A Student Is Applying To Two Different Agencies

Navigating the Agency Application Maze: A Student's Guide to Applying to Two (or More!) Agencies

Applying to creative agencies can feel like navigating a complex maze. The pressure to impress, the need to showcase your talent, and the sheer number of applications required can be overwhelming, especially for students. This article delves into the intricacies of applying to multiple agencies simultaneously, offering practical advice and strategies to maximize your chances of success. We'll cover everything from crafting compelling portfolios to navigating the interview process, ensuring you present yourself as a well-rounded and desirable candidate.

Understanding the Landscape: Why Apply to Multiple Agencies?

The competitive nature of the creative industry necessitates a strategic approach. Applying to just one agency puts all your eggs in one basket. Diversifying your applications increases your chances of securing an internship, apprenticeship, or even a full-time role. Furthermore, the experience of applying to different agencies sharpens your skills, helping you refine your portfolio, improve your interview technique, and understand the unique culture and values of various organizations.

Phase 1: Research and Preparation – The Foundation of Success

Before even thinking about submitting applications, thorough research is crucial. This phase lays the groundwork for a successful application campaign.

1.1 Identifying Suitable Agencies:

Define your interests: What type of creative work excites you? Are you passionate about graphic design, digital marketing, advertising, or perhaps a specific niche like UX/UI design or motion graphics? Identifying your passions will help you target agencies that align with your skillset and career aspirations.
Research agency culture: Don't just focus on the work they produce; delve into their values, employee reviews (if available), and overall work environment. Look for agencies that resonate with your personality and working style. A good fit culturally is just as important as a good fit professionally.
Analyze their portfolios: Scrutinize the work produced by each agency. Are they working on projects that interest you? Do you see a style or aesthetic you admire? This shows you've taken the time to understand their output and aren’t just sending out generic applications.
Consider agency size and structure: Large agencies often offer more structured training programs and broader exposure, while smaller agencies might provide more hands-on experience and a closer working relationship with senior creatives.

1.2 Tailoring Your Portfolio:

Your portfolio is your most valuable asset. It's the first impression an agency will have of your abilities. Avoid a generic portfolio; instead, customize it for each agency.

Showcase relevant work: Don't include everything you've ever done. Select pieces that directly align with the agency's specialization and style. If an agency focuses on branding, highlight your branding projects. If they specialize in web design, emphasize your web design work.
Contextualize your projects: Don't just present visuals; explain the design process, the challenges you overcame, and the results you achieved. This demonstrates your problem-solving abilities and design thinking.
High-quality presentation: Ensure your portfolio is professionally presented, whether online or in print. Use high-resolution images, clean layouts, and consistent branding.
Create agency-specific case studies: This demonstrates a deeper understanding of the agency and their work. Research their past campaigns and highlight how your skills and experience could contribute to their future successes.

1.3 Crafting a Compelling Cover Letter:

The cover letter is your opportunity to connect with the agency on a personal level. It's where you showcase your personality, enthusiasm, and understanding of the agency's work.

Personalize each letter: Avoid generic templates. Research the agency and the specific role you're applying for, and tailor your letter accordingly. Mention specific projects or campaigns that have impressed you.
Highlight relevant skills and experience: Focus on how your skills and experience align with the agency's needs and the requirements of the role. Use action verbs to showcase your accomplishments.
Show, don't just tell: Provide concrete examples of your skills and achievements. Quantify your results whenever possible.
Express your enthusiasm: Let your passion for design and the agency shine through. Conclude with a strong call to action.

1.4 Preparing for the Interview:

The interview is your chance to impress the agency in person (or virtually). Thorough preparation is essential.

Research the interviewers: If possible, research the individuals who will be interviewing you. Knowing their background and expertise will help you tailor your responses and ask insightful questions.
Practice your answers: Prepare for common interview questions, such as "Tell me about yourself," "Why are you interested in this agency?", and "What are your strengths and weaknesses?"
Prepare thoughtful questions: Asking insightful questions shows your genuine interest in the agency and the role. Prepare a list of questions that demonstrate your understanding of the agency's work and culture.
Plan your outfit: Dress professionally, reflecting the agency’s culture. Even for virtual interviews, presenting yourself professionally is important.

Phase 2: Application Submission and Follow-Up – Staying Organized and Persistent

Now, the hard work begins: submitting your meticulously crafted applications. Maintaining organization and following up effectively is key to increasing your chances of success.

2.1 Strategic Application Timing:

Don't apply to all agencies at once. Prioritize your top choices and submit those applications first. This allows you to focus your energy and ensures you provide your best work for each application. Stagger your applications to avoid feeling overwhelmed and to allow time for responses.

2.2 Tracking Applications:

Create a spreadsheet to track your applications. Include details such as:

Agency Name: The name of the agency.
Application Date: The date you submitted your application.
Contact Person: The name of the person you contacted, if any.
Status: The current status of your application (e.g., submitted, interview scheduled, rejected).
Notes: Any additional notes or observations.

2.3 Following Up Effectively:

Following up demonstrates your enthusiasm and initiative. However, avoid being overly persistent. A polite email a week or two after submitting your application is usually sufficient.

Keep it brief and professional: Your follow-up email should reiterate your interest and briefly highlight any new relevant experience or projects.
Avoid sounding desperate: Maintain a professional tone. Too many follow-ups can be counterproductive.

Phase 3: The Interview Process – Making a Lasting Impression

The interview is your chance to showcase your personality, skills, and passion. Remember that the interviewers are assessing your cultural fit as well as your technical abilities.

3.1 Types of Interviews:

Be prepared for a variety of interview formats, including:

Portfolio Reviews: Be ready to discuss your projects in detail, explaining your design choices and the challenges you faced.
Technical Assessments: These may involve design exercises or practical tests to assess your skills.
Behavioral Questions: These questions assess your personality, work style, and problem-solving abilities. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
Panel Interviews: Prepare to answer questions from multiple interviewers.

3.2 Asking Insightful Questions:

Asking thoughtful questions demonstrates your genuine interest and initiative. Prepare a list of questions that show your understanding of the agency and the role. Consider questions like:

What are the biggest challenges facing the agency currently?
What opportunities for professional development are available?
What is the agency's culture like?
What are the team dynamics like?

3.3 Negotiating Offers (if applicable):

If you receive multiple job offers, be prepared to negotiate salary and benefits. Research industry standards and know your worth. Don't be afraid to politely negotiate for a better package.

Phase 4: Post-Interview – Maintaining Momentum

Even after the interview, the application process isn't over.

4.1 Sending Thank-You Notes:

Sending a personalized thank-you note after each interview reinforces your interest and shows your professionalism. This small gesture can make a significant difference.

4.2 Following Up (if appropriate):

If you haven't heard back within a reasonable timeframe, a polite follow-up email is acceptable. However, avoid being overly persistent.

Conclusion: Persistence and Patience Pay Off

Applying to multiple agencies requires significant effort and patience. However, a strategic and well-organized approach significantly increases your chances of success. Remember to tailor your application materials to each agency, thoroughly research each organization, and showcase your unique skills and personality. By following the steps outlined above, you'll navigate the agency application maze with confidence and increase your prospects of landing your dream role. Good luck!