5 Skills Needed to Get a Job in Marketing
By Amber Cottrell
In today's economy, jobs are scarce, so it is important to have every advantage you can get. A college degree is usually a must, and a master's degree will always stand out when you go for interviews. Along with these advantages, there are certain skills that you must possess in order to be successful in the marketing field. These are the top 5 skills that jobs in the marketing field require.
1. Communication Skills (Written and Oral)
In order to do business, you have to be able to communicate with your customers. There are countless meetings and documents being drawn up when you are in the marketing field so you need to be able to communicate effectively. If you are not able to speak fluently and articulately then you will have trouble doing business with others. If you have weak writing skills, then you will not be able to record and/or process data that you need to do business.
2. Strong Computer Skills
A majority of marketing firms require strong computer skills. The basics would include Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft PowerPoint. Many firms also use software specific to their company or corporation. A strong background in computers is always helpful, and having the ability to learn new programs quickly and use them efficiently is a must. There is always new technology and software coming out, so employees need to be able to change with the market, and keep up on current software programs as they come out.
3. Ability to Commit Time
In this field there may be many opportunities to travel to do business. If you are open to travel and have the time to give to the job, then you will move up quickly. Along with this, many companies have several locations, so it helps to be able to relocate yourself for your job. Some marketing jobs may be commission based, so this may require extra time on your part to reach your desired pay amount. This job field is not a 40 hours a week job, extra time is needed if you want to succeed.
4. Personal/Relationship Skills
There will always be meetings, luncheons, and interactions with your customers in this field. The main focus of marketing is to find a way to create customer interest in your product or service, so you need to be able to sell yourself and your company to others. If you are not able to relate to others, or get them to relate to you, then your product will not succeed in the market place. You need to be able to make connections with people, and be able to persuade them to purchase or use your product or service.
5. Multi-Tasking/Time Management Skills
Every job will require you to manage your time wisely, but with marketing there are always endless deadlines for data, campaigns, and projects. You need to be able to handle different projects at once, and be able to meet all your deadlines. If you fail to do this, it may cost your company millions of dollars in sales, extra hours of work, or even your job.
In conclusion, you need to be able to communicate with others efficiently, adapt to technological changes in the market, commit time and possibly travel, be personable and relate to people, and manage your time well. These 5 skills all put together will make you a success in the professional world.
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