Did you know that JU has their own student-run advertising agency?
Yes, it is true — they call themselves Hype.
EDIT sits down with the board members of Hype: Moa Jonsson (President), Lisa Kjellman (Vice President), and Tilda Åhl (Head of Communication), who shares all the latest details about the ambitious committee located at HLK.
To start off — what is Hype?
Moa: We are an advertising agency located at HLK that helps external companies with their marketing — such as websites, social media, and graphic profiles.
And the board, what are your different responsibilities?
Moa: As the President of Hype, I am also a part of the board of LOK and therefore attend meetings every Monday. Besides that, my main responsibility is pushing Hype forward by making sure that everything within the groups and committee works smoothly.
Lisa: As the Vice President of Hype, I take care of the financials — such as sending out invoices and keeping track of the budget. If someone needs help or support in their role, I step in! Also, if Moa is unable to attend one of the LOK meetings, then I will take her place at that meeting.
Tilda: As the Head of Communications, I am in charge of creating and publishing internal and external communication. We have an Instagram (@hype_ju), but we are also trying to become more active on Facebook and LinkedIn.
Who can become a member of Hype? Is it only for HLK students?
Moa: No it isn’t! We are located at HLK, but we need so much knowledge — the kind of knowledge that, for example, students from JTH have with graphic design. And being a part of Hype would be a great experience for them, since Hype really is something to put on your resumé. Many of the companies that we have worked with have admired the initiative of Hype and said that it is great that we are already gaining experience since the industry is all about experience!
And the groups, what are their different responsibilities?
Tilda: So, this semester we have four groups — and each group contains one copywriter, one art director, one social media manager, and one project manager. We also have photographers, but they move between groups and don’t belong to one specific group.
Copywriter: is in charge over the text portion of the marketing process, such as captions for posts and texts for websites.
Art Director: is responsible for all the visuals, such as editing and cutting videos, and creating logos and websites. It is beneficial if you have experience in the Adobe programs.
Social Media Manager: is focusing on creating content for the company’s social media channels. Being continuous with posting can sometimes be difficult for companies — and that’s why social media managers are there! To keep their social media updated and relevant.
Project Manager: steers the ship forward! The position comes with lots of responsibility and is an amazing opportunity to learn how to communicate as a leader. The project manager has the main contact with the company, attends weekly meetings with the board members, and updates the group about what the company wants and needs.
How much time does Hype require?
Moa: It depends and varies from week to week, but generally the members should spend approximately 3 to 5 hours a week. However, if it is exam week we are not asking you to spend too much time — since you should focus more on your exam.
Tilda: The groups should meet at least once a week. This to check in, plan, and maintain the group dynamic.
Lisa: We — the board members — also have a meeting with the project managers every week, where we discuss how things are going with the different companies and check whether the groups need help, or things like that.
Tell us more about the companies, how does that work?
Moa: Sometimes we contact companies and other times companies contact us, then we work with them for one semester.
Lisa: Many companies are not comfortable with the new type of marketing, such as social media. They might not have the time or skill needed, which is where Hype becomes such a good thing — since we are students who study and are interested in this type of marketing.
Tilda: This semester we are working with a wide selection of companies: a dental clinic, an interior design agency, a photographer, and an organic food company.
What’s the best thing about Hype?
Moa: That you learn sooo much! You are able to apply and absorb the things you learn in class in a completely different way. You also meet people who are driven within the same professional field as you — and you learn a lot from each other!
Tilda: I totally agree! Hype has been so much fun and so rewarding. People might worry and think: will I have time? But you will!
Lisa: We are very clear with our members and companies that we are students and that school always comes first. We are all students, and Hype should be something fun!
Anything else that you want to tell your fellow students at JU?
Everyone: Apply to Hype!
Moa: If you want to work with advertising — you need experience and Hype gives you the opportunity to learn, make mistakes, and learn again from them. This is an opportunity that you should take advantage of!
Writer: Vilma Bovin
