Digital Advertising Workers

Employers

Most digital advertising workers are employed by advertising agencies that plan and prepare advertising campaigns for their clients on a commission or service fee basis. However, some digital media companies prefer to handle their own advertising. In 2023, there were approximately 166,029 people employed in digital advertising agencies in the U.S., according to IBISWorld. The largest digital advertising agencies, in terms of market share, were the Interpublic Group of Companies, WPP, and Omnicom Group.

IBISWorld reports that the states of California (2,323 businesses), New York (1,548 businesses) and Florida (1,183 businesses) had the highest number of digital advertising agencies in 2023.

Starting Out

Although competition for digital advertising jobs is fierce and getting your foot in the door can be difficult, there are a variety of ways to launch a career in the field. Some large agencies recruit college graduates and place them in training programs designed to acquaint beginners with all aspects of advertising work, but these opportunities are limited and highly competitive.

Instead, many graduates simply send resumes to businesses that employ entry-level advertising workers. They may find jobs through job openings posted on digital advertising agency Web sites or through employment sites and social media, such as LinkedIn. Others utilize job search sites or their college’s career services offices. Joining a professional association is a good way to network and learn about job openings. The American Advertising Federation offers chapters for college students, and the Social Media Association offers a membership option for postsecondary students.