July 05|2008

Dear Jancy:  I've been a copywriter at a good agency in Cape Town for a year. Is there any chance for me to work in at an ad agency in Canada (i.e. Ogilvy)? What are the requirements that an agency needs from an applicant from South Africa?

Many South Africans work in Canada and we have an ACD in our office from Johannesburg ourselves. If you've got a great portfolio that means you're better than the vast majority and an agency with an opening will do what it takes to hire you. Immigration is never fun but it's often not a barrier to a highly motivated creative director who really wants to hire you. So, do your homework and identify the places you'd love to work, find out the contact information for their CD's and start emailing your work. An attention getting subject line is key to have a shot at that busy CD noticing and wanting to take the time to look. If you've won any major awards you might say 'Lion-winning CW looking for your feedback' (sometimes easier to get a foot in the door just asking for opinions than saying you're seeking a job. If they don't have an opening you don't want to miss the chance to be seen and remembered for when they do). Good luck.