Marketing is a term that we constantly hear, yet many don’t know precisely what it means. When someone hears “marketing,” they may think of a television commercial or an ad they spotted on a Google search results page.
The reason that it is so hard to define marketing is that it has multiple layers. A marketing campaign doesn’t start and end with an advertisement or a post on social media.
Many marketers are involved in creating and monitoring a marketing effort. Some of the most effective marketing strategies today happen without people noticing them, and this is all thanks to the marketers working behind the scenes.
Because marketing is such a prevalent industry today, many want to join the field. The good news is that there are plenty of opportunities available in marketing related to different skills, interests and levels of expertise.
Learn about marketing and the various career options available below.
Marketing Defined
Marketing is any process related to promoting or selling products and services. This would include:
- Market research
- Product development
- Advertising
- Selling
- Distribution
- Delivery
The overall goal of marketing is to gain the attention and interest of target audiences. Marketers accomplish this in a variety of ways, including:
- Eye-catching packaging
- Advertisements (commercials, banner ads, billboards, etc.)
- Event sponsorships
- Partnerships
Marketing vs. Advertising
Marketing helps brands show consumers how a product or service will meet their needs.
Advertising is promoting the brand, products and services so that consumers gain exposure and want to make a purchase. When advertising, companies will pay to have a message or brand placed in a specific location.
Advertising is a component of a marketing strategy, but not all marketing efforts specifically relate to advertising.
The fundamental changes that have occurred in recent years include:
- Authentic messaging
- Managing consumer experience
- Leveraging IoT technology
- Focusing on mobile-friendliness
- Engaging on social platforms
The Rise of Digital Marketing
Digital marketing refers to all marketing efforts that happen online. This encompasses many marketing strategies, including social media marketing, search engine optimization and display advertising.
Careers in Marketing
Marketing has many sub-facets, such as public relations, sales and content, so there are various career options within those areas to explore.
Advertising careers include:
- Project manager
- Media buyer
- Promotions coordinator
- Copywriter
Content careers include:
- Content writer
- Digital brand manager
- Social media coordinator
- SEO manager
Market research careers include:
- Digital marketing analyst
- Marketing manager
- Qualitative research assistant
- Insights analyst
Sales careers include:
- Account coordinator
- Marketing associate
- Sales consultant
- Business development analyst
Public relations careers include:
- Publicity director
- Media relations coordinator
- Communications assistant
- Public relations representative
There are other areas of marketing as well, such as brand marketing or eCommerce, which include more possible titles and opportunities. Depending on your interests and talents, several possible career options are open in the vast marketing field.
Is Marketing a Good Career Option for You?
Having the right skills and aptitudes to succeed in marketing is essential, as it isn’t the perfect field for everyone. Some of those include:
- Flexibility
- Communication skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Creativity
- Curiosity
- Leadership skills
- Attention to detail
- Critical thinking
Anyone serious about a career in marketing would benefit from a bachelor’s degree. Degrees in marketing, business, psychology and other related fields are beneficial to helping a new professional excel quickly.