If you’re looking for your first job in the marketing field, you may feel overwhelmed. After all, the marketing industry is competitive, and it can be difficult to stand out. Working with a recruiter, you can give yourself a fighting chance and land that first entry-level marketing job. Let’s break down what steps to take to maximize your chances!
Step 1: Research Companies
Before you even think about applying for jobs, take some time to research different companies in the industry and see which ones align with your values or interests. This will help you narrow down the list of potential employers and focus on crafting tailored applications for each one. It is also important to understand what kind of roles these companies offer to decide which position would be best suited for your skillset. Some common entry-level marketing jobs include: communications specialist, social media coordinator, marketing assistant, and account coordinator.
If you want to land the best marketing job available, researching is key. It’s so important to make sure you know what each company offers and how they differ in terms of benefits, salary range, and work environment. Start by browsing through industry news sources, official websites, social media accounts, and job postings. Then take the time to read reviews from employees and customers that provide insight into the culture of each organization.
If you have a clear image of what you’re looking for before beginning your search, you can save valuable time when narrowing down your options and deciding which employers are the best fit for you. This will also help recruiters connect you with companies you either are interested in or may not have heard of that align with your values and priorities.
Step 2: Build Your Network
Networking is essential when it comes to finding work in any field, but especially in marketing because it is a communications-based industry. Connecting with people who already have experience in the field can open up opportunities that may not have been available before you create relationships. Try attending events such as conferences or seminars where marketers congregate, or join online forums through LinkedIn and Reddit to discuss topics related to marketing. The more connections you make, the better chance you have of finding out about available jobs before they get posted publicly.
The key to maximizing your job search potential is to leverage your existing connections. It may sound intimidating, but with a bit of effort and some strategy, you can quickly create the network you need to land that entry-level position of your dreams. Start by reaching out to those who work in the industry: friends of friends, former colleagues, and classmates — anyone whose knowledge might help you reach your goal.
Completing an internship in the marketing field can be a great way to set yourself up for success in the job market. It is an exciting opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience that builds your resume and provides you with key skills that are essential for any entry-level marketing job. Internships also provide an invaluable network of contacts who may be able to provide you with advice and potentially give you the edge when it comes finding employment.
Additionally, attend networking events in your local business community as well as online events for recruiters and hiring managers. Developing relationships with key people in the field may open up doors for opportunities that are not available through traditional job searches. Once you start your journey, don’t forget to continue building your connections and take advantage of every chance to put yourself out there. You’ll be glad you did!
Step 3: Create an Impressive Resume
Your resume should reflect your experience, education, and achievements in order to stand out from other candidates who are applying for the same role as you are. Make sure that your resume is well-written and professional; if necessary, hire a professional resume writer who can advise on how best to present yourself on paper. Also consider creating an online portfolio that showcases your work so prospective employers can get a better sense of what kind of marketer you are without having to meet with you in person first.
A few things to DO in your resume:
- Keep it brief: An effective marketer is a great communicator. Your resume should showcase how you clearly and effectively correspond.
- Pay attention: Your writing should be flawless in a marketing resume. Make sure you double check for grammar and inaccuracies.
- Let your personality shine through: Marketing roles often overlap with creativity. Your resume should reflect how you can be imaginative while also being professional.
Step 4: Sharpen Your Interview Skills
No matter how impressive your resume looks on paper, if you don’t know how to present yourself during an interview then it won’t do much good. Take some time beforehand to practice common interview questions so that when the time comes, you won’t be caught off guard by anything they throw at you during the meeting itself. And be sure to relate your experience to the job in thoughtful ways to show how you can adapt to new situations using skills you already possess. Most importantly, be yourself! An employer wants someone who has confidence in their own abilities and isn’t afraid to show it off during an interview; this could be the difference between getting hired or not.
Step 5: Follow Up
It’s always polite —and smart—to follow up after an interview either by email or phone call. Thank the hiring manager for their time and express interest in moving forward with the application process (if applicable). This shows initiative and demonstrates that taking the lead is something that comes naturally for you as a marketer. This is a quality most employers look for. Plus, it gives them one last reminder of why they should choose YOU over any other applicant vying for the position.
Applying for an entry-level marketing job doesn’t have to feel like a daunting task. It’s all about preparation. If done correctly, landing a job that kicks off an impressive marketing career is within reach, as long as you keep these five tips in mind. If you need a little help, contact our team of recruiters. Good luck, and happy hunting!