【2026 Latest】Complete List of 52 Advertising Agencies in Japan | Advice for Changing Careers into an Advertising Agency

“People often think the advertising industry looks glamorous and fun—but what kinds of companies actually exist?”

“You hear names like Dentsu and Hakuhodo, but it seems there are many other excellent companies too. I don’t even know where to start researching…”

Many people likely begin their job-hunting or career-change research while feeling exactly this way.
Although they are collectively called advertising agencies, their business models, scale, and areas of expertise vary widely.

By reading this article to the end, your vague admiration for the industry will turn into a concrete career plan, and you’ll be able to take the first step toward choosing a company you won’t regret.

If you’re interested in web marketing, be sure to also check out our Web Marketing Handbook, which is currently available for free.

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• Explaining how to launch your own media
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Start This First! What Kind of Industry Are Advertising Agencies?

Before looking at specific advertising agencies, let’s first review the basics of what role advertising agencies play as an industry.

In short, advertising agencies are professional organizations that solve their clients’ (advertisers’) business and marketing challenges through advertising and communication strategies.

Their work covers a wide range of activities, and there are many different types of agencies.
By understanding these fundamentals, you’ll be able to better grasp the unique characteristics and strengths of each company introduced later in this article.

Main Responsibilities of Advertising Agencies: Partners in Solving Client Challenges

The work of an advertising agency is not limited to simply creating TV commercials or posters.

To solve client challenges, teams of specialists collaborate on a wide variety of tasks.
The overall workflow can be broadly divided into the following four phases.

In this way, advertising agencies play the role of providing one-stop support for a full range of marketing activities—from research and analysis to planning, production, execution, and continuous improvement.

Related Article:
26 Advertising Agencies Strong in Web Marketing and the Types of Companies That Should Use Them

There Are Three Main Types of Advertising Agencies

Advertising agencies can be broadly classified into three main types based on their origins and areas of expertise.
To help you think about which type of company you may be interested in, it’s important to first understand these classifications.

How Many Advertising Agencies Are There in Japan? Industry Market Size Overview

Some readers may be wondering, “So how many advertising agencies are there in Japan to begin with?”

According to a survey by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), the number of business establishments in Japan’s advertising industry amounts to several thousand companies [1].

In addition, according to “Advertising Expenditures in Japan 2023” released by Dentsu Inc., total advertising spending in Japan reached a record high of 7.3167 trillion yen in 2023 [2].
Internet advertising, in particular, has been the main driver of growth, accounting for more than 40% of total advertising expenditures.

As these figures show, while a large number of companies compete within the market, the industry as a whole continues to grow, making it a highly dynamic and vibrant sector.

Top 10 Major Advertising Agencies in Japan by Revenue

Among the many advertising agencies, many people first want to learn about the major players that lead the industry.

Revenue is one of the key indicators for understanding a company’s scale and influence.

Here, based on the latest financial results published by each company, we introduce a Top 10 ranking of major Japanese advertising agencies by revenue.
By reviewing this ranking, you can grasp the overall power structure of the industry at a glance.

Note: Depending on each company’s business model, the terms “sales” and “revenue” may be used differently. However, in this ranking, they are treated as equivalent indicators.
Note: ADK Holdings is a privately held company, so the figures shown are estimates. The revenues of transcosmos and Septeni are consolidated figures that include businesses other than digital marketing.

1st Place: Dentsu Group Inc.

Dentsu Group Inc. is Japan’s largest and one of the world’s leading advertising companies.
It operates globally through two networks: “Dentsu,” which is responsible for its domestic business in Japan, and “dentsu,” which handles its overseas operations.

Company Name: Dentsu Group Inc.
Founded: July 1, 1901
Headquarters: 1-8-1 Higashi-Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Business Areas: Marketing communications, digital services, creative, promotion, media content, and other advertising-related businesses

Its greatest strengths lie in its overwhelming media buying power and its extensive domestic and international network.
In recent years, the company has also been placing strong emphasis on consulting services that support corporate digital transformation (DX).

2nd Place: Hakuhodo DY Holdings Inc.

Alongside Dentsu, this company is one of the leading forces in Japan’s advertising industry.
With Hakuhodo, Daiko, and Yomiuri Advertising under its umbrella, the group provides a wide range of services across its entire organization.

Company Name: Hakuhodo DY Holdings Inc.
Founded: December 3, 2003
Headquarters: Akasaka Biz Tower, 5-3-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Business Areas: Branding, public relations, digital marketing, content development, and more

The company promotes its unique philosophy of “Seikatsusha Thinking,” which focuses on generating problem-solving ideas from the perspective of consumers and everyday people.
It is also highly regarded for its high-quality creative capabilities and has received numerous advertising awards both in Japan and overseas.

3rd Place: CyberAgent, Inc.

CyberAgent boasts the No.1 track record in Japan in the field of internet advertising.
With advertising as its core business, the company has diversified into multiple areas, including media services (ABEMA) and gaming.

Company Name: CyberAgent, Inc.
Founded: March 18, 1998
Headquarters: Abema Towers, 40-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Business Areas: Internet advertising, media business, gaming business, investment and incubation

The company’s strengths include AI-powered advertising operations and influencer marketing.
It is also known for a corporate culture in which young employees can thrive, making it particularly popular among highly motivated students and job changers.

4th Place: ADK Holdings Inc.

ADK Holdings is a major full-service advertising agency with strong expertise in marketing that leverages anime content such as Doraemon.
In 2019, it became a subsidiary of the U.S. investment fund Bain Capital and was taken private.

Company Name: ADK Holdings Inc.
Founded: March 19, 1956
Headquarters: Toranomon Hills Mori Tower, 1-23-1 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Business Areas: Marketing solutions, content business, and related services

The company is currently pursuing a transformation into a “customer experience creation company,” focusing on solution development that leverages data and technology.
Its privatization has enabled faster decision-making and bold business investments.

5th Place: JR East Marketing & Communications, Inc. (jeki)

This company is the in-house advertising agency of the JR East Group.
It has overwhelming strengths in transportation advertising, particularly out-of-home (OOH) media in stations and trains.

Company Name: JR East Marketing & Communications, Inc.
Founded: May 2, 1988
Headquarters: JR Ebisu Building, 1-5-5 Ebisu-Minami, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Business Areas: Media business, communication business, content business

The company offers unique proposals by leveraging JR Group assets, such as marketing analysis using Suica mobility data and event planning in station buildings.
It combines a stable management foundation with distinctive competitive advantages.

Companies Ranked 6th to 10th

The companies following the top five are also influential advertising agencies, each with its own unique strengths.
Below is a brief overview of the companies ranked from 6th to 10th.

• Tokyu Agency Inc.
  An in-house agency of the Tokyu Group, with strengths in transportation advertising and marketing linked to urban development in areas such as Shibuya.
• Daiko Advertising Inc.
  One of the core companies of the Hakuhodo DY Group, with a particularly strong presence in the Kansai region.
• transcosmos Inc.
  Provides integrated services ranging from digital advertising operations to website development and call center services.
• Septeni Holdings Co., Ltd.
  A leading digital marketing company with strengths in AI utilization and manga-based content.
• Yomiuri Advertising Inc.
  A member of the Hakuhodo DY Group, specializing in solution development based on research into “urban consumers.”

【By Purpose & Strength】Which Advertising Agency Is Right for You?

Beyond major corporations, Japan is home to many attractive advertising agencies.
Below, we introduce notable companies categorized by their purpose and strengths, such as full-service, digital, specialized, and in-house agencies.

As you read, think about what you want to do at an advertising agency and what kind of work environment suits you best—this will help you find the company that’s right for you.

【Full-Service Advertising Agencies】Companies Handling a Wide Range of Industries & Media

Full-service advertising agencies solve client challenges using a wide variety of advertising methods, from mass media such as TV commercials to web-based promotions.
They are ideal for those who want to gain broad experience across industries or work on large-scale projects.

Daiko Advertising Inc.

A full-service advertising agency that is part of the Hakuhodo DY Group, combining a stable foundation with unique strengths.
Daiko emphasizes long-term relationships with clients through its philosophy of “Customer Value Management.”
Another key feature is its strong client base in western Japan, with headquarters located in the Kansai region.

Yomiuri Advertising Inc. (YOMIKO)

Commonly known as YOMIKO, this company plays a core role within the Hakuhodo DY Group.
It operates its own think tank, the Institute for Urban Living, which conducts in-depth research on changes in values and behaviors of urban residents.
By leveraging these insights, YOMIKO is known for its unique and strategic problem-solving proposals.

Frontier International Inc.

An independent, Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime-listed full-service advertising agency with strong expertise in sales promotion (SP).
The company excels at creating experiential value that directly stimulates consumer purchasing behavior, such as event planning, event operations, and in-store promotional campaigns.
Its greatest strength lies in its ability to deliver projects end-to-end, from planning and production to execution.

【Digital / Web Advertising Agencies】Companies Specialized in Online Advertising

With the widespread use of smartphones, the online advertising market has grown rapidly.
Digital advertising agencies are specialists in web-based marketing, including listing ads, social media advertising, SEO, and data analysis.
For those looking to build expertise in a fast-growing market, this is a highly attractive career option.

Septeni Holdings Co., Ltd.

One of the leading companies in the digital marketing industry.
Septeni is known for advanced initiatives such as high-precision ad operations using AI and creative strategies that utilize manga content.
The company also places strong emphasis on developing specialized talent essential for the digital age, including data scientists and AI engineers.

OPT, Inc. (Digital Holdings)

A “digital shift company” that supports corporate transformation through digital strategies.
Rather than simply managing advertising operations, OPT provides consulting services aimed at driving overall business growth for its clients.
This company is well-suited for those who want to support corporate DX initiatives from a strategic, upstream perspective.

transcosmos Inc.

A company offering an exceptionally wide range of services in the digital marketing domain.
In addition to ad operations, it provides website development and management, EC site support, and even call center and back-office services—making its one-stop, comprehensive service offering its greatest strength.
The company is also actively expanding globally, with offices around the world.

Fullspeed Inc.

Founded in 2001, Fullspeed is a web advertising agency that supports companies ranging from large enterprises to SMEs across various industries.
Its industry-specialized organizational structure enables highly tailored support based on deep understanding of clients’ business models and past case studies.
Leveraging extensive experience, the company offers end-to-end support to help solve client challenges.

Service Page

【Specialized Agencies】Unique Companies with Expertise in Specific Fields

Rather than covering every area, many agencies focus on specific industries or advertising methods, enabling them to demonstrate exceptional expertise that sets them apart.
These companies are ideal for those who want to become top players in a niche field or leverage their personal interests and expertise in their work.

BtoB Marketing Specialist: Techro Co., Ltd.

Techro Co., Ltd. is a web marketing support company specializing in lead generation for BtoB (business-to-business) companies.
It excels in owned media management and content marketing, contributing to the growth of numerous client businesses.
In December 2024, the company was listed on the Fukuoka Stock Exchange’s Fukuoka PRO Market, marking it as a rapidly growing company.

【Techro Support】
Success Story ①: LG Breakthrough Co., Ltd. “Jichitai Business.com”

Media name	Jichitai Business.com
Media URL	https://www.b2lg.co.jp/jichitai/
Concept / Theme	Information to help succeed in the local government business
Operating company	LG Breakthrough Co., Ltd.
Launch year	2017
Objectives	Lead generation New customer acquisition

“Jichitai Business.com” is a company that provides solutions for businesses seeking to contract work from local governments and public institutions.

Although the company had previously launched an owned media platform, they believed that there were no meaningful online touchpoints with companies, and as a result, the media was not actively operated.

To break this situation, they implemented content marketing. After about six months, page views grew by approximately 20 times. The key reason for this growth was that they continuously recorded performance changes as numerical data when creating content and used those insights to drive improvements.

They also achieved their goal of leveraging the owned media as a core business asset.

Despite being a small company, this is a successful example of automating sales through the effective use of an owned media platform.

Reference: “[PV Increased 20x in Six Months] Increasing Site Traffic Through Owned Media | LG Breakthrough Co., Ltd.”

Techro’s achievements in supporting LG Breakthrough’s content marketing are introduced on our “Case Studies” page.

【Techro Support】
Success Story ②: J&U Co., Ltd. “PAPER AD”

Media name	PAPER AD
Media URL	https://j-you.co.jp/blog/
Concept / Theme	Sharing information about offline advertising
Operating company	J&U Co., Ltd.
Launch year	2020
Objectives	Lead generation New customer acquisition

J&U Co., Ltd., an advertising agency, received support from Techro starting from the launch of their owned media. By launching and continuously operating “PAPER AD,” they succeeded in acquiring new leads from industries that had never generated inquiries before.

Subsequently, we also supported the implementation of HubSpot for lead management and nurturing.

By organizing sales processes and configuring HubSpot, they achieved centralized management and improved efficiency in sales operations. Visualizing sales and inventory status led to a 5% increase in revenue.

You can find more details in the following case studies:

Reference: “Achieving Inquiries from Other Industries and Boosting Sales Motivation Through Owned Media | J&U Co., Ltd.”
Reference: “[Revenue Up 5%] Visualizing Sales Through HubSpot Operations Support—What Were the Measures That Significantly Increased Revenue and Profit Margins Compared to the Previous Year? | J&U Co., Ltd.”

Techro’s achievements in supporting J&U’s content marketing are introduced on our “Case Studies” page.

Reference: “Achieving Inquiries from Other Industries and Boosting Sales Motivation Through Owned Media | J&U Co., Ltd.”
Reference:“[Revenue Up 5%] Visualizing Sales Through HubSpot Operations Support—What Were the Measures That Significantly Increased Revenue and Profit Margins Compared to the Previous Year? | J&U Co., Ltd.”

Techro’s achievements in supporting J&U’s content marketing are introduced on our “Case Studies” page.

【Techro Support】
Success Story ③: Reloclub Co., Ltd. “RELO General Affairs & HR Times”

Media name	RELO General Affairs & HR Times
Media URL	https://www.reloclub.jp/relotimes/article
Concept / Theme	Information related to general affairs and human resources
Operating company	Reloclub Co., Ltd.
Launch year	2023
Objectives	Lead generation New customer acquisition

Reloclub Co., Ltd. provides employee benefits outsourcing services and operates “RELO General Affairs & HR Times” as its owned media.

Although the site had strong domain authority and high page views, the challenge was that it was not generating inquiries.

After outsourcing the media operations to Techro, we conducted CV-focused keyword selection and site improvements. As a result, inquiries increased, and the media evolved into a stronger revenue-contributing asset.

This is a successful example of revenue growth achieved through CV optimization.

Reference: “Optimizing Media Conversions Through Product-Relevant Keyword Selection and Site Improvements—What Is Techro’s Trust-Based, Hands-On Support? | Reloclub Co., Ltd.”

Techro’s achievements in supporting Reloclub’s content marketing are introduced on our “Case Studies” page.

【Techro Support】
Success Story ④: NTT Printing Co., Ltd. “Kachiaru Support”

Media name	Kachiaru Support (Owned Media)
Media URL	https://kachiarusupport.nttprint.com/column
Concept / Theme	Introducing BPO services
Operating company	NTT Printing Co., Ltd.
Launch year	2024
Objectives	Lead generation New customer acquisition

NTT Printing Co., Ltd. provides BPO services and operates the “Kachiaru Support Owned Media.”

With limited internal resources, the company needed to prepare various content for the owned media while also managing other initiatives such as exhibiting at trade shows once or twice a month. They recognized the need for a partner both in terms of resources and expertise.

By outsourcing owned media operations, they successfully reduced internal workload while achieving tangible results.

Reference: “Achieving Increased PV and CV Through Essential Content Creation—What Is the Support Like That Combines Close Collaboration and Deep Expertise? | NTT Printing Co., Ltd.”

Techro’s achievements in supporting NTT Printing’s content marketing are introduced on our “Case Studies” page.

【Techro Support】
Success Story ⑤: JAF Media Works Co., Ltd. “JAF Torecolumn”

Media name	JAF Torecolumn
Media URL	https://jaf-training.jp/column/
Concept / Theme	Sharing information on traffic safety
Operating company	JAF Media Works Co., Ltd.
Launch year	2024–
Objectives	Lead generation New customer acquisition

JAF Media Works Co., Ltd. provides JAF Traffic Safety Training and operates “JAF Torecolumn” as its owned media.

The company did not have an internal marketing department. Although they attempted to work on customer acquisition, they were unsure whether their efforts were effective or which initiatives would deliver the best results.

They therefore requested Techro’s owned media support. From launching the media to acquiring page views and conversions, Techro provided end-to-end support, resulting in successful lead generation through content.

Reference: “Hands-On Support From New Owned Media Launch to PV and CV Acquisition—What Was the Data-Driven Proposal That Became the Deciding Factor? | JAF Media Works Co., Ltd.”

Techro’s achievements in supporting JAF Media Works’ content marketing are introduced on our “Case Studies” page.

Influencer Marketing Specialist: BitStar, Inc.

BitStar is considered a pioneer in influencer marketing in Japan.
The company has built an industry-leading and unique business model, including the creator support platform “BitStar Agent” for YouTubers and other creators, as well as its own in-house production studios.

This is an attractive environment for people who love social media and video content and have a passion for creating new trends.

Recruitment Consulting Specialist: Ageha Inc.

Ageha Inc. is a unique company specializing in advertising and consulting for corporate recruitment activities.
From recruitment branding strategy development to the production of recruitment websites, brochures, and videos shown at company information sessions, the company designs every aspect of communication to effectively convey a company’s appeal to students and job seekers.

This company is well-suited for those who find fulfillment in supporting corporate growth through the field of human resources.

【In-House Agencies】Companies Dedicated to Advertising for Specific Corporations

In-house agencies are advertising agencies established primarily to handle the advertising and promotional activities of a specific parent company.
Because they have a large parent company as their main client, they tend to enjoy stable management and can develop deep expertise in that industry or product category.

They are ideal for those with a strong interest in a particular industry or for those who want to work in a stable environment over the long term.

Tokyu Agency Inc.

As the name suggests, this is the in-house agency of the Tokyu Group.
The company’s strengths include promotions linked to urban development in Shibuya, transportation advertising along Tokyu railway lines, and marketing activities integrated with the group’s real estate, commercial facilities, and hotel businesses.

For those who want to create communication strategies on the large stage of an entire “city,” this offers a fascinating field of work.

Delphys Inc. (now Toyota Coniq Pro Inc.)

This company originated as the in-house agency of Toyota Motor Corporation, one of the world’s leading automobile manufacturers.
Today, it operates as a business company responsible for Toyota’s marketing transformation and DX initiatives, with an even higher level of specialization.

It offers a highly dynamic environment where one can engage in cutting-edge automotive marketing from a global perspective.

I&S BBDO Inc.

A member of BBDO Worldwide, part of the Omnicom Group—one of the world’s largest advertising holding companies.
Having once been part of the Fujisankei Communications Group, the company has established a unique position that combines strong domestic experience with a global network.

This is an appealing option for those who want exposure to both international corporate culture and the Japanese business environment.

【By Location】Advertising Agencies in Major Business Areas

For those who have a preference for where they want to work, below is a list of representative advertising agencies located in major business districts where many agencies are concentrated.
Choosing a company based on location, in line with your lifestyle plans, can also be an effective approach.

Toranomon / Shimbashi / Shiodome Area

The center of Japanese business, home to many large corporate headquarters.

• Dentsu Group Inc.
• ADK Holdings Inc.
• I&S BBDO Inc.
• Frontier International Inc.

Akasaka / Roppongi Area

An area with many TV stations and foreign-owned companies, known for its creative and international atmosphere.

• Hakuhodo DY Holdings Inc.
• TBWA HAKUHODO Inc.

Shibuya / Ebisu Area

A vibrant area where IT and web startups and fast-growing companies are concentrated.

• CyberAgent, Inc.
• East Japan Marketing & Communications, Inc. (jeki)
• Septeni Holdings Co., Ltd.
• Techro Co., Ltd.

No Regrets! 5 Key Points for Choosing the Right Advertising Agency for You

We’ve introduced many companies so far, and the sheer number of options may feel overwhelming.
That’s why here are five key perspectives to help you find the best company for you among countless choices.

Keeping these points in mind will help prevent mismatches after joining and enable a career choice you won’t regret.

1. Choose by Business Scope & Domain (Full-Service vs. Specialized)

The first thing to consider is what you want to do.
Depending on your career plan, the type of company that suits you will differ.

You want broad experience and to work on large-scale projects
→ Full-service advertising agencies are a good fit. By working with clients across many industries and advertising methods, you can grow into a highly adaptable marketer.

You want to master a specific skill and become a specialist
→ Specialized agencies are ideal. By deepening your expertise in areas such as digital, BtoB, or recruitment marketing, you can build high market value as a professional.

2. Choose by Company Size (Large Corporations vs. SMEs / Startups)

Work style and experience vary greatly depending on company size.
Neither is inherently better—choose what aligns with your values.

3. Choose by Company Culture & Work Environment

Just as important as salary and business content is whether the company culture suits you.
Whether you prefer an energetic, sports-team-like atmosphere or a calm, logical environment will significantly affect your comfort at work.

4. Choose by Client Industry Strengths

If you have a specific interest—such as cosmetics advertising or automotive promotion—check the company’s past work.
Many agencies showcase previous projects and case studies on their websites.

This will help you see which industries they work with most and what creative styles they excel at.
Agencies with strong track records in industries you’re interested in offer a higher chance of working on projects you care about after joining.

5. Choose by Benefits & Training Programs

Especially for new graduates, it’s crucial to consider whether the company offers a supportive environment for long-term career growth.
Check the company’s recruitment site for systems such as:

• Employee Benefits: housing allowances, childcare and caregiving support, refresh leave, self-development support, etc.
• Training Programs: onboarding training, tier-based training, specialized skill training, overseas training, etc.

A company’s internal systems are also a barometer of how much it values its employees.

The Reality of Working at an Advertising Agency

Advertising agencies consist of various specialized roles, and projects are carried out through teamwork.

Let’s take a look at the representative job positions and understand the role and responsibilities of each.

Related Article: What Is a Web Consultant? A Complete Guide to Job Responsibilities, Salary, and How to Become One With No Experience

What Is the Average Annual Salary? Salary Levels by Company Type and Age Group

When choosing a job, annual income is an extremely important factor.
The advertising industry tends to offer higher salary levels compared to many other industries.

Based on data from companies’ securities reports and employee review websites, the average annual salaries are generally as follows:

• Major full-service agencies (e.g., Dentsu, Hakuhodo):
  ¥10,000,000 – ¥15,000,000
• Large internet-focused agencies (e.g., CyberAgent):
  ¥7,000,000 – ¥9,000,000
• Mid-sized and specialized agencies:
  ¥5,000,000 – ¥7,000,000

Of course, these figures represent averages across all employees and can vary significantly depending on age and position.
In general, many professionals start at around ¥5,000,000 in their 20s, and it is not uncommon for salaries to exceed ¥10,000,000 in their 30s.

Many companies operate under a strong performance-based compensation system, making it possible to earn a high income at a young age depending on individual ability and results.

Five Key Traits of People Who Are Suited to Working at an Advertising Agency

Many people wonder, “Am I suited to working at an advertising agency?”
The more of the following five traits you possess, the higher your potential to succeed in this industry. Use them as a reference for self-analysis.

1. Strong Communication Skills

This job involves constant interaction with clients and internal teams.
The ability to accurately understand others’ intentions and clearly communicate your own ideas is essential.

2. Sensitivity to Trends and Social Changes

People’s interests and trends are constantly changing.
Those who are naturally curious, stay up to date with new information and services, and can apply them to their work are well suited to this field.

3. High Stress Tolerance and the Ability to Enjoy Pressure

Advertising work often involves handling large budgets and meeting tight deadlines.
Mental toughness—the ability to view pressure and difficult situations as opportunities for growth—is required.

4. A Balance of Logical Thinking and Creativity

Successful professionals can balance logical, data-driven strategy building with creative thinking that generates ideas capable of moving people’s emotions.

5. A Strong Willingness to Learn and Embrace Change

The advertising industry—especially the digital field—evolves rapidly.
A continuous learning mindset and flexibility in adapting to change are crucial.

The Rewards and Challenges of Working at an Advertising Agency

Although the advertising industry has a glamorous image, it also comes with its challenges.
To avoid gaps between expectations and reality after joining a company, it is important to understand both the rewards and the difficulties.

Rewards

• Your work can have a significant impact on society
• You can be deeply involved in businesses across a wide range of industries
• Working with teams that have diverse areas of expertise is stimulating
• Results are visible in the form of sales figures and brand recognition

Challenges

• High pressure to meet client expectations
• Tight deadlines can lead to long working hours
• Constant need to keep learning new information
• Strong multitasking skills are required to manage multiple projects simultaneously

Three Steps to Successfully Getting a Job or Changing Careers to an Advertising Agency

Once you have identified companies that suit you, the next step is preparing for the selection process.
Here are three concrete steps to help you succeed in landing a job or changing careers into an advertising agency.

By following these steps carefully, you can approach the selection process with confidence and secure an offer.

STEP 1. Thorough Research and Self-Analysis

First, conduct in-depth company research and self-analysis.

Company Research:
Study the company’s official website, IR (investor relations) information, and press releases to understand not only its business operations but also its management strategy and future direction.

Self-Analysis:
Clarify why you want to work in the advertising industry rather than another industry, and why you are interested in that specific company. Connect these reasons to your own experiences and articulate them clearly.
Use the “five key selection points” to define your personal career criteria.

These two elements—company understanding and self-understanding—form the foundation for all subsequent steps.

STEP 2. Crafting a Compelling Motivation Statement and Self-Promotion

Based on the insights gained in STEP 1, create application documents that resonate with hiring managers.

Motivation Statement:
Clearly explain why that specific company is the right choice. Show concretely how your strengths and experience can contribute to the company’s business and problem-solving efforts.

Self-Promotion:
Demonstrate your abilities using specific examples from your academic life or previous work experience.
Link your story to the skills required in advertising agencies (see the “five traits” section) for greater impact.

Portfolio:
For creative roles, preparing a portfolio that showcases your work is essential.

STEP 3. Utilizing Recruitment and Career Change Agencies

If you feel uncertain about proceeding alone or want to move more efficiently, using a recruitment or career-change agency is highly recommended.
Many agencies specialize in the advertising and marketing industries.

Q&A About Advertising Agencies

Finally, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions from people aspiring to work at advertising agencies.

Q1. Can I change careers to an advertising agency with no prior experience?

A. Yes, it is possible—depending on the role and your age.

For people in their 20s, especially recent graduates, there are ample opportunities through second-new-graduate recruitment programs that emphasize potential.
Sales roles and web marketing–related positions are relatively open to candidates without prior experience.

Experience in marketing, sales planning, or public relations at a business company can also be a strong selling point.

Q2. Is the image of advertising agencies as “extremely demanding” true?

A. Conditions are improving, but busy periods and roles still exist.

Due to work-style reform initiatives, long working hours across the industry are gradually being reduced.
However, busy periods—such as before major project deadlines or due to client demands—do still exist.

Work-style flexibility varies by company, so it is important to check real working conditions through alumni visits, casual interviews, and review websites.

Conclusion: Find the Right Advertising Agency and Build Your Future Career

In this article, we have provided a comprehensive overview of advertising agencies in Japan—from major industry rankings to purpose-based company lists and tips for choosing the right employer.

The advertising industry is fast-changing and far from easy.
However, it is also a highly rewarding field where you can make a significant social impact and grow through exposure to diverse businesses.

Use the knowledge gained from this article as a foundation, proactively gather and analyze information, and find the company that will enable you to build the best possible career.

If you are interested in web marketing, be sure to also check out the free Web Marketing Textbook currently available for download.

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We offer a comprehensive support menu and track record, from strategy design to production, operation, and performance measurement.

• Explaining how to launch your own media
• Explaining content marketing
• A must-see for those who want to maximize the effectiveness of their owned media
• And more

Techro Inc. CEO Amano

Studied data science at the National University of Singapore and the Indian Institutes of Technology. Founded a startup as a sophomore in university and operated the study-abroad media platform “Koukanryugaku.com” for about a year and a half before selling the business. Later launched a B2B marketing support business, leveraging expertise in content marketing. Specializes in B2B marketing, with deep knowledge of SEO and marketing automation (MA) tools.

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