Suits, expos and connections
OSU’s school of Journalism and Broadcasting had a career networking expo. Two words-amazing job! There was such a great turnout and a wonderful opportunity to network and rub elbows with the ‘big wigs’.
There was one pro that really interested me, and I apologize that I do not recall her name, but she was from a television station and we began to talk about media sales and commission. At her company, she said it is like any job straight out-crazy hard to establish yourself. You not only need to build up a list of clients, but you need to build an honest and trusting relationship with them. Give them a reason to continue to bring their business to you. This is especially important for those in the advertising industry trying to make a living on commission (the more your clients like you, the more money they spend. The more money they spend with your station, the more commission you make. It isn’t awful science, but some may not understand it).
My Pro friend gave me some useful information about not being afraid to put yourself out there, but at the same time it takes a dedicated person to get the job done. Going into media sales takes a backbone and someone who is willing to put their time into it. If you are willing to put for the effort, in due time it will be payed back.
Until next time, keep networking and your chin up fellow ’09 graduates. We will find jobs!
