose the question, what is a typical day for an account executive, then the only legitimate response would be that it is simply a myriad of conversations. Of course, what is not so simple is that conversations often end in action points and its this, I believe, which separates the good from the bad – and makes a day at Saatchi X eventful, tiring but resoundingly rewarding.

Ultimately, there is only one daily certainty: I won’t be wearing a suit - at least not any time soon.

Ryan

Your Window of Opportunity

2011-08-25T10:02:00.004+01:00

Those of you who have checked out the McCademy grad scheme page may have noticed another tab, enticingly entitled 'Window of Opportunity'. It's a chance for creative grads to win a two month placement at McCann, and the window will be closing on 31st August so get involved sharpish.

All you need to do is describe what YOU would do with the McCann window. The specs and floorplan of the space are available to download on Facebook, alongside the agency's client list so you can choose the brand that you want to give a creative push. The best ideas will be displayed in the window itself, showcasing your creative talents to AdLand at large.

Details to be found on the McCann Facebook page, or drop by the office at Russell Square and scan the QR code in the aforementioned window...

Live Q&A with the ad execs

2011-08-23T14:07:00.000+01:00

Been watching too much Mad Men and want a reality check? This is your chance to ask any burning questions you have about Ad Land and get the truth straight from the horse's mouth.

Our Director General, Paul Bainsfair, will be part of a panel of experienced advertising executives on the Guardian's Live Q&A for students and grads taking place online tomorrow, Wednesday 24th August between 1 and 3pm. Post your questions and comments here.

From the Guardian:
"we thought we'd invite a panel of advertising experts to talk about their jobs and the skills they required to create memorable and successful campaigns. We'll be look at all the whole range of roles inside agencies and the skills you'll need to get them"

Link to the Q&A

Paul and Russell: After the IPA Summer School

2011-08-19T11:19:00.000+01:00

Paul and Russell recently graduated from the IPA Summer School creative programme. They worked at VML for five weeks and have spent the last few days putting together a joint website: http://www.smang.co.uk/.

Check out their page for some creative insight!

You belong in Bedlam

2011-08-16T14:56:00.000+01:00

Word from the chaps over at creative agency Start JudgeJill is they're now hiring for 3-month paid internships, "whether you’re industry brained or classically trained, as long as you’re anything but ordinary". If you fit this description then you should check out the blurb below.

You’re different. We like that.

See that wristband up there? That belongs on your arm. We’ve been slapping them around the talented appendages of a very select bunch of creative individuals, but we might have missed yours. Sorry about that.

So. To business. We think you belong in Bedlam.

Bedlam is StartJG’s unique paid intern programme. For three months, we’re bringing together ten completely unique people, from a mix of creative backgrounds, to create our own little R&D department. A hotshop for ideas governed by creativity, instead of clients.

Guided by our teams in both London and Manchester, you’ll not only be learning about the industry – you’ll be working to change it. Which is nice. So it doesn’t matter if you’re agency brained or classically trained, as long as you’re anything but ordinary.

Get in touch at bedlam@startjg.com.

More info here.

Jerome Jacob & Rob Donaldson on the IPA Creative Summer School

2011-08-16T11:03:00.000+01:00

To find out about Jerome's and Rob's experience at SFW, read on after the break...Our time on the IPA Summer School couldn’t have been better. The entire experience has benefited us both enormously. We’ve spent five weeks in one of the country’s top agencies and mingled with the industry’s very-best. SFW had us working on live briefs which are invaluable for our portfolio and some work was bought by clients.

There really isn’t a more productive yet enjoyable way to spend your summer. Whilst, you apply by yourself, you get paired with one other to form a ‘creative team’. This means you have someone to bounce ideas off of and vice versa. It’s a great dynamic when you get on and this method led the way for some really cool work.

From our first brief all the way through to the graduation ceremony, we’ve been overwhelmed by the approachability of people and how encouraging and time-willing they are. The Summer School really does give you that much needed first-step-up onto what is a very competitive ladder and it will stand you in good stead for a long time to come.

Whether you’ve thought about Advertising as a career path or not, if you’ve got the creative bug, don’t spend your adult days dreaming about what you could have and should have been, be it.

Jerome Jacob & Rob Donaldson

I Spy, with my little eye...

2011-08-11T10:08:00.005+01:00

Students, it's not too late to grab a fantastic internship this summer to bolster your CV. I Spy Marketing is an agency packed to the rafters with skilled digital marketing specialists,seeking a Web Development intern for a two week placement.

You'll need an interest in all things digital, and a working knowledge of web development and design, including scripting languages such as VBScript, PHP, ASP, Flash, CMS, FTP systems and JavaScript. You'll have the chance to work on some great and varied brands - iSpy has a client list that includes Unicef, Ted Baker, Parcelforce, Waterstones and Radisson.

If you want to apply, send a brief cover letter and CV to Lauren Hughes, at lauren@ispymarketing.com. For more information on the agency, and to find out more about their bespoke philosophy of Uptimisation, see www.ispymarketing.com

Sam Bocock on the IPA Creative Summer School

2011-08-10T14:34:00.000+01:00

And so the IPA Creative Summer School has come to an end. Last week, 14 bright candidates graduated from the School and successfully completed their five week placements at their respective agencies. The agencies that took part in this years programme were SFW, LIDA, OgilvyOne, G2, EuroRSCG, RAPP and VML.

To find out about Sam's experience at G2, read on after the break...

I used to think I wanted to be a copywriter. Now I'm sure.

I had worried that being on a biology degree course, I might have locked myself out of the advertising industry, but the IPA creative summer school showed me that this wasn't true.

I was placed at G2. They gave me the chance to look inside an Ad agency and find out how it all fits together. They gave me the chance to follow ideas from the moment they appear all the way to completion while working on real briefs for real clients.

The summer school also provides an incredible chance to meet and talk to people who know what they're talking about. You get the chance to put your work in front of lead copywriters and art directors as well as creative directors from all the top London agencies. And they give the best advice on how to improve.

But more importantly, you get the chance to work alongside these people.

Some days I was in all day brainstorming sessions, and other days I got the chance to work alone on pieces of long copy. But whatever I was doing, there was always someone willing to help out, or lend advice.

I really was blown away by how open and nurturing everyone has been at the agency, people were always coming over to introduce themselves and to let us in on their briefs.The wide range of clients briefs I got to work on has been incredible and has given me a great start on building a solid portfolio.

So, if you think you want to work as an advertising creative then apply for next years summer school. The degree you are on has no bearing on whether or not you can do this. Advertising welcomes, and in fact thrives on, variety.

I'm off back to uni now, but I know I won't be able to keep away for long.

I'm already looking forward to the next break when I can hopefully get another taste of agency life.

Sam Bocock

An Interview with a Senior Account Executive

2011-08-09T11:38:00.002+01:00

Coralie Young (23) comes from Leeds and is currently living in London. Having graduated from Oxford University, she joined the DAS Accelerate Graduate Scheme last year. The scheme, which runs for 16 months, enables graduates to rotate around five different communications agencies. Coralie completed her scheme this year and currently works as an Account Executive for Ketchum Pleon PR. Her clients range from P&G, Sanofi, Merck Serono to GSK.

To find out about Coralie’s time on the DAS scheme, please read more after the break…

1. Your job described in 140 characters or less?

A crazy mix of press-release writing, logistic handling, crisis managing, event planning, and think-tanking that’s different every single day.

2. What are some of the biggest challenges you are faced with in your role?

Managing multiple accounts – it takes a huge amount of self-discipline to divide your time across several accounts, all of which seem to have urgent actions. Luckily I work with really supportive teams, but it is a really challenging environment compared to university where I was used to working on one essay/project/deadline at a time!

Building relationships with the media – a key part of PR is being able to sell a story to a journalist, quickly and effectively. Once you have done it a few times it becomes a lot easier to build a rapport with them, but you develop thick skin after a few failed attempts!

Global clients - I work with clients from around the world – sadly my foreign language skills are not always up to scratch (and nor are my clients!) and this can sometimes lead to frustrating, or just downright confusing, conversations. I spent 15 minutes on the phone today trying to explain what a ‘podcast’ was to a lovely Spanish lady… by the end of our chat I’m pretty sure she still though I was talking about postcards.

3. Is there anything you wish you could have done differently in your job? Is there anything you would change?

No. I was incredibly lucky as I came straight from university on to the DAS Accelerate Scheme – a graduate scheme that rotates you round five different communications agencies over 16 months. It was a fantastic way to experience the whole array of disciplines that come under the “communications” umbrella and pick the one I liked most. I ended up working in PR because I absolutely loved my three month placement here and knew straight away that I wanted to work in the industry. All of my placements focused on healthcare clients because of my background in biology. Although I loved science, in my final year of university I had a sudden realisation that I didn’t want to end up in the lab or the field. I knew I was interested in marketing but didn’t quite know enough about the different disciplines to apply straight to an agency. That’s when I was fortunate enough to come across the Accelerate Scheme, which was just right for me!

4. For aspiring grads: how can you know if PR/marketing communications is the right job for you?

Apply for work experience; nearly all of the big agencies will accept intern applications. You can come along for a couple of weeks and try the job out to see if it’s right for you.

5. What's the best way in to the industry (grad scheme/prospective applications/ other…?)

I loved the graduate scheme I did and would recommend it to anybody – although lots of the agencies do have individual graduate intakes too, so they are worth a look at.
It’s always good to have some work experience under your belt, but never be afraid to make a job application without having any. I only realised in my final year of university that I was interested in marketing so I ended up making my applications without ever having experienced agency life. Instead I learnt about the industry by going to careers service events and looking through the websites of several different agencies.

6. What does the future (next ten years) hold in store for the industry?

PR has changed so rapidly because of the way consumers can communicate with each other and completely bypass brands or the mainstream media. For example, we do loads of blogger outreach and online initiatives. Healthcare PR still lags behind, as with much of the conservative healthcare communications industry. However, it is rapidly coming into its own and that’s why it’s such an exciting time to be involved in healthcare PR.

7. Who do you look up to in the communications industry and why?

It’s hard to pick just one person in an industry that is full of creative and inspirational people. But Rory Sutherland would be pretty high on my list...

8. How does working in the communications industry compare to the usual banking/law/management consultancy fields?

Definitely more of a work/life balance! You won’t do too many crazy-long nights unless you’re in the run-up to a really big event. And even when you do end up doing some all nighters, they end up being a lot of caffeine-fuelled fun. You don’t earn as much as the bankers and lawyers but there are loads of perks like travel and decent holidays. But, most importantly, all of the agencies I’ve worked at have had an amazingly fun and supportive atmosphere, and have genuinely felt like nice places to work. Lots of dinners and social events, awards dinners, client events, and because our agency works on loads of hair care, makeup and food brands there are regularly freebies dished out!

9. If you didn't work in PR, you would be a...

Zoologist. Or maybe a journalist.

10. Any regrets?

No. Lots of mistakes to learn from, but anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.

A day in the life of... Part III

2011-08-05T15:18:00.005+01:00

Welcome to part III of the Gradvantage 'day in the life of' chronicles.

Today, Amy talks about a 'typical' day as a Planner at Saatchi and Saatchi X. Amy is a Mancunian currently living in London. She first discovered her love for advertising and marketing during a Business HND at The Manchester College. Subsequently, she completed an Advertising & Marketing BA (Hons) degree at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) before studying for a Masters by Research, also at UCLan.

You can find out more about Amy's day in the life piece after the break...

A Day in the Life of A Planner

I’ve found it difficult to write this post, simply because throughout the past 3 weeks at Saatchi and Saatchi X, every single day as a planner has been completely unique in its own right. What exactly is a typical day here?

So, what I’ve decided to do is mash all of my days into one to hopefully paint a bit of a picture as to the range of experiences I’ve had so far.

At the start of the placement, my mentor Pieter-Paul introduced me to a number of planning tools that can help us form an inspiring, creative brief. From looking for barriers to issues, to exploring the functional and emotional benefits, each stage helps us define the insight to challenge the creatives with. Another thing I learnt at the very beginning of the 6 weeks, was that in order to get a true insight you really need to go out into the field (not those grassy patches of land, but the environment you’re interested in J) and see for yourself.

Once we’ve received a client brief, I start with some desk research, and immerse myself in reports, blogs, forums etc to uncover the trends. I then go out into the real world with real shoppers, to watch, listen and challenge their shopping habits – something Saatchi X call ‘Xploring’. After a long chat and shop with obliging volunteers, I’ll come back into the office to scrawl down everything I’ve seen. I then use the planning tools to help build the background to the brief. Following this, we’ll have a collaborative workshop to define the objective, issue, insight and challenge to take forward.

I love being part of the workshops because you really feel as though you’re part of a team. Everybody comes together to put their thoughts out there, however crazy they are!

As one of the grads, I’ve also had to give my fair share of presentations, one of which was in front of the entire Saatchi X London agency, and Dina Howell Global CEO at Saatchi X and her team. For me, this was such an exhilarating experience and really helped build my confidence in speaking to a sea of insanely talented people!

Somewhere in-between all of the above, us grads usually spend lunchtime together. It’s pretty cool because there’s a sense of ‘we’re all in this together’. I think we all really support one another, and we’ve helped bring out the best in each other.

There’s also loads of really interesting events, and I’ll try and attend at least one a week. Last week we represented at Pixelgroup’s ‘Brainyhacks’ event, where we had just less than 2 hours to work on a brief given by a secret client, and present our ideas back to a panel of top-notch ad-industry experts. This was a truly fantastic experience, which involved lots of passionate debates, along with some free food and drink. We also won, which was the icing on the cake!

This week, I went to a 44 Club gig hosted by the IPA, where guys from Warner Music and Platinum Rye spoke about the ever-increasing influence of music in branding and advertisement. Music really is one the most powerful tools!

I really do love it here, and no matter what happens after this placement, I’ll always remember Saatchi X as the agency that helped me take my first leap into Ad-land and the Planning world.

Amy

44 Club: Music and Ads

2011-07-28T15:03:00.006+01:00

Music can make or break an advert. With thousands of people heading off to get muddy at festivals around the country, it feels like an apt time to further investigate the crucial relationship between the tunes and the brand.

Come join us at this month's 44 Club at TBWA London on 2nd August, where industry bods from Warner Music UK and Platinum Rye will take the stage to discuss the role of music in ads, using prominent recent examples such as 'Feeling Good' by Muse in the global 2011 Virgin Atlantic campaign.

Better still, the talk will be followed by an exclusive performance by The Overtones, one of the biggest breakthrough acts of the year! So come grab a drink, mingle with music moguls, and see the advertising industry let loose...

Want to be there? Gradvantage is giving away TWO TICKETS to the event.

Just answer the following question...

Which bootylicious American superstar headlined this year's Glastonbury?

Send your answer to competition@ipa.co.uk. First correct answers from aspiring grads get the tickets (sorry agency folk!)

For more details on the event and to buy tickets, see 44 Club: Music and Ads

Good luck and get in quick!

Cl!ck here

2011-07-27T10:23:00.006+01:00

A last minute entry from The Cl!ck, a creative agency based in Norwich in the South East - there are still placements to be filled on their summer scheme for talented design graduates.

The agency has recently produced work for local businesses and landmarks such as UEA and Norwich Cathedral, with expertise across both digital and print and a focus on brand identity. To apply for a placement, simply send over your CV and a selection of your best work (or a link to your showcase website) to fiona@theclickdesign.com or, for traditionalists, to The Click Design Consultants, Lion House, Muspole Street, Norwich NR3 1DJ.

For more background on the agency and their work, go to www.theclickdesign.com

Beach break? BIG Break

2011-07-21T15:39:00.003+01:00

Are YOU looking for your Big Break? BD might be your knights in shining agency armour. Not only are they offering invaluable sessions on various disciplines within the ad industry, and a thorough review of your own creative work, they'll even put a roof over your head for the first three months that you're on the job. And better still, that home will be a stone's throw from their digs in supercool Shoreditch.

All you need to do is submit the piece of work that really shows off your creative talents, alongside the original brief. Six individuals or teams will be selected to join BD for the summer sessions on Monday evenings in August, where they will be set a brief to complete for the next week. Once the work has piled in it will be judged, and the winner takes both the job and the digs.

The deadline is a week from today (Thursday 28th July) so sift out your finest assignment and send it over to BDBigBreak@thisisbd.com asap.

www.thisisbd.com/big-break

Truth well told

2011-07-21T11:06:00.000+01:00

McCann London have really upped the stakes in this year's round of grad schemes... If you've been following on Twitter over the last couple of weeks (@McCademy_2011) you'll know that they've set up The Truth Line on Skype to answer any aspiring grads' question and lay rest to any ad career jitters. Check out the academy's video on the same 'truth well told' theme...

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You can find out more about their scheme and what they're up to here. If you want to apply you've got until 5.30pm on Monday 1st August 2011, so get cracking.

DLKW Lowe accounts

2011-07-11T16:25:00.002+01:00

DLKW Lowe are on the hunt for a grad to join their account management team, for a September start. Info below...

We believe you learn most by getting involved, so you’ll be working with one of our major clients almost from the word go. But you won’t be alone - our senior management are amazingly hands on so you’ll be working with and learning from some of the best in the industry.

We’ll also send you on training courses internally and outside the agency and give you a “buddy” a couple of years ahead to answer all your tricky questions, as well as structured personal reviews to help you rocket along your own career ladder.

If you think you’d like to join us please send a one page cv and cover letter, explaining within 300 words why we should hire you, to dlkwlowegrads@dlkwlowe.com before midday on Friday 29th July.

Link here...

Planning on going somewhere?..

2011-07-08T10:01:00.000+01:00

Young Talent, this is your opportunity to get awarded for your ideas. If you're in full-time education, or are graduating this year, then the APG Young Talent Award 2011 might just be your ticket to the creative-thinking recognition that every budding strategist craves. More details below from one of the judges...

Every year the APG awards the best strategic thinking in the industry at an awards night. In 2009 we expanded this to include a Young Talent Award aimed at students in full-time education. It's a great opportunity for the following reasons:

1. It's a great way into the industry. Of the three winners last year, two are now working in ad agencies and the third is still a student but will doubtlessly get a great job when she graduates.

2. The winners get to attend the APG Awards in October to receive their prizes in front of the leading ad agencies in London and the world.

3. It is dead easy and fun to enter. In just 1,000 words, you need to tell us about a brand that you would like to invent that would appeal to people your age. The brand should be invented completely from scratch. There is no cost to enter.

The closing deadline is Friday 26th August 2011.

For more details and to enter, go here.

What's in a name?

2011-07-07T10:43:00.003+01:00

Golley Slater London has been going through an internal rebrand for a while. They've created a new process to deliver a new proposition. They need a new name and logo.

Instead of sitting in a small dark room they thought it would be more interesting and more reflective of the new, collaborative principles of advertising, if they asked the wider creative community to get involved and help them out.

In return they're giving away a rather interesting prize…

First, they'll rename the winner by giving them the regal title to Lord or Lady of their new agency name. So they'll legally be able to change theirs. Then they'll fly them to the infamous (and aptly named) 'untitled' BCN gallery in Barcelona where their winning work will be put on show. Then, to help them wind down after all the hubbub, they'll fly them to NYC too.

So, if you’re a young creative waiting to get your creativity immortalized, check out the ‘What’s in a name?’ project at:

The official website - www.whatsinaname.info
They're also tweeting @_whatsinaname
And on facebook.com/thisis.whatsinaname

Good luck!

OgilvyOne

2011-07-07T10:43:00.000+01:00

IPA Summer School gets underway for successful interns

2011-07-06T14:44:00.001+01:00

Term has started for the 26 successful students who have won a place on the IPA’s Summer School. They were welcomed at an IPA Ceremony on Monday night (4th July), where they heard from IPA President Nicola Mendelsohn, IPA Director General Paul Bainsfair, Neil Francis, Creative Partner, SFW and two previous IPA Summer School graduates.

The IPA Summer School was designed to attract fresh talent into the industry and to help students launch their careers. Now in its fifth year, it has gone from strength-to-strength, with over 40% of the students from the previous Summer Schools having gone on to work in the industry.

The Summer School comprises two programmes: the Client Services/Planning programme and Creative programme. This year’s participating IPA member agencies include Brave, CMW, Crayon, EuroRSCG, G2, Karmarama, Kitcatt Nohr, LIDA, OgilvyOne, OMD, Proximity, Rapier, RAPP, SFW and VML.

During their placements the students will learn from the best in the business, work on live briefs and enjoy a series of special evening seminars and social events. In addition, they will also be given prize money, and if they prove to be successful in their placements, there is the possibility of a job interview.

For full details, please visit: http://www.ipa.co.uk/Content/Summer-School-2011

If the Summer School is of interest to you, applications for the 2012 programme will open in January.

The Young Bloods

2011-07-05T15:18:00.006+01:00

Hi Gradvantagers, my name is Kim and I'm New Business Assistant here at the IPA. This week, TBWA\London is launching The Young Bloods, a grad scheme of sorts which promises to break the mould of 'regular' graduate-scouting. Already a heralded program across the pond, TBWA are introducing their simple and democratic recruitment process to London - just fill in the relatively painless application form (no dreaded 'creative' questions here), and head on down to Whitfield Street, London W1T 4EZ, this Thursday for the open day. It's a broad talent search - a call-up for 'geeks, film writers, inventors, painters, artists, designers etc.' - so hopefully a fair few of you can get involved.

Full details are on their Facebook page here; learn a little more about the agency at www.tbwa-london.com

And another for the 'budding planners'

2011-06-27T09:00:00.005+01:00

You might not have heard, but the IPA Strategy Group and News International recently launched the advertising industry’s first iPad and iPhone app for planners and strategists. The ‘Fast Strategy’ app offers invaluable advice and inspiration from the industry’s key players.

The app provides planners and strategists with practical and motivational tips to help them move forward when they are staring at a blank page or are drowning in data. Users are able to read, rank and rate the existing tips, share them via social media, and allows anyone from around the world to upload their own, making it an ever expanding resource that will aid and unite planners on a global scale.

At present, over 2,000 users have downloaded the app and it is ranked number 6 in the Business downloads. So, if you want a heads up on who's who and what's what, I suggest you get downloading. This app is sure to provide you with some great pointers for those upcoming interviews!

Download the free app here: http://tinyurl.com/faststrategy

Starter for Seven

2011-06-23T10:13:00.001+01:00

Customer Engagement agency Seven have a great opportunity for a junior designer to join the creative department in their commercial sales team. Seven's clients include the likes of The Guardian/Observer, M&S, Sainsbury's, Lloyds and Halifax, and they're responsible for Project -- the world's first iPad-only magazine .

This role will provide creative, graphic design and layout solutions across
advertorial promotions and projects in the Sainsbury's portfolio. You will
assist art directors on shoots and provide design material for the sales
team.

To apply for this role, please email your CV and covering letter explaining
why you feel you are right for the job to careers@seven.co.uk.

The closing date for applications is Wednesday 29th June.

A bit for budding planners

2011-06-21T09:59:00.001+01:00

Hi all, I'm Jon - this week's guest contributor to the blog. I work in the Professional Development department at the IPA and in this capacity I have been lucky enough to hear a number of tremendously interesting types who work in advertising. That last bit wasn’t an oxymoron. I don’t think.

So I have a few things to say. I mean I don’t but other people do, which I will regurgitate. So I kind of do.

First and foremost this stuff I am going to repeat is what I found interesting and hopefully will inspire grads who want to go into account planning.

“The simplest questions are the hardest to answer”

“Make the work- work”

“Present yourself differently from everyone else in the room”

“We are not a drugs company; we are the enemies of disease”

“Start with what you find most interesting, not what appears to be most right”

“Go looking for work you enjoy and improve it”

“Technology keeps redefining people’s expectations”

“Most digital media is discretionary”

“Find your own myths to bust”

“Two people arguing over which chair to buy in IKEA are actually arguing over how they should live their lives”

“Do interesting things and interesting things will happen to you”

“We must fail more cheaply if we are to fail more often”

"Your brand is what Google says it is"

“It is all about mates and collaboration”

I haven’t attributed the quotes but I am pretty sure that that isn’t the most important thing. (If you want to know who said what then Tom Morton’s exhaustive twittering will tell you. #ipa4planning)

If any of this stuff sounds interesting you should definitely consider a career in planning, it is not as easy to spot the grad roles for Planning as it is for account executive roles but it is worth searching high and low for the rare opportunities for grads who want to become planners.

JWT Graduate Recruitment Programme: Project Management

2011-06-10T15:09:00.003+01:00

JWT are pleased to announce that its Graduate Recruitment programme for Project Management is now underway.

Project Management is one of JWTs most important departments. It is responsible for running the agency's internal creative processes, overseeing the project from brief creation and creative development right through to the execution and delivery of the finished print or digital execution.

The graduate programme aims to build multichannel capable project managers by structuring the training and work experience in a unique way. Over the course of two years the graduate project managers will gain experience in project management, digital production, TV production and art buying. This will provide them with a broad knowledge of all areas of the agency's production processes preparing them to become project managers of the future. By the end of the two years they should expect to have experience in the production of Print, Digital/Online, Direct/CRM, Promotional/Event pieces and TV Production.

For more information visit Life at JWT.

I Am Creative - are you?

2011-06-09T12:47:00.001+01:00

I Am Creative is a new website set up by the Ideas Foundation, a charity that helps young people in deprived areas get into the creative industries. The site offers 13-19 year olds the opportunity to answer real briefs from real companies like The Sun, Nokia and Metro as part of their schoolwork, with the help of an online creative mentor from a real agency in the UK. They have started their very own YouTube channel and their latest video focuses on tips for answering a brief. Check it out if you'd like to find out more!

Healthy appetite

2011-06-02T16:14:00.005+01:00

If you've been wondering how to integrate a scientific background with a passion for marketing, or you were inspired by Healthcare advertising grad Jo in our recent video, then this one from DAS might just be for you.

DAS Accelerate is a chance for four of the brightest, most enthusiastic graduates to trail blaze their way through the marketing world by spending 16 months on placements across five different communications agencies. One of these four graduates is employed on the Accelerate Health Marketing Scheme – a brilliant opportunity to combine passions for science and communications.

Deadline: midnight, 5th July. More info and application form here. Good luck!

More info after the break.

In healthcare it can take up to eight years to launch a brand. It demands the support of a wide spectrum of agency expertise and the Health stream will expose you to several of the key disciplines required to make that long journey successful.

You’ll have a passion for marketing and an eclectic mind that brims with diverse interest and ideas.

We’ll hand-pick agencies to suit your skills and support you with a personalised training and mentoring programme.

You’ll be given more variety, experience and responsibility than on any other grad programme in the industry.

Life through the eyes of an ad grad

2011-05-31T15:15:00.004+01:00

So, you want to work in advertising. In fact, you want it so bad that you read endless job specs, trawl through blog posts and attend numerous open days in hopes of acquiring a glimpse of the life of an ad grad. But do you really know what it's like to work in an agency?

This video might provide you with a new perspective. In an honest account, six grads from RAPP, 23red and the DAS schemes share their experiences of getting a foot in the door and what life in an agency is like.

Feel free to post your comments and any questions (no matter how trivial you may think they are) about the interviews and we'll do our very best to answer them! Remember, this is your chance to talk to us about your 'day in the life' queries.

Enjoy!

RPM grad scheme

2011-05-25T16:20:00.001+01:00

Hello folks,

If below the line is your thing then check out RPM's grad scheme -- details and info here. Here's what they have to say for themselves:

"We’re proud to announce the 5^th year of our RPM Grad scheme, which allows four grads the chance to discover what it’s really like working in the Marketing industry. Over the course of three months, the grads will be able to play an active role within our Account Team and Production department, working on live projects with some of the most successfully recognised brands.

We feel it’s crucial to provide graduates with a pathway into the industry, especially a BTL agency. Arguably BTL is not given as much credit as ATL especially within university courses and curriculums, and we want students to gain as much exposure to it as they can. As an agency we want to inspire young people about brand engagement and to help them see that ‘experiential’ can be applied through so many different channels."

Some feedback from a 2009 RPM grad after the break...

If you’re unsure, here’s some feedback from Tim Jenner, our grad from 2009:
“Be positive and focused on your end goal, if you want to get in to the industry you will if you are determined enough. Persistence I found was crucial and the more I explored the more contacts and potential opportunities I found.

Be yourself and not what you think people want you to be. I was very surprised that on the grad day the loudest and most confident characters did not get through despite thinking that they were what agencies were after.

Do your research and get an idea of what the company does, have done in the past and the state of the industry as a whole. Also try and experience some activity first hand. Going to the Strongbow tent at V meant I at least had an appreciation of experiential activity in practice, which was helpful at interview.”

Heads up, creatives

2011-05-25T14:42:00.000+01:00

Budding creatives, this month's Creative Review (June 2011) includes an 'advice, ideas and inspiration for this year's graduates' supplement -- worth picking up a copy if you're headed for the creative floor. Features advice from Miami Ad School in NYC on what you'll need beside a great portfolio, an interview with Johanna Basford -- social media creative extraordinaire, and more...

A day in the life of... Part II

2011-05-25T09:18:00.007+01:00

Welcome to part II of the Gradvantage 'day in the life of' chronicles.

This week, Will Harvey is serving up his typical day as an account executive over at Proximity.

After being placed at Proximity for an internship by the IPA Summer School, Will was asked back as a graduate. Having been on the Royal Mail account for six months, he is now working on the newly won Lloyds business.

You can find Will's day in the life piece after the break...

Don Draper or Dogsbody? An Account Handler's 'Typical' Day

In account handling, the job varies so much from day-to-day, that there are few guarantees or standard days. It’s about as varied a 'desk' job as you can get.

I say 'desk' because the best days are when you are barely at it!

08.30am

I have a bit of toast or what's left in the floor's chocolate box, while I plan the day ahead or just dive straight into last night's emails.

Then I'm quickly whisked off into a lovely Continental breakfast meeting or I'm hastily finishing the timing plan I promised the client at the end of play yesterday.

10.00am

Those Creatives must be in by now – it’s briefing time. Heading upstairs with an armload of paper and my very own brief with a creative proposition that I reckon the team can really get stuck into. Or with a brief that couldn't fill a napkin but demands headlines and copy for close of play tomorrow.

Either way, at least I'm away from that desk.

Chatting away about the weekend, the briefing's soon over. Fun done – now back to the desk. The Creatives have some fundamental questions that appeared to have jumped out of the original client brief. A quick call to the client and more chatting – this time about how no one can quite believe how much of a knob that bloke on the Apprentice is. Quelle surprise!

I send a few quick-fire answers to some emails, or just add them to the never ending to-do list. Now, it would be just plain rude to put writing this brief off any longer. I decide the desk isn't the best place. So it’s down to the £1 a coffee cafe, with the ol' pen and paper in hand…and we call ourselves a digital agency eh?!?

I re-read the client brief and the wealth (or more often absence) of background information. Context understood.

Got that down on coffee-stained paper. Conversation with the planner now.

Where the hell is he?!? Back to the desk to drop him an email – "Need to chat Customer Insights now!" If that doesn't get a planner interested, nothing will.

12.00pm

It’s already twelve o'clock and I’ve got a conference call with the client to talk over feedback on copy we sent over five days ago. I can't even remember which copy this is, what product, and especially what version….anyway, I'll wing it.

A few polite battles later, and we come away with a couple of successful push-backs. Hopefully the Creatives will thank us for that at least!?!

Forgetting to eat means that the stomach rumbles have now become audible – so it’s time for that lavish expenses-paid lunch with the client, or a supermarket sarnie.

A choice cut or Sainsbury's choice range, it’s gobbled down at rapid pace.

2.00pm

We’re back on. Returning missed calls over lunch. Can a man not eat? A lovely chat with a client, or a reminder of a request that slipped away, and it’s back to the brief.

Planner in tow, it’s time to smash out who we're actually talking to. How we can relate to them? What do they actually want from this product? What makes this product different? A few mind blocks later, an extra large cup of coffee and it’s cracked.

It’s a mini-Eureka moment. This is no ‘Good Things come to Those Who Wait’ moment. In fact, the only person the only who's been ‘waiting’ for this brief is my line-manager!

A mini-victory none the less.

A couple of very dry cost estimates to go with it and it’s over to the client. Then a nervous wait to see if they like the direction...

4.00pm

WIP time – we’re reviewing the latest creative ideas. Another gem in a busy day. This is the lovely output of all that running round – the money shot.

And they're brilliant. Phew. Brow wiped clean and I can’t wait to present that to the clients tomorrow…

A good hour of housekeeping to finish. Sending over endless parts of endless projects that were promised at that all encompassing get out clause that is 'End of Play'.

6.00pm

Loose ends all tied up, or at least forgotten about and it’s down to the bar to have a cold one. Again, £1 a drink, need I go on?

So, list of things done today: umpteen timing plans, countless cost estimates, an indecent amount of emails, more calls than a 3 mobile employee, and just one brief. The best thing about the day – the fact that I spent most of it talking to creative, inspiring and interesting people – the Don Drapers of this world.

And that's why I love my job, warts and all.

If you missed last week's post, you can find Fiona's A Day in the Life of a Junior Creative here.

A day in the life of...

2011-05-18T10:54:00.001+01:00

Welcome to part one of our newest segment!

We are full of gratitude for Will Harvey and Fiona Brown-Hovelt over at Proximity London for opening up their (agency) lives to us. Thankfully, they have helped shed some light on what working in the industry is actually like on a daily basis.

Part one is an insight into Fiona's life as a junior creative. Fiona started her marketing career as a Graduate Account Executive at Proximity on the TV Licensing business, but always wanted to work as a copywriter. This dream came true three months ago...

You can find Fiona's a day in the life of a junior creative piece after the break...

A day in the life of a Junior Copywriter. Version 79.

If your job’s writing words for a living, how does a typical day pan out?

Well, you never can tell. But usually it happens like this:

7am – 11am

Up! And out the door by 07.30am. By 08.30am I’ll be at the agency; time to grab toast, swig coffee and read my emails before the agency gears up for the day. I’ll read yesterday’s copy with a fresh head; tweak it, spellcheck it and proofread it.

Nat our creative trafficker (a godmother of organisation) will brief us on what’s coming up that day. We’re usually briefed on a new job, or debriefed on an old job, first thing.

Then rounds of thinking, searching, thinking, reading, scamping and thinking again begin. All in crucial preparation for some hot writing, and then the inevitable cold edit.

11am – 3pm

By this time, I’ve passed the test of a blank Word doc. Ideas and words have aligned. Phew.

Time for another glug of the good stuff: Coffee.

With two or three options to share, I’ll show Soni; the art director I work with. We’ll assess, debate and troubleshoot. After lunch we’ll be close to a solution good enough to show our Creative Director, Debi Bester.

Before then, it’s good to remember that, "Nobody reads ads. People read what interests them. Sometimes it's an ad." Well, that’s how Howard Gossage put it. So we’ve still got time to make it better: To make it simpler.

3pm – 7pm

Spellchecked and proofread; we’re ready to present. We never leave a meeting with our creative director without better logic, tighter copy, and a simpler solution.

So, after more rounds of thinking, writing, scrapping, revising, debating, hoping and sighing, we might have nailed it. But we’ll leave it until tomorrow to decide. When you can’t tell good from bad anymore, it’s time to call it a day, head home, and let the subconscious do its thing.

7pm – 12am

A period of time I like to call ‘Osmosis.’ Time to read, draw, paint, cycle, play, talk, watch TV and observe. Time to do everything and anything that feeds that magical force:

Creativity.

Wondering about client services? Tune in next week for 'A day in the life of an Account Executive' .

2011-05-17T10:50:00.000+01:00

Obama is in the business of providing opportunities to all, and he's come up trumps once again as Poke London need to replace a copywriter who ran off to join the President's circus. Budding copywriters, here's your chance -- check out the info and apply here.

Leo Burnett - Summer School 2011

2011-05-10T17:25:00.001+01:00

The Leo Burnett Group is pleased to announce that its inaugural Summer School 2011 is now open for applications.

Leo Burnett is the third most creatively awarded agency in the UK, and the group comprises Leo Burnett (integrated advertising) and its brand activation partners; Arc (retail and promotions), Lime (experiential), LeoSports (sports sponsorship consultancy), and Atelier (luxury style specialists), as well as newly acquired Holler (social and media) and Airlock (digital innovation).

They are seeking three account handling and two account planning interns to be part of a four week placement, starting in July. This will begin with a full week’s induction and training, followed by three weeks working with a team on one of their high profile accounts.

For further details of the Summer School and how to apply, please visit the Facebook page "Leo Burnett London Graduate Foundation". Applications close on Wednesday 25th May.

Good luck!

TBWA\London grad scheme open

2011-05-10T17:19:00.000+01:00

TBWA\London, the agency that brought award-winning, iconic work like Wonderbra's to life, have opened their grad scheme doors, so to speak. Follow this link for more info - applications close on Friday 27th May.

Sell! Sell!

2011-05-03T17:39:00.001+01:00

We've had word of an account manager/project manager role open for anyone with 0 to 2 years' experience at Sell! Sell! creative ad agency... If this opportunity makes you excited just thinking about it, you can find the application form here. Good luck!

How to nail the advertising/marketing interview

2011-04-28T15:03:00.004+01:00

Interviews are looming and we’ve been in touch with Sue McLelland, Director of Pathfinders (a leading media recruitment agency, worth checking out if you’re a grad looking for work in the industry). Sue’s role sees her interview grads for media positions on a daily basis and has agreed to share some wisdom from the interviewer’s side of the desk. Here’s her list of some of the things you really should know before you go for the interview:

Preparation is key! Research who you are going to meet: find them on LinkedIn and Twitter; look up their career history and how long they’ve been at the company to get a feel for what kind of person they might be.
Research the company. One of the first questions in the interview is likely to be ‘what do you know about us?’ Look at their website, and find out recent news on the company through blogs, Twitter and the trade press. Go that extra mile and look up their client’s websites, too, and recent updates on their activity.
Prepare answers to some of the standard tough competency questions and give examples that relate to how you would act in a work situation e.g.How would your best friend describe you?; What are your weaknesses?; Tell me about a difficult situation that you have encountered and how you overcame it?; Where would you like to be in five years’ time? There are loads more examples online – Google them and start your preparation.
Prepare specific questions to ask the interviewer. Suitable topics are the company’s plans for the future, their competitors, the working culture, training on offer, skills required. Avoid asking questions about salaries, benefits or working hours – this could give the impression that you are only interested in what’s in it for you.
Be aware of your body language. Sit upright, look at the person speaking to you and keep an open posture. Avoid crossing your arms.
Finally, express your enthusiasm and positivity, and be confident in your preparation; make the interviewer understand you are really interested in the role. Relax and remember, they have taken time out and invited you in because they are interested to meet you and are keen to see how you would fit in. But don’t forget that this is also an opportunity for you to get to know them and get a feeling of the working culture of the company… does it feel right?

Sadly, this post is also my farewell to Gradvantage as I am leaving the IPA and heading to Australia. I leave you all in the very capable hands of Emma and Jordan and wish you the very best of luck in your future interviews/careers/endeavours. - Flora x

Are the junior talent in advertising packaging themselves wrong?

2011-04-26T11:52:00.000+01:00

Hello everyone. Why don't you have a read of this post from BBH Labs while finishing off the remnants of your eggs? Saneel makes a compelling argument that grads ought to be careful to remain 'buyable' within a generation that more and more has developed a broad range of skills and online/technological nouse... interesting thought -- best to be a jack of all trades, or sell yourself as commited to one expertise?

IPA Summer School 2011

2011-04-12T12:01:00.001+01:00

Hello boys and girls. Hope you're enjoying (trying to enjoy) the Easter holidays. No doubt you're all swamped with essay deadlines and exam preparation. Fret not, summer is soon upon you!

And what could be better (almost better) than spending your summer at one of the industry’s top advertising agencies?!

The deadline for the IPA Summer School is looming and the last day for applications ~~is this Friday, 15th April~~. Update: we've now extended the deadline to give everyone a chance to put the finishing touches to their applications... closing date is now Friday, 6th May.

Just shout if you have any questions! If not, we look forward to receiving your application shortly.

Good luck :)

A foot in the door: Leith Agency Hotdesk

2011-04-08T11:55:00.002+01:00

Who wants to be a creative? In Scotland? You, of course. The Leith Agency in Edinburgh is taking applications for two weeks' work experience on their creative floor. Also, the hotdesk is open to everyone, not just people from art colleges or advertising courses.

Check out their site here for more info and to make your application.

Starcom Trainee Exec Scheme

2011-04-07T11:24:00.000+01:00

Fancy becoming a world-class media planner & buyer? Starcom are going to be taking on six high calibre graduates and A-level school leavers with the jobs starting in September 2011. Check out the job description and apply on the IPA's Jobs Online site here. Quick, though -- applications close Monday 25th April.

If your mind boggles at the thought of deciphering the difference between a media planner and a planner in a creative agency, you're not alone. Fear not though because you can find more about the different types jobs in different kinds of agencies here and here.

Still confused about advertising?

2011-04-01T16:10:00.001+01:00

With thanks to CareerPlayer, Graduate Jobs and Career Advice on video

Could you run your own advertising and marketing society?

2011-03-31T16:02:00.001+01:00

The news of a really exciting opportunity to get involved in advertising within your university has come our way via the Oxford University Advertising Society (OxAdSoc).

OxAdSoc is looking for top students passionate about a career in advertising, and with an entrepreneurial nature, to form AdSoc committees in their own universities over the summer to launch next term.

It will be your project, acting independently as a forum to provide speaker events and workshops to inspire those interested in the industry. However, you will be supported by the growing AdSoc network with seed funding, a website and help finding contacts.

Creating your own Advertising and Marketing Society would be a fantastic way to gain relevant experience and meet the right people at the top of the industry. Send a CV + 300 words on "how you think the advertising industry is regarded as a career option by students in your university" - to Franky Athill via franky@adsoc.co.uk before 1st May to apply!

Ready for some gameplay?

2011-03-29T12:28:00.002+01:00

You lucky things... The Microsoft Consumer Experience Centre will play host to our next 44 Club event next Thursday 7th April, with Head of International Planning and Product Management Jeff Pabst taking the stage to discuss the brand engagement potential of your favourite console games.

Want to be there? We're giving away two free tickets to the event, giving you an insider perspective on brand management within the Xbox empire.

Jeff will look at past successes and examine how agencies can use and create games for their clients' brand. For your chance to hear what he has to say on the future of brand communications, try out some new game releases, and meet some industry insiders over a drinks or two, send your answer to the following question to competition@ipa.co.uk:

Who is the American business magnate, philanthropist and Chairman behind Microsoft? First correct answers from aspiring grads get the tickets (in the spirit of playing fair: sorry, no entries from agency folk I'm afraid).

For full details and to buy tickets, see 44 Club with Xbox LIVE and Windows Live Messenger.

UPDATE: Wow you were quick! Both tickets now gone, congratulations to Alice and Jasna -- we'll be in touch with details. Anyone still after tickets, check out the event page on the IPA site where student tickets are at a reduced £18 (inc vat) for students.

Karma Kadets - could you be the next KK?

2011-03-25T16:03:00.000Z

Karmarama is the UK’s fastest growing advertising agency, and they were recently voted number 27 in the 2011 Sunday Times top 100 Best Small Companies to work for. Luckily, for you, Karmarama are now on the hunt for the most interesting young talent to be part of their exciting future!

So, you ask, what's in it for you?

The first step is applying to the Karma Kadets summer internship scheme. Three successful applicants will be offered a one month placement this summer (July, August or September). The best of the bunch will then be put forward for a permanent role in account management or planning starting in October 2011.

If you get through the summer internship you will have the chance to learn on the job with an assigned mentor. You will get involved straight away on some great brands and have the opportunity to shadow in other departments. Karmarama will award you with more responsibility from day one.

Once onboard you will immediately be part of their training scheme. Academy K is Karmarama’s commitment to the training needs of their employees and as a result, their commitment to the growth of the agency. It encompasses a number of different areas that allow them to give their staff the skills they need to stay ahead of the game, as well as keeping abreast of the latest innovations and market trends.

So, now that you've decided to apply (because this is too good of an opportunity to miss!), the details are:

1. Complete the application form by 17th April 2011
The application form can be found on the Karmarama website or the Karma Kadets facebook group.

2. Meet Karmarama for an interview at the end of April/beginning of May

3. They will let you know whether you are 1 of the lucky 3 Karma Kadets by 20th May 2011

4. Start summer internship (July, August, September 2011)

5. One potential job will be offered (October 2011)

Bonne chance!

IAA InterAd XIII: game changing brand campaign brief

2011-03-16T15:26:00.002Z

The International Advertising Association have announced the IAA InterAd XIII; a global competition for undergraduate students interested in marketing communications.

IAA InterAd is a global initiative that forms part of the IAA’s ongoing commitment to education in marketing communications and is designed to showcase the talents and skills of the next generation of industry professionals. IAA InterAd 2011 is the thirteenth in the series, and the IAA is delighted to announce the global brief which has been developed with Dentsu London and its client Canon Europe.

The competition brief for Canon asks for a game changing brand campaign that disrupts the category and breaks all conventions. The competition will test the theory and practice that you have acquired in your classrooms.

To learn more and register, go to the IAA InterAd XIII Team Registration.

Saatchi X 'Lift Pitch'

2011-03-11T12:02:00.000Z

A 30 second pitch in a lift (yes, a LIFT) could win you a job at Saatchi X.

This is a great opportunity for recent graduates and final year students. The idea around it is this:

Imagine you’re in the reception of the ad agency where you want to work. The lift comes down, the doors open and inside is the boss you need to impress. This is your chance, you jump in the lift and you’ve got 30 seconds to tell that boss why you should get a job in advertising.

You will have 30 seconds to pitch yourself and win a job at Saatchi & Saatchi X. The 30” pitch in the lift can be anything from a bit of showmanship, to a presentation of your favourite ad.
The event will take place on April 8th, 2011. Saatchi X are asking you to show up at the Saatchi & Saatchi office at 80 Charlotte Street, London. Bring your CV, take a number, join the queue and get ready for your 30 second pitch in a lift.
To qualify you should be a world class talent graduate in your last year at uni or a 2010 graduate. They are looking for a variety of skills and talent and you could be a future account handler, producer, planner or the next big think in design or digital.

RSVP to the event at Saatchi X's facebook page http://www.facebook.com/xliftpitch where they are also providing tips, support and advice.

Good luck!

The double-edged sword of social media

2011-03-09T14:46:00.004Z

No one can doubt the rise and rise of social media and its impact on the communications industry. The opportunity for creativity is what makes it so exciting as a medium to brands and businesses. Who in their right mind, for example, could have predicted the Old Spice guy or Aleksandr Orlov for that matter?

However, there’s has been a bit of buzz in Adland recently about the social media fall-out from the launch of an advert for PHD’s 21 year anniversary. Unfortunately for them, the general consensus on Youtube was that it was bit of a turkey. Whether or not you agree about the ad (actually here at Gradvantage we think the comments have been a bit unfair), PHD made a real mistake when they went in and deleted the negative feedback. Cue an angry response on Twitter, which to their credit PHD has since responded to.

While I don’t think this is a ‘disaster’ in the same magnitude of Nestle or Dominos Pizza, it remains another interesting example of how engaging in a two-way conversation with the consumer can sometimes backfire!

You can read more on the PHD story here and here.

Bored of thinking outside the box?

2011-03-02T10:15:00.000Z

You could try thinking diagonally instead? Everybody knows that you're supposed to be a creative type to fit in in advertising. But here at the IPA, we think there's a lot to be said for logical, linear thinking in marketing jobs too.

Enter the IPA Diagonal Thinking initiative, which has now begun its third year of service, and helps uncover that rare skill that only ten percent of the population is estimated to be lucky enough to possess. Those people are both linear and lateral thinkers... they are what we call diagonal thinkers.

Since launch, over 6,000 people have completed the online self-assessment which takes about an hour to finish. Results can be proudly displayed on your CV as a way of evidencing your skills, and the test can often form part of the agency recruitment process.

If you don't want to just take my word for it, check out an article written by Starcom Mediavest HR director Liz Nottingham here.

To take the free, self-assessment, just click here. Good luck!

Ogilvy Planning Fellowship

2011-02-24T11:29:00.000Z

Are you intellectually curious? Can you conceptualize and think strategically? Are you able to argue your viewpoint coherently?

If so, then the Ogilvy Planning Fellowship might be right for you! The programme runs over two years and provides some of the best planning training in the industry.

If you'd like to find out more, please visit Ogilvy Fellowship 2011.

IPA TV presents...

2011-02-22T09:52:00.020Z

Rory Sutherland, President of the IPA, Executive Creative Director at OgilvyOne and all-round Behavioural Economics wise guy gave a fantastic talk at the Oxford Union a couple of weeks ago on the topic:

Too much reality?
Behavioural Economics and why intangible value is often the best kind.

Fear not if you couldn't make it: IPA TV has got the video online for you to take in at your leisure. Watch the video below, or check out the IPA's Behavioural Economics homepage for more info on what is now one of the hottest topics in the industry.

Interesting read

2011-02-21T12:53:00.000Z

if you haven't already seen this
http://thesaatchiexperiment.tumblr.com/why

Getting a job at AKQA

2011-02-21T09:33:00.043Z

If you'd like some insight into the culture at digital agencies, and the kind of characteristics and skills they look for in new recruits, follow this link for a video featuring AKQA New York's CEO Tom Bedecarré talking about just that.