how to get a job in advertising Archives - Ryan Lum
The Coffee / Tea Date
On 07, Sep 2010 | 2 Comments | In Career Development | By Ryan Lum

After being in the industry for a couple months, I have used this ‘technique’ quite often already. When I was interning at the San Diego State University Entrepreneurial Management Center, my supervisor mentored me very well. One thing I really appreciated was the tip he gave me over lunch one day.
“Get to know people” he said.
He suggested that you contact directors, ceos, thought leaders and just ask them out for a cup of coffee or tea or even lunch. Why?
It is all about networking right? It’s the people you know. I always remember hearing this when I was growing up. So if the message isn’t clear by now…GET TO KNOW PEOPLE!
Now I never said it would be easy, but the payoff is well worth it. Often times the person might blow you off (which is understandable). They are busy, they actually have work to do! Don’t worry, keep trying. These kinds of people will notice that you are going the extra distance and REALLY want to meet them. Don’t be annoying, but be persistent and if you have to meet them at 6:30am…do it.
I could go on and on as to why you should set one up.. but I’d rather you just try it out and see for yourself. Be yourself with no hidden agenda except to chat with them on topics that are relevant to their industry and the work that you do. Above all, have fun and go out and meet people!
Trust me, you’ll do fine.
How I Got A Job In Advertising In Less Than A Month
On 25, Jul 2010 | 8 Comments | In Everyday Words | By Ryan Lum
How It Began

On April 6th, 2010 I set forth on a journey. I was unemployed, had a lot on my mind, and a dream. I told myself…I WILL get a job at an advertising / marketing company here in San Diego.
Click here to read my original post where I set my goal.
During this time I also did a lot of freelance so that I could pay bills and what not; however, this was not cutting it. I wanted something more. I wanted a career. So this is where my story began. A couple months ago I set a goal…I would get a job in my field before I turned 24 (in less than a month). I got this idea after watching a movie called Julie and Julia. Anyways, I digress.
The biggest challenge was actually getting responses. I would send out a couple resumes, make several phone calls and of course, I went through craigslist. Let me tell you that out of all these job hunting activities…none of them really worked.
What made a difference was when I started putting myself where the professionals were. That means joining clubs, networking on LinkedIn, engaging conversation on Twitter, following companies on Facebook. After I joined these networks, I was one of them. Well, I wouldn’t say it is that easy. You have to work at it.
I ultimately got my interviews through clubs I joined, networks I participated in and the through the people I knew. There is no 100% solution to this problem; however, I hope the following list of tools may aid you in your search. Let me know if it has helped you or of you have any other tips I missed!
The Final Day
On 28, May 2010 | No Comments | In Career Development | By Ryan Lum
On April 6th, 2010 I set forth on a journey. I was unemployed, had a lot on my mind, and a dream. I told myself…I WILL get a job at an advertising / marketing company here in San Diego.
A couple weeks ago, I got several offers from a couple San Diego Advertising Agencies. I can now say that I achieved my goal and got a job a about 2 weeks before my deadline.
I shall now embark on another journey of turning 24 tomorrow. I will set another goal for myself..and a deadline. I invite you to follow my journeys!
Coming Soon…
How I Got A Job In Advertising In Less Than A Month