The chances of getting a job as an advertising art director are fairly low due to a downturn in the economy and strong competition for positions.

Tough economic climate reduces opportunities for advertising art directors

Consumer spending has declined because of the current economic downturn, which has affected earnings for many businesses and other organisations. To save money, these organisations are cutting back on spending – which includes advertising. This has reduced demand for advertising art directors and some advertising agencies are hiring freelance rather than permanent staff.

However, the advertising industry is cyclical, and opportunities are expected to pick up again when the economy recovers.

Job chances better for advertising art directors with experience in newer forms of advertising

There is particular demand for advertising art directors who have experience in advertising on the Internet or via cellphones. These methods of advertising are increasingly popular among clients.

Advertising qualification and networks can increase your chances of finding a job

Competition for advertising art director jobs is high. Your chances of getting a junior advertising art director are better if you have a tertiary qualification in advertising, as well as voluntary work experience at an advertising agency. This can help you to build contacts in the industry.

Some tertiary education providers can help to establish mentoring links between advertising agencies and students or recent graduates, which can also help with finding a job.

Most advertising art directors work for advertising agencies or are self-employed.

Advertising agencies range from small businesses that employ a few people, to large companies that can employ more than 200 people.

Most advertising art directors work in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, as this is where most advertising agencies are based.

To ensure advertising agencies are well-informed and up to date with developments in communication technology, the Communication Agencies Association of New Zealand (CAANZ), in partnership with the Auckland University of Technology (AUT), is developing a professional development training programme for the advertising industry.

This will include short courses aimed at advertising art directors and creative staff.