5 Tips for Transitioning to a Career in Ad tech

If you're a woman of color interested in technology, exploring ad tech could be the perfect step forward for your career. Unfortunately, Black women are significantly underrepresented within this male-dominated field - but there is potential to shift that balance and make a difference! Ad tech is defined as "the software and tools agencies, brands, publishers, and platforms use to target their digital advertising efforts," meaning finding ways to make marketing more impactful. As our world continues its rapid digitization, we can only expect an increasing demand for those with expertise in ad tech.

As someone with over 15 years of experience in advertising, working in tech has pros and cons like any other field; however, my focus has been on bringing a sense of diversity and inclusion to every project I've had the pleasure to work on - making our world more vibrant with each step. Knowing I'm making a difference keeps me motivated. So whether you're considering making a significant change or want to get your foot in the door, here are my five tips for transitioning to a career in ad tech.

Do Your Research:

First and foremost, it's essential to do your research. Ad tech is a complex industry, and it's important to understand its technical and business aspects. Various blogs, forums, and sites offer great insights, including Ad Age, AdExchanger, Adweek, and so on. If you're considering pursuing a career in ad tech, consider reading up on these resources and learning more about the industry.

Identify Your Transferable Skills:

Identify your skills that can transfer to the industry. Ad tech is a fast-paced industry that relies on skills such as project management, data analysis, and communication. Identify the skills you've developed in your previous job and find ways to translate those skills to ad tech; this can help you identify the most qualified roles and create a stronger resume and cover letter.

Learn from Industry Insiders:

Learning from those who have already made the transition can be extremely valuable. Seek industry mentors or people you admire working in ad tech. LinkedIn is a great way to find industry contacts and reach out to them with a simple message. It's essential to ensure you respect their time since industry insiders are often extremely busy, but reaching out can still be helpful.

Take Courses and Certifications:

Once you've identified the areas where you need to develop your skills, start learning the basics of ad tech. Plenty of online courses cover the basics, such as programmatic ad buying, data analysis, and digital marketing. Also, consider attending industry events (Tech Women Rising), webinars, or joining discussion groups to stay up to date with the latest trends and technologies in ad tech.

Start a Personal Project:

One of the best ways to demonstrate your interest in ad tech and showcase your skills to potential employers is by starting a personal project. For example, you could create an ad campaign for a local business or develop an app that uses programmatic advertising; this will help you build your skills and show your dedication to the industry and your ability to work independently.

Transitioning to a career in AdTech can be both challenging and exciting. By doing your research, networking, attending events, and gaining relevant skills, you can make a smooth and successful transition to AdTech. Remember, changing and pursuing your dream career is never too late. Remember to stay positive, be persistent, and never stop learning. You got this!