you're a sports guy, eh? Use that when job searching

So I talked to a cool guy named Scoot Overholt, who works as a strategist at a Philly agency...

Why the ad world?

Something that always interests me is why an individual chooses the ‘Ad world’ route. As we all know, it’s a very diverse industry that can satisfy many needs. Scott told me that he was always a ‘sports’ guy who loved to compete. Scott works in an agency that pays close attention to numbers and is always keeping score; this particular agency environment feeds that sports love.

Your unique interests are a very important thing to consider when job hunting. I feel like so many of us are obsessed with the ‘golden beacon’ that is a job and don’t take the time to consider a good fit. Think about what you want to do and research accordingly… Being miserable at a job you worked so hard to get is worse than being jobless and miserable.

How do we know if a company is the right fit?

-Do your research! Online, books, articles (etc)
-reach out to current and former employees. Most people will be willing to help you if you make the initial effort.



On connections:

Scott stressed that knowing someone is key. Make as many connections as you can.

- go to events you can find tons of events online. Look up your local AD chapter and meetup.com
- reach out on LinkedIN
- Contact alums of your school

Be active on social networks. Social networking is a lot like physically networking. IF you go to a party and are inactive (sit in the corner, looking at your shoes), you won’t make any connections.

Your connections can push your resume to the front of the pile and place your foot in the crack of the door. It is then up to you from there.


On your blossoming career:

“Don’t plan it, let it develop.” Scott made a good point in that you shouldn’t try to live up to a fantasy job, because fantasies don’t exist. If you are constantly comparing yourself to this pre-conceived idea of what you should be doing, you are going to be miserable and hating life… Who wants to do that? Focus on growing, learning and getting better. The ad journey is different for everyone and there is no ‘correct way’ to go about it.

A few random tips

1. Freelance and intern: this is a great way to show employers how much you have learned


2. Most of finding a job is being in the right place at the right time. Remember, the more places you put yourself in, the better chance you have of being there at the right time.

3. Make yourself standout among others. Understand what others are doing and do something different. (how else can we explain the popularity of lady gaga?)

4. Job searching is an organic process… stay open to different possibilities.