There are many avid fans of the show, “Mad Men”, who have taken an interest in pursuing a career in the field of advertising. For a show to have such an influential impact on its viewers, demonstrates the ability of the writers for writing such powerful episodes, which in itself is a sale. Advertising is all about selling. Selling something to the consumer and making them believe that without it, their life is less meaningful.
What is advertising? If you look it up in Wikipedia it will read: “Advertising is a form of marketing communication used to promote or sell something, usually a business's product or service.” This definition is accurate, but it is not just the selling that is advertising. But the way in which a product is sold. For example, a famous line from the show Mad Men, advertising kings of the 60’s:
“The reason you haven’t felt it is because it doesn’t exist. What you call love was invented by guys like me, to sell nylons”
The secret to all good advertisements is making the consumer believe that without this product in their life, they will be less happy and their life less fulfilled. So it is not just a computer you are selling, for example, but the idea that this computer will make you happier and live a more relaxed life. Therefore, a person entering the field of advertising must be in tune with the moods and emotions of the people. If you lack the ability to understand people, to sympathize and have compassion, then you will not be able to connect to your consumers. Knowing what they need and want is essential in making a successful advertising campaign. So, how can you know what the consumer wants and feels, if you are lacking in the ability to understand human emotions and feelings? To have a finger on the pulse of your consumers is a gift of a truly talented advertising agent.
The next time you turn on the TV, pay attention to how a product is being sold and you will find that every advertisement somehow conveys the message that this product will make you happier in some way. Whether it is a shampoo ad, soups or jewellery, they all portray the image of the consumer being happy after using or buying the product. This is the essence of advertising. Of course, there are many more things that one must learn to be successful in this field. These other things can be easily learned in an advertising class/program at a school/college of your choice. Learning about advertising in a class is not a difficult, but acquiring the talent is something you have to find out for yourself. As Don Draper from the show, Mad Men, says, “You are the product. You feeling something. That sells. Not them. Not Sex. They can’t do what we do and they hate us for it”
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