IAB works with MySpace to encourage graduates into digital careers

The IAB has partnered with MySpace to attract young talent to working in the digital media industry.

The trade body and music-focused social network are working together to create an online hub for young people interested in learning more about digital advertising, part of the IAB’s initiative to attract young talent to the industry.
The IAB launched an initiative called Talent Taskforce late last year, which aims to teach young people about the skills needed to work in digital media. The MySpace tie-up is the latest step to encourage graduates to get a job in digital.
Stuart Aitken, editorial manager at the IAB, said, “Young people outside the industry are a new audience for us and it made perfect sense to engage with them in a ready-built community and on their terms.”
The hub, at myspace.com/digitaltalent, will host content including videos, educational materials and an events calendar to widen the reach of the roadshow.
The IAB has invited workers from the industry to blog about their experience and give advice about how to get into online advertising. The hub will also give young people the chance to do work experience in IAB member companies.
Simon Daglish, VP commercial director of Fox Interactive Media, owner of MySpace, said, “It’s important we continue to attract the best creative talent to the media industry. MySpace is a valuable conduit between the media industry and a young, vibrant audience.”
As part of the recruitment drive, the IAB will be visiting universities with representatives from brands, media owners and agencies, with the first roadshow event, of which new media age is a partner, taking place this week in Bournemouth.