If you’ve recently spent any amount of time searching for a job, you might have seen a wide variety of ads for careers in media sales. And if you aren’t familiar with the field, you’re probably wondering: exactly what is media sales, and what does a job in media sales actually involve?

The first thing to know about working in media sales is that it can be a lucrative and interesting career path that pushes you to learn, grow, and achieve more than you thought possible. And because the world of media is constantly evolving, a media sales career is anything but boring – there’s always something new going on!

Today, we’re explaining the ins and outs of media sales, so you can decide if it’s a potential career path you would like to pursue – let’s jump right in.

In simplest terms, media sales involves the sale of media to be used for advertising purposes. Essentially, working in media sales means that you’ll be responsible for connecting businesses and brands with the advertising space they need to market to their target audience. Advertising space on a wide range of mediums, including:

• Online
• Radio
• Television
• Magazines
• Newspapers
• Directories

Every single ad you see (printed and digital) starts with the space being sold by a media sales professional. From the massive, double-page spreads in the pages of Vogue to the banner advertisements on a clothing brand’s website, it all passed through the hands of someone in media sales.

Working in Media Sales vs. Media

So, is a job in media sales the same as a job in media? Not really.

“Media” is a broad term defined as any and all means of mass communication, including the media forms we often think about first, such as television, movies, and online video. However, it also extends to include printed content, broadcasting, and more.

Media sales jobs are, at their core, a career in sales, meaning that your work will be largely focused in the realms of advertising, marketing, and successful selling. It’s much different from working in the media as a producer, audio engineer, or director.

However, many of the most successful people in media sales are interested in media. If you have a passion for how different forms of media can impact our lives and daily experiences, then you might feel particularly connected to helping brands use media to achieve their marketing goals.

How to Get Into Media Sales

Media sales tend to attract dynamic, motivated individuals that enjoy a self-directed work environment that puts virtually no limits on success. How many sales you make – and how much money you take home – will mainly depend on your level of motivation for the job. So, if you’re enthusiastic about your role, you can be extremely successful.

In order to get started in media sales, a well-rounded education can be key. You’ll be able to gain an understanding of how the industry works, what brands are looking for, and how to communicate with clients. Plus, you’ll be able to stand out in the job application process, increasing your odds of scoring your ideal job.

Once you get your foot in the door, the sky’s the limit. Many media sales professionals work towards jobs as account managers, which involves more “face time” with clients. As an account manager, you’ll be responsible for building lasting relationships with clients and focusing on strategy.

Jumpstart Your Career in Media Sales Now

Getting into the highly competitive and fast-moving media industry can be challenging, but pursuing your dream career is possible – especially when you’re armed with media education, strong skills, and well-rounded experience.

At the Beonair Network of Media Schools, with campuses located in Miami, Chicago, Colorado, and Ohio, students take a hands-on approach to learning in our Media Sales and Marketing program. Our experienced instructors create opportunities for students to gain a deeper understanding of the industry, preparing them to be high-demand job candidates. When you graduate, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of media sales, making it easier to find a job that suits your interests, passions, and goals.

Learn more about how to get a job in media sales when you contact our team today!

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