5 Tips for Graduates Looking to Work in Adtech

I recently had the pleasure of speaking at my alma mater, The London School of Economics and Political Science, sharing my journey post-graduation, and engaging with students eager to break into the adtech industry. Based on these conversations, here are my top five tips for graduates looking to start a career in adtech.

1. Stay Ahead of Industry Trends

The adtech landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies and methodologies emerging regularly. Key trends such as the shift towards a cookieless future, the rise of contextual advertising, and advancements in AI are reshaping the industry.

Advice: Make a habit of staying informed about these developments. Subscribe to industry newsletters, follow key influencers on social media, and attend webinars and conferences. This knowledge will not only keep you relevant and give you plenty to discuss in an interview, but also make you a valuable asset to potential employers.

2. Find a Company That Invests in Your Development

In your job search, look for companies that prioritise personal and professional growth. A supportive environment that encourages continuous learning and innovation is crucial for long-term success.

Advice: Research potential employers thoroughly. At Illuma, for instance, we enjoy formal access to courses, workshops, and certifications in the latest adtech and AI technologies. Additionally, we are provided with informal learning through regular knowledge-sharing sessions and access to industry conferences. Look for companies that demonstrate a similar commitment to development.

3. Embrace Innovation and Growth

Adtech is a dynamic field where innovation drives success. Joining an innovative and rapidly growing company can provide you with unique experiences and opportunities that more established firms might not offer.

Advice: Seek out startups or companies known for breaking new ground. Illuma, for example, was one of the first adtech companies to apply AI and machine learning to contextual advertising, and they pioneered new ways to understand audience behaviour without cookies, long before GDPR came along. Working in such environments can expose you to cutting-edge technologies and a growth mindset, giving you a competitive edge in your career.

4. Cultivate a Supportive Network

The importance of a supportive team cannot be overstated. Surrounding yourself with colleagues who are collaborative, knowledgeable, and supportive can make a significant difference in your career trajectory.

Advice: During interviews, ask about the team culture and how collaboration is fostered. Look for a culture of inclusivity and support, where every team member's contribution is valued, and find out what sort of access you’ll have to the top leaders, analysts and data scientists. These aspects of the work environment can greatly enhance your job satisfaction and professional growth.

5. Align Your Academic Focus with Industry Needs

Choosing the right academic path can provide a strong foundation for your career in adtech. Focus on majors or theses related to data science, machine learning, digital marketing, or similar fields that are directly applicable to adtech.

Advice: If you’re still at university, consider tailoring your coursework and projects to align with industry demands. Practical experience through internships or relevant research can also make you more attractive to potential employers. My own journey began with a strong academic foundation in data science, complemented by working at Deutsche Bank and Deloitte. These experiences, combined with a Masters in Data Science from the London School of Economics, paved the way for my role at Illuma.

Conclusion

Breaking into the adtech industry can be challenging but immensely rewarding. By staying ahead of trends, finding the right company, embracing innovation, building a supportive network, and aligning your academic focus, you can set yourself up for success. I look forward to seeing the new wave of graduates bring fresh perspectives and ideas to our ever-evolving field.