So you want to be an intern at an advertising agency…

Congratulations! You’re taking the first step toward a career of creativity, high-speed projects, and working with amazing people. But before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s land you the gig first.

Whether you’re applying for an intern position in media, the creative team, content creation, social, brand management, etc. the following tips will help guide you—and hopefully give you a leg-up in your application process.

You’re welcome, in advance.

Tip #1: Introduce Yourself

One of the best ways to stand out from the crowd is to send a personal email to someone in the company introducing yourself. Whether you went to school with somebody who works there or you reach out to the hiring manager, getting the message out that you’re applying is a great way to Build Connections (one of Infinite’s core values) with people at the agency.

Tip #2: Error-Free is Non-Negotiable

This tip applies to everyone—not just aspiring copywriters: any grammar, punctuation, or spelling error will ding you as someone who is sloppy, doesn’t check their work, and didn’t take the time to proof their materials. 

Everyone has their strengths, so it’s OK if you’re not the world’s best grammar-whiz. What matters is that you know how to use your resources to your advantage. Have a friend who’s a great writer? Have them proof your resume. Free resources like Grammarly are also a great tool. Whatever the case, there’s no excuse for obvious mistakes, even in an email.

Tip #3: Include Work Examples

Some undergrad programs prepare students better with example work or ‘spec work’ better than others. If you’re coming from a program where creating fake ads isn’t a part of the curriculum, don’t let that set you back.

Instead, pick a brand you love and put together your own campaign. Maybe you show a series of posters featuring different headlines and designs. Maybe you’re interested in social media, so you create a few paid ads and a TikTok reel or two. An OOH board is also a great way to showcase that you can distill down a big idea. Not sure what an OOH board is? This blog can help you out.

To bring your ideas to life, leverage tools like AI image generation, partner with a fellow advertising friend, and use sites like Minimal Mockups to create realistic examples of what your work would look like.

Tip #4: Avoid ‘Apply All’

As a student or recent grad, it can feel competitive trying to get an internship. And while it may be tempting to take the strategy of mass-sending out your resume, we’d encourage you to exercise some restraint. In many cases, sending the exact same resume and generic email out feels impersonal.

Instead, know who you’re talking to and make small, meaningful tweaks. For example, if you’re reaching out to an agency that does a lot of work in the QSR/ food space, create a piece of spec work in that industry. Or speak to one of the company’s core values in your email and why it resonates with you. These small, intentional changes can make a big impact. Only watchout—don’t write an essay. Concise is still king.

Tip #5: Use AI…Sparingly

AI resources can be great tools. In fact, we use them often at Infinite to generate images that help convey big ideas, create storyboards, and brainstorm synonyms. With that being said, AI shouldn’t replace your personal voice. Refrain from solely relying on AI to write your resume or emails for you. Even if it’s a bit less polished, we’d rather get to know the real, authentic you—not your chatbot BFF.

Tip #6: Interviewing 101

While your interview answers shouldn’t be fully rehearsed, it is important to show up prepared. Nine times out of ten, you’ll be asked some version of “tell me about yourself.” Take the opportunity to think through what you might say. What makes you stand out? What led you to apply to this specific agency? If you’ve thought about your answer enough, you should be able to speak naturally without sounding like you’ve memorized a speech. After all, you’re just a human speaking to another human. Be prepared, but be yourself! 

Pro tip: Take a look at the company’s website and their social media to help familiarize yourself with their values, work, and culture.

Tip #7: Get Excited

In a remote world, being able to show up and be engaging on Zoom can be challenging, but we’d challenge you to find a way to channel your energy into excitement. If you’re pumped about the opportunity to work at this specific agency, make sure the person you’re talking to knows that! Better yet, tell them why you’re excited and how you see yourself contributing to the team.

An element of polish and professionalism is encouraged, but don’t let that shadow your unique personality and passion. Cookie-cutter and ‘perfect’ answers won’t take you as far as your real opinions and enthusiasm.

Tip #8: Ask Questions

This piece of advice is probably one you’ve heard a thousand times. And while it may not be novel, it is critical. Asking questions shows that you’re interested, provides insight into what you care about, and demonstrates your curiosity—a trait that’s valued in creative industries. Don’t be scared, ask away.

Tip #9: Manners Matter

Graciousness goes a long way. Sending an email thanking your interviewer for their time only takes a few moments, but it’s greatly appreciated. Whenever you have the opportunity to show respect for people’s time, we’d encourage you to take it. Good people want to work with good people.

Tip #10: Does the Shoe Fit? 

Our final tip may surprise you. Throughout the application and interview process, ask yourself: is this opportunity the right fit for me?

Internships have the potential to lead to full-time employment, so thinking through these things now helps ensure you end up at the best place for you. (This may be a good time to mention that The Infinite Agency has been recognized as one of the Best Places to Work since 2023.)

We hope that these top tips help relieve some stress—and that you follow them when applying to be a summer intern at Infinite.