How To Become A Marketing Manager

Marketing managers perform a number of crucial tasks for an organization. They are involved in planning, directing, and coordinating marketing policies and programs. They determine demand for products and services provided by the firm and its competitors, and develop various strategies to target potential customers and retain present ones. Market share, company profit, and customer satisfaction are important to marketing managers. They also administer product development and keep an eye on trends that signal the need for new products and services.

Marketing Manager Job Description
Marketing managers generally need to perform the following tasks:

• Monitor and analyze marketing trends
• Research competitor's products and strategies
• Identify ways to improve existing products and increase profitability
• Recognize target market and develop strategies
• Prepare and manage marketing plans and budgets
• Manage production and promotional material
• Communicate with internal departments such as sales and distribution
• Support, motivate, and manage a marketing team
• Travel to meetings, sales conferences, and trade shows
• Make reports to monitor results
• Present findings and recommendations to senior managers and directors

How to Become a Marketing Manager

Education and Experience
The qualifications required to become a marketing manager usually includes a marketing bachelor's degree or a master's degree in business administration, with a concentration in marketing. A master's degree is much more preferable as many marketing positions require an advanced degree. However, marketing education is not the only factor that will help an individual become a marketing manager. Employers seek candidates with extensive experience in marketing, advertising, branding, and sales. Certain skills also hold immense value and employers generally look for candidates who have excellent communication skills and a creative flair.

Skills and Personality Traits
The following are some of the must-have skills for marketing managers:

• Strong communication, sales, and presentation skills
• Creativity and goal orientation
• Flexibility and the ability to perform well under pressure situations
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to take initiative and be proactive
• Expert knowledge of marketing trends and multimedia platforms
• Strong leadership skills and ability to train and motivate their team
• Budgeting and computer skills

Online Education
Online education is also an option for individuals looking to acquire marketing education in a flexible and convenient way. Online programs are ideal for working professionals and individuals who cannot attend on-campus classes due to their work or other responsibilities. The courses offered in the marketing online programs generally include accounting, economics, marketing theory and practice, marketing research, integrated marketing communications, consumer behavior, brand management, and advertising theory.

Career Outlook and Salary
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of marketing managers is likely to increase by 14 percent between 2010 to 2020, which is as fast as the average for all occupations. Advertising, promotions, and marketing will be essential for an organization as they will be looking to maintain or grow their market share. BLS states that the median annual salary for marketing managers in May 2012 was around $119,000.