This article was written by Scott Sallée, Social Impact Manager, Dentsu Aegis Network UK & Ireland
Once a year, top UK advertising and media agencies open their doors to the next generation of adlanders for the IPA's Advertising Unlocked. The 'open-day' enables schools and students across the country to gain an insight into our industry, learning how advertising campaigns are made and what job roles are involved.
As part of this year's Advertising Unlocked we opened our doors and welcomed 35 students from our schools programme, The Code, which was created as a response to the challenges of diversity in our industry and to support our mission to make a positive impact of society and create a digital economy that works for all.
In a day packed full of activities designed to give the students first-hand experience of our industry, we introduced them to our five Lines of Business – Creative, Customer Experience & Commerce, Media & Performance, CRM & Loyalty, and Sports & Entertainment, and demonstrated how their capabilities contribute to our business success.
We also gave them the opportunity to meet with our current apprentices and early careers hires to see what a future career at DAN could look and feel like.
And we partnered with LinkedIn to provide expert advice on how those in their early careers can stand out from the crowd, including access to a portrait photographer to get them a crisp new headshot .
Finally, we closed the day with an Instagram photobooth and pizza party where the students could network with the current and future leaders of Adland.
Feedback from students has been very positive, with 100% reporting a positive experience, 76% likely to pursue a career in advertising as a direct result of attending Advertising Unlocked; with 60% of attendees from a BAME background, we are taking another important step in increasing the diversity of our industry.
Students said: “My most important take away was hearing insights about the industry from inspirational people.”
“An incredible journey of learning about advertising, very helpful and gave me a lot to think about for my career.”
“I’d highly recommend to anyone not sure about their career.”
“Skills are transferable – what matters is being personable, curious, and good communication.” “I will soon be applying here!”
Check out the action from the day: