Something is just not right about this job?

Question

I always wanted to get into advertising and marketing. After graduating I got a job (training followed by a confirmation) in a leading ad agency. Sounds good, doesn’t it?

Problem is guys, it’s been four months and I haven't really done anything meaningful. I didn’t learn anything during my training.

I am assisting one of the account directors with his projects. He keeps giving me bits and pieces. But I feel I am not doing anything and not learning anything. Sometimes for weeks I wouldn’t do anything at all. Only thing keeps me here is reputation of the agency but at the same time I think if I won’t learn anything then what’s the point? Is this a common problem when you start your career?

Yes I keep asking for more responsbilities but that didn't solve my problem.

Answer 1

Oh man! Its a problem faced by many. There could be lot of things. Sometimes companies hire extra staff during the recruitment season so they wouldn't miss out on a good talent. Agencies do that when they are in the process of getting a new client.

But yes you need to communicate this. Just sort out things with your the person you report to, don't fool around and complain to everyone. You might be asked to do certain things which are not part of your job profile like faxing documents, as I believe you are in a entry level position.

See every organization has different work culture. Just ask people who have started working with a company not long ago, may be 2 -3 years and find out about their experience. Avoid asking direct question or complaining.

All the best and hope you sort out things quickly and without any damage.

Answer 2

Well "internships" and graduate intakes can vary. The problem is that someone in human resources decides to recruit x number of people, then stick them around the company.

I work in information technology and really support people looking to do workexperience of any kind, but usually end up turning down requests from people because I just don't have the time to manage someone.

Though at other times, we have some specific work to do and there is no problem.

It is the same in this company, you manager has little time to really look after you, or is just not interested.

Part of the solution is to take the initiative, but in a positive way. One company where my students were placed basically wasted their time, then when one guy complained they gave him extra training, and didn't hire him at the end of the period, but employed the guy who didn't complain.

So try and find things you can learn. Do you know all the software systems that they use (it is a good place to start), are there things you could improve without forcing the change on the company, maybe you could improve the layout and design of the monthly marketing figures reports.

Maybe you can keep a blog about the company, get fired,make the news and end up rich and famous.

Nothing is good or bad, it is what we make of it.

Answer 3

Pro, I think that you are in a situation where you have to gain the trust of the people around you. Maybe you should change tack. Instead of asking for additional responsibility, you offer your help instead to the account director. It should start on small things like making an errand for him etc., Over time, they will start to notice you and trust you. Or maybe they've place you in transition status (this just an afterthought).

I guess you have to take the initiative in your situation.

Good luck

Answer 4

Have you ASKED for more responsibility? Do you ask for feedback? Have you expressed your frustration and your desire to do more?

The easiest way to get more work is to ask for it.