Marketing managers are one of the most sought-after professions in the current job market. Marketing managers have the task of improving a company's overall marketing strategy, including social media, branding, and advertising. Even if you're not a University graduate, you can still prepare yourself for a career as a marketing manager. This blog shares some insider tips to guide you on a career to become a successful marketing manager.
What Does A Marketing Manager Do?
Every marketing manager has an entirely different set of responsibilities and skills. Some of the duties that a marketing manager include:
Website Development
Content Creation
Copywriting
Blogging
Brand Development
Community Building
Social Media
Online Advertising
Email Marketing
SEO Strategy
Marketing Strategy
Education, like any job, is always an essential criterion in climbing the career ladder. So, make sure you have the proper qualifications for the position. The qualification doesn't just have to be a University degree. Instead, it can be a certificate gained from industry providers such as Google, Facebook, HubSpot etc. One of my favourite places to improve education in marketing is LinkedIn Learning.
I say that; however, I am a big advocate of gaining a higher education degree. Especially whilst starting in the marketing industry, it helps to put theory to practice. Remember, the better in the know of advancing marketing practices the applicant, the better chance of getting hired.
Marketing managers bring a broad range of skills to a company. A marketing manager focuses on finding and spearheading strategies to increase company growth. They also help the sales team identify the best methods for reaching out to customers about its products. Marketing managers also organise marketing plans and strategise sales activities to increase sales. Some of the primary skills needed to succeed as a marketing manager include:
Creative Design
IT Skilled
Social Media
Website Design
Data Analytics
Copywriting
Ecommerce
Content Strategy
Likewise, some of the traits a marketing manager needs include:
Creativity
Analytical
Driven
Fast-Learner
Innovative
People Person
Empathetic
Adaptability
Problem-Solver
Attention To Detail
Leadership
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How To Get Started
When looking for a career in marketing management, consider what field, industry or role you're interested in pursuing. Although many marketing managers do similar tasks, they all have a specific role within the organisation. You have to know your strengths and work to build up your career. First of all, you must constantly improve yourself to reach your goals and stand a more substantial chance of getting noticed by future employers.
Here are two tips to help you build a long-term marketing career:
1. Surround Yourself With Professionals
Join a networking or marketing organisation, the Chamber of Commerce or a professional association such as the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM). Joining these networks are a great way to learn from others, find support and understand how the industry works and what it takes to become successful in your career.
2. In A World Full Of Competition, Stand Out
Most places companies now require applicants to send a resume and cover letter. So, it's time to start preparing! Build a portfolio. I cannot tell you how much it's helped me to gain jobs. If you don't have any examples to add, get some! Advertise your services on freelance sites such as Fiverr, Upwork or Bark. Alternatively, help out your friends, get in touch with people on social media or create case studies for fun. Another option is to start building a personal brand and use that in your portfolio.
Remember always to prepare your CV unique to the role. To stand out in the applicant pool, you need to be up-to-date on your skills. Research your potential employer, organisation and evaluate their marketing activities. Adapt your style, portfolio or CV to theirs. To emphasise, spend some time researching the job's company, the head manager, and the specific position you could be filling. These can also help you decide whether or not it's an excellent time to apply for a job or this particular position.
The Road Ahead
Though marketing managers have an understandably high profile, there is no shortage of hiring challenges that potential candidates need to prepare for in advance. Candidates must have excellent communication skills to manage company executives effectively. Even if you are not entirely familiar with the company's products and services, you can ensure that you do the necessary research on their competitors. Instead of generic résumé-style marketing material, you can always do more than your research. Always be genuine in your approach to network with potential clients and promote your skills and capabilities. There are always networking events, such as networking mixers, which you can attend to build your networks.
Many people feel like they lack the skills and talents to become successful, and most marketing managers say the same thing. They often need to learn new skills to learn better ways of working in their jobs. Something that helps me is to map out all the areas and channels in a role and write down my strengths and weaknesses in that field. I will then devise a Continuous Personal Development (CPD) plan with a list of courses or support that will help me to improve my knowledge around the topic. Then once I create the list, I will identify key areas I want to improve short term and long term.
In the workplace itself, you can do the same for the business. You can plan your marketing strategies based on the needs of your business, assessing the strength and weaknesses in marketing. In addition, learn how to be innovative and find new avenues to explore.
The End Of This Blog, But The Start For You
Becoming a successful marketer is no easy task, but there are various steps that you can take to prepare yourself for the job ahead. One of the most important steps is to understand your strengths, weaknesses, and interests. Defining these areas can help you discover which skills you need to improve to succeed in your marketing management career. More importantly, establishing career goals will keep you on track. There are numerous channels that you can gain valuable skills that will set you apart from other professionals. It's essential to remain aware of your strengths and areas to improve upon to ensure that you're getting the most out of your job. By doing so, you'll help build a portfolio, CV or experience to stand out amongst your peers and competitors.
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Thanks for reading,
Jack Willoughby