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First Five Rungs

The support network for the first five years in advertising.

About First Five Rungs

We're not all pros but we've picked up a few tips and tricks along the way, sharing precious nuggets of personal knowledge to help you on the path to becoming a communications superstar.

 

The industry can be daunting, especially when you're starting out... We've done it and we survived (just!). Whether it's for the highs or lows, we're here for a yarn, a whinge and a laugh. Touch base if you want to catch up over coffee.

 

First Five Rungs is run by people who've been where you are — early-career practitioners who've navigated the same pressure, questions and uncertainty. We're here for the highs and the lows. Whether you need advice, a sounding board, or just a coffee and an honest conversation about agency life — reach out.

Connect with your local team

We have teams in Auckland and Wellington ready to meet for coffee, advice, or just a chat about navigating agency life.

Resources for your first years

From survival guides to research insights, these resources will help you navigate and thrive in your early agency years.
Newbies Booklet

Tips and advice for the first weeks and months in advertising. Download before your first day.

Download now
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Tips for Newcomers
Practical advice for managing workload, handling pressure, asking the right questions, and getting the support you need.
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FFR x TRA: Fresh Findings
Research insights on what helps newcomers succeed in NZ agencies, from TRA and FFR.

The WTF Pen

Ad-land isn't just brainstorms and beers. Working in it can be pretty complex & confusing with an onslaught of acronyms that make little to no sense. This ad language leaves most newcomers thinking... WTF?

 

Advertising has a lot of acronyms. Most of them are bewildering. The WTF Pen puts the definitions right in your hand — subtle enough for any meeting.

FFR Pen Image

Want to join the Young Leadership Group?

Keen to join The Comms Council Young Leadership Group (YLG), the team behind the First Five Rungs?

 

We have teams in both Auckland and Wellington (FFR and FFRC – First Five Rungs in the Capital). All of our members are early into their careers. We know all about the pressure and problems that those just starting out face. That's why we exist: to support and connect the industry's young people, and create a culture that helps future-proof young talent.

 

The First Five Rungs is a fantastic opportunity to develop your leadership skills and make a real difference in the industry. You'll be working with a social bunch of people from different agencies and different roles. Fair warning: it's a sizeable time commitment, so you'll need to be up for the challenge.

Submit your interest

News & updates

Stay informed with the latest from First Five Rungs – insights, events, and updates from across the industry.
FFR - Feb - Newsletter
February 2026
Meet the 2026 team, explore this year's strategy, discover upcoming events, and learn about new opportunities for early-career talent across Aotearoa.
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Thanks to our sponsor

First Five Rungs is proudly supported by LUMO.
LUMO