Texas Tech University

Advertising 101: What You Need to Know

Department of Advertising & Brand Strategy

February 13, 2023

When you think of advertising, do you think of annoying commercials you have to sit through before your YouTube video starts? Or scrolling through your Instagram feed and seeing all the paid advertisements trying to sell you something? Let us tell you, there's much more to advertising than just those pesky ads you see daily.

We're here to show you the exciting world of advertising, where creativity and strategy collide to bring ideas to life and shape the world around us. From the products we buy to the shows we watch, advertising plays a huge role in our daily lives. So, come along with us on a journey to discover what advertising is all about, why it's important, and why you should consider a career in this dynamic field.

What is Advertising?

Advertising is all about getting the word out about products, services, or brands using different channels like TV, radio, print, digital, and outdoor ads. The goal? To grab the attention of your target audience, convince them to buy in, and turn them into loyal customers.

Think about it – when you see an advertisement on TV, listen to a commercial on the radio, or scroll past an ad on Instagram, that's advertising in action. The goal is to capture your attention, share information about what's being sold, and ultimately convince you to buy or try it out.

Why is Advertising So Important?

Advertising is critical to making it big in the business world. It helps companies connect with their target audience and share what makes their products or services unique. A killer ad campaign can also help a brand establish its identity and differentiate itself from the competition.

In today's cut-throat marketplace, advertising is non-negotiable if you want to make it. It's the key to attracting new customers, keeping current ones happy, and getting your brand name out there. With the right advertising campaign, you can communicate your product's or service's unique features and benefits, making it stand out from the rest and, most importantly, increase sales.

What types of jobs can I get with an Advertising degree?

Ready to turn your love for marketing and creativity into a career? With a degree in advertising, you've got tons of options! Here are a few of the exciting jobs you could land:

  • Advertising Account Executive: You'll be the main point of contact between the advertising agency and its clients, ensuring everyone is happy, and the campaigns run smoothly.
  • Media Planner/Buyer: You'll help clients figure out the best way to reach their target audience, then use your media buying skills to make it happen.
  • Copywriter: You'll put your writing skills to the test, crafting catchy and persuasive ad copy that'll grab people's attention.
  • Art Director: You'll dream up visually stunning ads and work with designers to ensure they come to life.
  • Brand Manager: You'll be in charge of a brand's image and ensuring the world knows all about it through killer marketing strategies and advertising campaigns.

These are just a few examples of the many excellent and challenging careers waiting for you in the advertising world. With new technologies and media emerging, you'll always be energized and have something new to learn and work on.

Why Should You Study Advertising?

Studying advertising could be the perfect fit if you're interested in a marketing, media, or communication career. With a degree in advertising, you'll learn the skills to create and run successful ad campaigns, understand what makes people tick, and develop marketing strategies that will blow your competition out of the water.

Not only will you get technical skills, but you'll also develop essential soft skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and leadership. These skills will help you in your advertising career and be valuable no matter what you do.

In short, advertising is a massive part of the business world, and a degree in advertising can lead to an exciting and well-paying career. Whether you want to craft the perfect ad, get inside the head of consumers, or lead a marketing team, a degree in advertising will give you the tools to succeed.