Question

Topic: Career/Training

What Is The Path For A Successful Marketing Career?

Posted by Anonymous on 1/27/2004 at 3:17 PM ET 30 Points
I work for a small construction/engineering company in Long Island City, NY. I was given the position of an entry-level "MarCom Manager" 16 months ago (I'm the first person to ever have the position, and they weren't looking for someone with years of experience). Basically, I'm responsible for content creation and production of a quarterly newsletter, project case studies, website development, collateral development, etc. this was a new position created to help the sales staff. I don't have a direct background in marketing, I have a BS in communications which helps, but basically been learning as I go. I've developed a great deal of interest in pursuing a long term career in marketing. Unfortunately this position is not really preparing me in the major areas of marketing (branding, strategy, etc) that would be necessary to be a success in the industry. what resources are available for someone like me. Would I have to go for an MBA? One of the major problems is that resources like the AMA's workshops are out of the question, unless I'm willing to pay for them myself(Private Company Politics). Are there certain certifications I should go for?
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RESPONSES

  • Posted by Blaine Wilkerson on 1/27/2004 at 10:33 PM Accepted
    Woody,

    Allen has posted very sound advice. If you wish to pursue upper level positions, an MBA is a very good "Gold Star" on your resume.

    To add to Allen's copy.....

    You really do need to decide what type of marketing and what type of positions you wish to pursue. This can make all the difference in your strategy. Allen already gave you an example of the benefits of an MBA...but let's say you don't want to do that right now. What do you do?

    First of all, I would STAY in your current employ since they have given you a chance to not only learn the ropes, but use their company as an entry level basis for your marketing future. Even though the newsletter may not be intellectually rewarding right now, you are gaining EXPERIENCE!

    If the newsletter is "cake" to you, then I assume you have room in your life (and energy) to educate yourself. Your inquiry about AMA workshops is indicative of your willingness to devote time to training.

    Where do you start? RIGHT HERE! This website has a plethora of information from basic "101" to complicated metrics analysis. Read, Read, Read!!!! You will be amazed at how much you can find out in just a few short hours of online tutorial, articles, etc. This site will keep you tied up for days if not weeks! You can also check out marketing firm sites to see how they present themselves, etc.

    Secondly, start interacting in the forum. You asked a question...now try answering one. Marketing is not all about degrees and such. Much of it is creativity and intuition. If you feel like you have a good answer to a posted question, give it a shot! Interacting with other marketers is another valuable "free" resource.

    Another suggestion, which is quite a big step but worth a shot, is to start your own marketing firm. Work it online from home after work. Start slow. Ask questions. As you go through the phases of developing your business, you will be "forced" to inquire about certain topics, thereby not only enhancing your education, but your experience as well! In other words, you can't learn how to swim until you get in the water! I'm not saying you can't have "floaties", but I believe hands on experience within your current job along with self education as described above will help you decide if you really need or want to devote the time and money to obtain an MBA.

    Good luck with your endeavors!



  • Posted by ReadCopy on 1/28/2004 at 8:35 AM Accepted
    All great advice ... one last piece that I tell everyone is to start a "Glory File", keep an example of work you are proud of, keep anything (letter, email etc) where people have said what a great job you have done.

    Look through this every so often for career inspiration and to use as an aide memoir when you finally get an interview or chase of another job.

    The very best of luck, its a GREAT career :-)
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