Different than large industrial corporations, the companies in the creative industry are rather small – nevertheless the field is growing and offers attractive job opportunities. To become more acquainted with the industry, the students came to the Seidenstraße 57. Somewhat hidden in an enclosed courtyard with other agencies, around 50 creative minds work here in different disciplines such as Marketing, Internet, Design and Public Relations.
“There’s a wide variety of careers in the media field. Very few students know what exactly graphic designers or PR consultants do and what their day to day duties consist of,” explains Oliver Hahr from oha communication. “We’re pleased to have had the opportunity to give the students some insight. In this field there are many opportunities for qualified people who want to work as specialists in the network and at eye level with partners and clients.”
Curiosity, openness and creative drive are all requested abilities in the creative industry. The students experienced this first hand during the visit with the PR experts from oha communication and Engenhart Stuttgart, an office for graphic design. The event took place as a part of the new school subject “Life skills,” established by the Hölderlin Gymnasium just two years ago.
Companies from different areas of the economy support the school by providing practical experience. Additionally, the Junior Chamber organizes application and presentation training sessions as well as factory tours. As an association of young, entrepreneurial people in Stuttgart, members hail from various industries, particularly small to medium sized firms.
According to a study conducted by the Federal Statistical Office in 2008, nearly 60% of the work force in Germany was employed by small to medium sized companies in 2005. Furthermore, according to the Federal Employment Agency, the rate was as high as 72% for trainees − a good reason to establish and strengthen contacts between such companies and students early.
