What is a Marketing Manager?

A marketing manager plays an important role in an organization. Without him, an organization’s business activities would not run as usual. Customers would disappear, sales would plummet and the company would become less competitive. Here are crucial things you need to know about marketing managers

The Role of a Marketing Manager

A marketing manager is in charge of many tasks related to promotion and sales within an organization. He manages sales activities and formulates marketing policies. This involves creating the marketing budget, publishing marketing materials, implementing promotional campaigns and measuring the effectiveness of marketing communications. Other roles include analyzing potential strategic partner relationships for company marketing, facilitating new product launches and maintaining effective internal communications. In some cases, marketing managers hire and train staff members.

How to Become a Marketing Manager

You need to have a bachelor’s degree to become a marketing manager. Most employers in the United States prefer individuals with at least a bachelor’s degree in a field related to marketing when hiring. You can major in marketing, advertising, business administration or any other related field. A bachelor’s degree coursework will provide you with the right training in subjects such as marketing research, public relations and consumer behavior.

Apply for certification to boost your chances of getting employed quickly. You can try certification from the Sales & Marketing Executive International. It is a body that creates a worldwide credibility for those who want international recognition in sales and marketing. You may also go for a certification from the Association of Strategic Marketing or American Marketing Association.

You also need experience and some skills to become a successful marketing manager. This includes good communication skills, ability to think creatively, excellent computer knowledge, intimate understanding of traditional and emerging marketing channels, familiarity with the latest trends and great problem-solving skills.

Work Environment

Marketing managers work with various companies as part of a larger team. They play a critical role in aligning their creative direction with an organization’s strategic marketing goals. Most of them work as senior marketers, one of the highest positions in the corporate ladder. They may be in charge of brand managers copywriters, graphic designers or creative directors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 31 percent of marketing managers work in advertising agencies. About 17 percent work in managerial positions in different companies and enterprises. Others work as self-employed contractors.

Marketing Manager Salary

Marketing managers earn an average salary of $124,850 per year. The highest-paid individuals receive $175,060 while the lowest-paid get $91,520, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Job Outlook for Marketing Managers

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the employment rate for marketing managers to grow by 9 percent over the next 10 years. This growth rate is faster than the national average and represents huge prospects for those who want to enter into marketing. The job growth will occur as corporations seek to counter competition by differentiating their goods and initiating unique marketing strategies. Competition for jobs positions will also increase. Those who have experience and advanced education are expected to enjoy the best career prospects.

Related Resource: What is Product Management in Marketing?

The items discussed above show how important it is to be a marketing manager. You get to enjoy a lucrative salary and also improve your leadership skills. You only need to work harder in college, get good grades, gain experience and advance your education to qualify for a position as a marketing manager.