A great marketing plan is a culmination of strategy, application of appropriate marketing tactics and brand positioning. In the backdrop of economic growth and business expansion, marketing has gained prominence as organisations want to have a market presence and find the right demographic for their services/products. Those who are interested in making a career in the field of strategic marketing domain can benefit from the right academic program and develop comprehensive strategic marketing plans with a degree.

What does Strategic marketing managers do?

A strategic marketing manager is responsible for finding and developing a customer base for a company's products. The strategic marketing manager, along with the market research team and product development manager, is responsible for designing and implementing the company's marketing plan. Typically requiring long hours and several years of experience in the field Marketing Managers have a demanding career. It also involves travelling which could range from meeting clients to scouting prospective venues for a product launch.

Here is the checklist to become a successful strategic marketing manager

Get an Educational Degree

The minimum education requirement to become a Strategic Marketing Manager is a bachelor's degree in business, marketing, communications, advertising, or other related fields. However, most companies may ask for a master's degree.

One should also consider taking part in a management-training program or continuing education program at a business college.

Acquire Experience

Getting Strategic Marketing Manager experience by taking on an internship is a great way to learn about the field and obtain some experience while still in school.

Make most of your internship by getting as much hands-on experience as you can. Sometimes, Interns are told to make copies and answer phones. In that case, they will have to volunteer for other projects and demonstrate their eagerness to learn. Apart from gaining experience, an internship is an opportunity to make important contacts and networks in the industry which can be beneficial in the future.

Look for an entry-level job in marketing

There are various types of marketing careers one could pursue as a marketing manager. It is advisable to spend a few years in an entry-level marketing job, such as Marketing Assistant, press release distribution services, Sales Representative or Advertising Assistant, to strengthen your background skills and gain the compulsory work experience required to become a Strategic Marketing Manager. Once you garner enough experience, you can put forward your views on why you deserve to be promoted to a Strategic Marketing Manager by pointing out how you have contributed to the department.

Acquire the necessary skills

Strategic Marketing Managers have strong communication, sales and presentation skills. They must be creative and have the ability to manage many projects at once. Expert knowledge of current marketing trends is also necessary.

Strategic Marketing Managers must have excellent leadership skills and the ability to hire, train and motivate team members. Strong presentation and communication skills are also essential for a career in marketing. The best way to obtain marketing management skills is on-the-job training in an entry-level position.

Join professional marketing associations

By joining a professional marketing association, you can stay informed on the latest industry developments, procedures and technologies. You will also gain access to professional networking opportunities.

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With these options, aspiring marketers can stay ahead of the competition and build a thriving career.