BY LUCY MARINO, executive director of the marketing and creative practice at global talent solutions, firm Robert Half which connects employers with skilled marketing, creative, digital, advertising and public relations professionals to meet their specialized recruiting needs. Marino manages strategy and operations for the company’s marketing and creative talent solutions teams across U.S. locations.
Maybe you’re just starting out as a creative, wondering how to take that first professional step. Or perhaps you’re a seasoned employee, feeling the itch for something new. Have you considered agency life?
Working for a creative or marketing agency can be a career accelerator. Agencies are where ideas collide, skills sharpen and doors open to new opportunities. Let’s break down what makes agency work so unique.
THE AGENCY ADVANTAGE
Think of an agency as a hub of creative activity where:
1. You’ll Work With a Diverse Mix of Clients.
Bored? That will change if you join an agency. While some firms specialize in certain industries, many support a varied client roster. You might find yourself designing for a tech startup one week and crafting campaigns for a Fortune 500 company the next. Even in specialized agencies, you’ll often work with different brands or divisions within that sector. This variety keeps you on your toes and expands your creative repertoire quickly.
2. You’ll Develop a Broad Skill Set.
Agencies are melting pots of creative disciplines. You might walk in as a graphic designer and find yourself picking up skills in user experience, social media marketing or branding. It’s like getting hands-on experience in multiple areas of focus — while getting paid.
3. You’ll Master the Art of Collaboration.
Agencies are staffed by people from different backgrounds, all bringing their expertise to the table. It’s a collaborative environment where ideas flow freely, and you’ll learn something new every day.
CAREER GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES
How does agency life fuel your professional growth? In an agency, you’re likely to be on the cutting edge. These firms are often early adopters of new technologies and trends, staying ahead of the curve to keep clients happy. You’ll get hands-on experience with the latest tools and techniques before they hit the mainstream.
But it’s not just about the tech. Your network expands rapidly in the agency world. You’ll interact with colleagues, clients and vendors across industries. These connections can open doors to new opportunities down the road.
Agency work also hones your creative problem-solving skills in ways other environments can’t match. You’re constantly exposed to all sorts of challenges, making you a more versatile and innovative thinker. This creative agility is priceless in today’s fast-changing business world, setting you up for success no matter where your career takes you.
CHALLENGES THAT MAKE YOU STRONGER
Of course, agency life isn’t all smooth sailing. But overcoming obstacles could be what helps you grow the most.
Tight deadlines are par for the course. You’ll often find yourself juggling multiple projects at once and racing against the clock. But this pressure will teach you to work efficiently and prioritize like a pro. You’ll develop a knack for time management that’ll serve you well throughout your career.
Client relationships can be tricky to navigate, too. You’ll learn how to manage expectations, communicate effectively and turn tough situations into wins.
The only constant in agency life is change. Clients come and go, project scopes shift and priorities get reshuffled. While it can be unsettling at first, you’ll develop versatility and resilience — traits that are prized in any industry.
IS AGENCY LIFE RIGHT FOR YOU?
Before you jump into agency work, it’s worth asking yourself a few questions:
Do you thrive in fast-paced environments? Can you juggle multiple projects without breaking a sweat? Are you excited by the prospect of working with different clients and industries?
If you answered yes to these questions, you might be well-suited for agency work. But what skills are agencies looking for?
According to research by Robert Half, 38% of agencies find it difficult to hire professionals with digital marketing skills. This includes email marketing, SEO, paid search and social media. If you have expertise in these areas, you’re already ahead of the game.
But don’t worry if your skills lie elsewhere. Agencies are also having a hard time finding talent in traditional marketing (33%) and content strategy and development (30%). The key is to identify your strengths and see how they line up with what agencies need. Remember, agencies come in all shapes and sizes. Think about what kind of work excites you most and look for agencies that align with your interests and career goals.
MAKING THE MOVE
Ready to pursue an agency job? Now is a great time to consider this career path. Nearly 3 in 4 agencies surveyed by Robert Half (74%) report difficulty finding skilled professionals.
Here’s how to prepare:
1. Network, Network, Network.
Attend industry events, join professional groups and reach out to people already working in agencies. Many agencies rely on employee referrals, so building relationships can give you an edge.
2, Brush Up on In-Demand Skills.
If you’re eyeing a specific role, look at job descriptions from various agencies. What skills do they consistently mention? If there’s a gap in your capabilities, consider taking an online course or working on a personal project to build that skill.
3. Polish Your Portfolio.
Agencies want to see your best work. Get your portfolio ready by including pieces that showcase your versatility and problem-solving skills. If you’re light on professional work, include personal projects that demonstrate your capabilities.
4. Highlight Your Adaptability.
Get ready for interviews by thinking of ways you’ve handled difficult situations. Agencies like people who know how to handle unexpected hurdles.
