I often wondered if all the effort that goes into finding a placement was worthwhile and of how much professional value it really was. Fortunately I was offered the opportunity of a placement a couple of weeks ago and was given the chance to explore the real ins and outs of the advertising world.
Unlike work experience in other industries which involves making tea, re-arranging stationary cupboards and buying peoples lunch you are actually thrown into the deep end of the creative process. Once there I was surprised to see how much respect was given to young creatives.
I was encouraged to work on live briefs, sit down and discuss the insights with the planner and given the creative freedom to research my concepts thoroughly.
It’s a rare glimpse into the real work behind all creative decisions — something you won’t easily learn in university or college. It is an opportunity of a lifetime and a networking dream which makes all the studying and late nights worthwhile. I look forward to more placements and hope one of them leads me to that first job!