What education do you need to start a career in display advertising?

1 Display advertising roles

Display advertising is a broad and diverse field that encompasses various roles and responsibilities. The display advertising manager is responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and optimization of campaigns across different channels and platforms. They set the goals, budget, and strategy of each campaign, as well as manage the relationships with clients, publishers, and vendors. The display advertising specialist implements and monitors the campaigns according to the manager's instructions. They create and test ad creatives, select and target the audience, bid and buy ad space, and analyze and report performance. Lastly, the display advertising designer designs and produces visual assets for campaigns. They create and edit images, videos, animations, or text that will appear on ads while ensuring they comply with technical specifications and quality standards of each channel and platform.

2 Display advertising skills

Display advertising requires a combination of technical, creative, and analytical skills that can vary depending on the role and level of experience. To be successful in this field, professionals need a solid understanding of marketing principles and strategies, as well as proficiency in data and analytics tools. It is also important to have a familiarity with the technical aspects and requirements of each channel and platform, as well as the ability to use various software and tools to design and produce the ad creatives. Moreover, display advertising professionals must have the ability to craft compelling and relevant copy and visuals for the ads. With these skills, they can measure and improve the effectiveness and efficiency of campaigns while communicating a message to persuade a target audience to take a desired action.

3 Display advertising qualifications

Display advertising does not require a specific or mandatory educational requirement, as it is more dependent on skills and experience than degrees or certificates. Nonetheless, having some formal education or training in display advertising or related fields can be advantageous for starting and advancing in this career. A few of the common qualifications for display advertising are a bachelor's degree, online courses, internships, and projects. A bachelor's degree in display advertising, digital marketing, graphic design, communication, or other related fields can provide a solid background for those in the field. Online courses are a convenient and flexible way to learn the skills necessary for display advertising. Internships and projects are an effective way to gain and demonstrate the experience needed for display advertising. All of these qualifications can help to showcase the interest and initiative for display advertising, as well as enhance the resume and portfolio of display advertising professionals.

4 Display advertising learning

Display advertising is an ever-changing field that requires continuous learning and adaptation to the trends and technologies of the online marketing landscape. Therefore, professionals in the field must have a proactive and inquisitive attitude when it comes to improving their skills and knowledge. Reading and researching are essential habits for display advertising professionals, as they help to stay up to date with the latest news, developments, and best practices. Sources such as blogs, podcasts, newsletters, magazines, books, or case studies provide valuable insights and tips. Networking and mentoring are also powerful ways to learn and advance in display advertising, as they help connect with other professionals, exchange ideas and feedback, and seek guidance. Events, conferences, workshops, webinars, forums, groups, or communities offer useful contacts and resources. Experimenting and testing are also key ways to learn and advance in display advertising; creating and launching new campaigns; trying new formats or channels; testing different creatives or audiences; or optimizing existing campaigns can give practical experience and results.

5 Display advertising opportunities

Display advertising is a growing and thriving field that offers many opportunities and benefits for professionals. Demand and diversity are two of the major advantages, as display advertising is in high-demand and has a wide range of applications and clients. Creativity and innovation are also key components, as professionals can express their ideas through ads, experiment with different styles and techniques, as well as use the latest technologies. Additionally, growth and development are present in the field, allowing professionals to advance in their career, learn new skills, expand their network, and access more responsibilities and rewards.

6 Here’s what else to consider

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