When seeking work in advertising, marketing or public relations in Scotland, it's worth broadening your search instead of focusing your efforts solely on Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Many businesses are based outwith these cities and they too have the need for publicity. The communications industry has responded to this need with many agencies basing themselves in smaller cities and towns across the country.

For example, Aberdeen is home to a fair amount of creative communications specialists due to the demands of the local oil industry.

Advertising

You'll find various agencies in the Shore area of Edinburgh. This is, arguably, Scotland's creative capital. Some agencies have been known to have offices in the boats lining the area's docks!

Glasgow also boasts its fair share of advertising agencies. Some companies work outside the two biggest cities, as do independent consultants. Look into opportunities in Aberdeen, Dundee, Inverness, Ayr, Falkirk and other towns.

From time to time, agencies will advertise placement opportunities. This is a great way of getting your foot in the door and gaining valuable contacts.

It is possible to study Advertising in Scotland, both at a bachelor and master level. Universities where these studies can be undertaken include Napier in Edinburgh and Robert Gordon in Aberdeen.

Marketing

Edinburgh is one of the UK's leading cities in terms of the number of digital marketing agencies. From branches of multinational businesses to independent agencies, the city has many opportunities for graduates looking to make a headstart in the industry.

It is one of the industries that is growing almost consistently so opportunities appear on quite a regular basis. Junior roles include copywriter and search marketing executive positions with potential to become editors and account managers.

There are some, smaller agencies in other cities too, such as Aberdeen and Glasgow.

Marketing can be studied at various universities across the country, including Stirling and Glasgow Caledonian.

Public Relations

PR agencies and independent consultants can be found all across the country. This makes the job search easier for anyone looking for work experience, as it may not be necessary to have to temporarily relocate.

Some well known international companies have branches in Glasgow and Edinburgh, but there are more independent businesses, some of which specialise in specific areas such as consumer PR, public affairs and corporate PR.

Of course, the cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh are leaders in public relations Scotland, but there are also agencies in Inverness, Dundee, Aberdeen, Stirling, Dunfermline and elsewhere.

If you are willing to move for work, applying for positions in smaller cities may mean less competition. Clients are often local businesses trying to tap into broader markets so jobs can be very rewarding.

Anyone looking to study PR can do so in Scotland at Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh and others.