The Graduate Marketers

As one of the most dynamic, constantly changing professions, right at the forefront of business, marketing has much to offer those looking for a lasting and rewarding career. Not only is marketing an exciting career choice, it is also an increasingly popular one for graduates. Last year 17,000 students graduated with marketing-related degrees, and a recent study by the Marketing and Sales Standard Setting Body (MSSSB) found 580,000 people in the UK employed in marketing roles. Aspiring marketers can work in a host of different industries, including the public sector and not-for-profit sectors. Most entry-level marketing roles are varied, touching on lots of different projects so you get to learn about the many aspects of marketing. You may well be involved in market research, competitor analysis, internal and external communications campaigns, basic PR activities, or helping to organise events. With such a wide range of roles, what key skills do employers look for? Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for marketers. If you are unable to communicate information or messages clearly with colleagues, it’s doubtful whether you will be able to create effective communications for clients or customers. Creativity and analytical skills are also vital. If you are involved in advertising campaigns you will need to demonstrate a creative flair, whilst those working in market research must show strong analytical abilities. Common to all marketers, whatever field they are in, is the need for excellent organizational and planning skills. Developing integrated campaigns or producing a comprehensive marketing strategy requires good time management skills and the ability to prioritise your workload effectively. There are also some specific and technical skills that employers look for. As digital marketing becomes more and more important as a means of communicating with and building relationships with customers, those with IT and web skills will increasingly be sought after by employers. So where do you begin and what are the minimum requirements if you want to get into marketing? Almost anyone with good common sense, reasonable interpersonal skills, and a quick mind can start a career in marketing. But for those serious about developing their career there are certain steps you can take to positively boost your career progression. Firstly, it’s important to gain as wide a marketing experience as you can. Get involved in lots of different marketing activities, and become familiar with all the various channels marketers use to communicate effectively. Secondly, make sure you get a professional qualification in marketing. It’s true to say that those with a deeper understanding of marketing will progress further and faster than those who merely muddle through. The Chartered Institute of Marketing, the world’s leading professional marketing body, offers four core qualifications – from the Introductory Certificate in Marketing for those starting out in the profession, through to the Professional Certificate in Marketing.