Bodhisatwa Dasgupta, Founder and Intern at The Voice Company and Resident Trainer at Copywriting With Bo, has spent over two decades in the advertising industry. His journey is a testament to the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career driven by creativity and passion rather than monetary gain alone. In a recent LinkedIn post, Bodhisatwa Dasgupta shared a candid reflection on his career, particularly highlighting the financial realities of working in advertising.
Bodhisatwa Dasgupta started his post by revealing his salary after five years of working: INR 41,220. This figure might seem surprising, especially considering his tenure at a prestigious agency like Ogilvy. He explained that while this salary was modest, it was a common reality for many in the advertising industry. Compared to other sectors, advertising often pays less, especially in the early years. Bodhisatwa Dasgupta’s openness about his earnings serves as a stark reminder of the financial challenges that can accompany a career in creative fields.
In his post, Bodhisatwa Dasgupta recounted a conversation with a member of his May cohort at Copywriting With Bo. The individual expressed concerns about the viability of a career in advertising given its relatively low pay. This prompted Bodhisatwa Dasgupta to reflect on the motivations behind choosing this career path. He acknowledged that advertising might not be the best choice for those solely driven by financial gain. However, for those passionate about creativity and the art of persuasion, advertising offers unique and fulfilling opportunities.
Bodhisatwa Dasgupta emphasized that while money is important, it should not be the only motivator for pursuing a career in advertising. He pointed out that success in this field requires a genuine love for creativity and the ability to see the world from unique perspectives. Bodhisatwa Dasgupta’s own career is a testament to this philosophy. Despite the financial challenges, he has spent 20 years in the industry and continues to find joy and fulfillment in his work.
Throughout his career, Bodhisatwa Dasgupta has witnessed the highs and lows of the advertising industry. He noted that while senior positions, such as that of a National Creative Director (NCD), can command impressive salaries, such roles are relatively rare. This reality underscores the competitive nature of the industry and the importance of strategic career moves. However, Bodhisatwa Dasgupta also highlighted the potential for freelancers to earn significant sums, though this path comes with its own uncertainties and requires excellent financial planning.
One of the key messages from Bodhisatwa Dasgupta’s post is the importance of finding balance. He acknowledged that financial stability is crucial, especially for those with significant responsibilities, such as supporting family members. Yet, he also stressed the value of doing work that one loves. For Bodhisatwa Dasgupta, advertising is not just a job but a passion that allows him to wake up every morning excited about what he might create.
Bodhisatwa Dasgupta’s journey is also marked by his role as a mentor and educator. Through Copywriting With Bo, he shares his extensive knowledge and experience with aspiring copywriters. His honest and down-to-earth approach to teaching provides valuable insights into the realities of the industry. By sharing his own experiences, Bodhisatwa Dasgupta helps his students navigate the challenges of a career in advertising and encourages them to pursue their creative passions.
In addition to his professional achievements, Bodhisatwa Dasgupta’s post also reveals his sense of humor and humility. He light-heartedly mentioned his culinary skills, joking that he makes incredible prawns, and concluded with a playful reminder to drink more water. This personal touch adds warmth to his narrative and makes his advice more relatable.
Bodhisatwa Dasgupta’s reflections offer valuable lessons for anyone considering a career in advertising or any creative field. His honesty about the financial challenges and his emphasis on passion and creativity provide a balanced perspective on what it takes to succeed in this industry. For Bodhisatwa Dasgupta, the rewards of a fulfilling career go beyond monetary compensation. They lie in the joy of creation and the satisfaction of doing what one loves.
Bodhisatwa Dasgupta’s journey through the world of advertising is inspiring for its resilience and passion. As the Founder and Intern at The Voice Company and Resident Trainer at Copywriting With Bo, he continues to influence and inspire the next generation of creatives. His story is a reminder that while financial considerations are important, they should not overshadow the pursuit of one’s passions. For Bodhisatwa Dasgupta, advertising is not just a profession but a calling that he remains dedicated to, despite the challenges along the way. His journey is a testament to the enduring power of creativity and the importance of staying true to one’s passions.
