When you have seen a commercial or advertisement which has captivated your attention and made you get up and impulsively do whatever you were asked to do, the chances are you have just been lured by bait which a media buyer wanted you to see in the first place. When it comes to working between companies and brands as well as the media outlets such as radio stations and television studios which sell available advertising space, a professional media buyer operates as a liaison who gets everything done by establishing relationships and satisfying both parties. What Does A Media Buyer Do? In most cases, a professional media buyer will meet directly with clients to discuss their expectations, demographics and budget. This information is then used to recommend the type of networks and stations which should be targeted as well as the time periods in which their adverts should be running. There are many professional media buyers who offer additional services such as billboards, print advertisements and online marketing strategies. The media buyer communicates with the media outlets to secure advertising space and negotiate competitive prices and rates. Is A College Education Required? Most employers are only willing to hire professional media buyers who have already obtained a bachelor’s degree in marketing or advertising. At least 5 to 7 years of related experience is an essential element for senior media buyers to be considered. It's important to remember a little management experience can go a very long way and can even replace the usual prerequisite for previous buying experience. How Much Do They Get Paid? The average US salary for a media buyer position ranges between $33,000 and $45,000, according to a study conducted in May 2010 reflected on the PayScale website. Employment within this field is estimated to increase 8 percent in the years to come, which gives professional experts in this industry a promising future to look forward to.
Joseph McGriff
