The original version of this article was written due to the influx of bad news for the Chicago ad agency community - such as the 118 year old JWT office closing, then summarily announcing a limited staff would remain. As a result I thought I would compile a list of resources that I have found helpful in the past. Happy hunting!
ADMAVEN's Chicago Advertising, PR, Media, and Marketing Recruiter Roundup:
Be it advertising agency creative, account services, project management, public relations, media, client side marketing, or social media and community relations, these staffing and recruiting firms are your direct link to landing interviews in relevant industry communities. One of the first - and most important - steps you can take as a candidate is to schedule interviews with as many of them as possible!
DISCLOSURE:
I have personally visited each of the companies listed in this article. I have not been paid to endorse or support any company listed here. If you are looking for a job in advertising, these companies are one of your best starting points.
Aquent
500 West Madison, Suite 2600
Chicago, IL 60661
312.869.3000
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Featuring a robust digital offering and specialized recruiters for Chicago interactive talent, Aquent represents a powerhouse in the Chicago market. Aquent also features placement outside of Chicago with offices in most major US cities and globally.
The Buzz Company
62 West Huron, 2nd Floor
Chicago, IL 60610
312.255.0808
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A boutique agency with a personal touch, The Buzz Company has strong local connections with many advertising agencies. Buzz Co. specializes in creative talent but caters to all types of ad agency folk.
Creative Circle
233 North Michigan Ave., Suite 1960
Chicago, IL 60601
312.329.9990
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With offices in Chicago and five other major US cities, Creative Circle takes a generalist approach to staffing ad agencies around the country. A good option for anyone looking to be placed in small to medium Chicago based agencies.
Creative Circle adds:
The recruiters who work here [Creative Circle] all come from an ad agency or marketing background so we understand this business and use our industry knowledge to make smart placements. We work with any type of client who has a marketing or advertising need; ranging from client service or marketing strategists to designers for all media and Flash developers.
The Creative Group
205 North Michigan Ave., Suite 3301
Chicago, IL 60601
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Owned by Robert Half International, The Creative Group's reach extends beyond Chicago ad agencies. If you are also considering positions in the marketing departments of mid to large sized companies, The Creative Group may welcome your resume.
Digital People
55 West Monroe, Suite 2660
Chicago, IL 60603
312.606.9097
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As the name suggests, Digital People is focused on new media and the creative/account talent that brings it to life. Offering training and other ancillary services to sharpen candidate competencies, Digital People can help hone your skills before that key interview.
H2 Agency, Inc.
601 South LaSalle, Suite 502
Chicago, IL 60605
312.427.0192
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Everything about H2 Agency says boutique! Offering a personal touch, H2 seeks to place talent in a number of small to medium sized agencies in Chicago. If one on one is your preference, H2 is well suited to the task.
Lucas Group
230 West Monroe, Suite 850
Chicago, IL 60606
312.357.1160
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Once focused primarily on Executive level recruiting, Lucas Group now works with ad agency talent as part of it's core business. Retaining close ties to many ancillary businesses, Lucas Group is a good fit for the candidate looking to branch out beyond advertising agencies.
Melinda Holm + Associates
7630 Madison
Forest Park, IL 60130
708.488.9701
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Located outside the loop, Melinda Holm + Associates has a greater abundance of suburban agency clients. If the burbs aren't off limits you may want to give them a call!
Paladin Recruiting and Staffing
200 West Madison, Suite 1805
Chicago, IL 60606
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Paladin staffs a wide variety of companies - from temporary to full time positions - including ad agencies. Paladin's "go the extra mile" mentality you give you confidence as you pursue that next big opportunity.
SmartDept. Inc.
309 West Washington, Suite 430
Chicago, IL 60606
312.284.1350
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With a unique office and a unique ethos, SmartDept. consults with talent seeking a personalized approach to the job hunt. Offering positions at all levels and in a variety of boutique to large Chicago ad agencies, SmartDept. should be placed on your to-do list.
The Wunderland Group
200 West Jackson, Suite 1700
Chicago, IL 60606
312.506.8596
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The personal touch is prevalent at The Wunderland Group. Based in Chicago and focused on the local market, Wunderland boasts 30 years of experience matching candidates to local creative (web and print), Marketing, Advertising, and PR companies.
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