Last night was the first time we’ve felt old in awhile. We sat down for a pint and a few shots at Mr. Biggs’ — a nice little happy hour place in Hell’s Kitchen, and were joined by a gaggle of young addies hailing from Minnesota. Each of them had that gleam in their eye — you know, that “Advertising, fuck yeah!” enthusiasm that David Ogilvy sought after.
The intention was to meet up with Yaybia! (Yay! + labia) blogger Erin Lamberty. The blog is snappy and fun and written by witty Minnesotan addies, including Lamberty, who will soon have a New York address. And hopefully, a job. We first met Erin after linking to this nippe-rific American Apparel ad on Yaybia!.
Unfortunately, they’re seeking work at the worst possible time. But at least Erin and Co. have something unique to offer — Minnesota Nice, which flows through their veins like the tequila we shot. That kind-hearted, polite, real feeling you get when you meet a midwesterner is worth something. So is the relatively minuscule pricetag of the recent grads.
But entering the industry right now must feel impossible. So let’s use our collective knowledge and provide some insight to the kids graduating in May. Not just Lamberty, but all the hopefuls who are destined for Asst. Account Rep-dom and the dreaded internship. And for the love, let’s be productive about it. Wisdom can be imparted via the comments section.
Our advice: keep blogging. Hone those writing skills and grow your brand. Focus on digital shops, SEO too, and go where the money is. The trades will tell you who is getting new business, and that basically tells you which agencies are hiring.
More: “American Apparel Uses (GASP!) Nudity to Sell Clothing”