‘Keep a learning attitude always’

Driven by a clear ambition to enter the media industry, Mihir joined the programme with a focused vision of building a career where brand strategies, consumer insights, and business decisions intersect. His dedication has now translated into success with a placement as a Media Planner & Buyer at Lyxel & Flamingo. In this interview, Mihir reflects on his preparation journey, the role of faculty mentorship, and his aspirations in the ever-evolving media landscape. Read edited excerpts:

How did you prepare for the placement process? 

The preparation was never just about mugging up theory. My role demands a mix you need to understand digital marketing, media planning, brand strategy, and consumer behaviour all at once. On top of that, you need to be comfortable with numbers and be able to communicate your thinking clearly. I focused on building that combination concept first, then tools Excel, Meta Ads, Google Ads, programmatic platforms. And communication that only comes with practice. The more you talk about what you know, the sharper it gets.

How did Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication and faculty members help you to prepare for the placement rounds?

When I walked into AIMC, I knew the basics. When I walked out, I understood the why behind everything. That shift from knowing things to understanding them happened because of the faculty here.

Every teacher brought something different to the table. The guest faculty, especially their industry knowledge, was something you just can’t get from a textbook. And our core teachers They’re genuinely 360 degree professionals. The mock interviews they ran were particularly useful; they helped me spot gaps I didn’t even know I had and fix them before it mattered.

What kind of skills do you think are important to crack the placement with ease? 

Keep a learning attitude always. Beyond that, know your consumer, get comfortable with data  that’s where the industry is heading, understand how AI can make you more efficient, and build a solid base in digital marketing and media planning. The candidates who stand out aren’t the ones who know the most, they’re the ones who can apply what they know.

Tips for those who are preparing for placement

Start early and stay curious. Don’t wait for placement season to begin preparing by then, the people who’ve been paying attention all year already have the edge. Read industry news, follow what brands are doing, have opinions about campaigns. And when you walk into that room remember the interview is just a conversation.Have it like one.

How did you stay motivated and consistent during the placement season?  

Honestly I didn’t rely on motivation alone I relied on preparation. When you’ve put in the effort through the year, confidence comes naturally. You’re not hoping things go well; you just know your ground. My mindset was simple: if I don’t get this, someone else who deserves it more will. That kind of detachment kept me calm. And calm always performs better than anxiety.

What are your future aspirations

In the short term, I absorb everything. We’re in a moment where the marketing world is changing faster than ever, and I want to be someone who’s ahead of it, not catching up. Understanding how to reach the right audience, at the right moment, with the right message that’s what excites me. Long term, I want to build something of my own in this space. But first, the foundation.