Marketing is one of the most diverse and fastest-growing professions in the UK and there are many routes to a career in marketing. You’ll be rewarded with competitive salaries, excellent career prospects and a chance to use a wide range of skills every day in a variety of sectors. There are no set qualifications to work in marketing and candidates join from a range of backgrounds. Whether you’re just starting out or in search of your next big challenge, Spotlight Recruitment can help you to find your next role.
Academic routes into marketing
The academic route into marketing is perhaps the most traditional. There are a number of universities and colleges offering a Higher National Diploma (HND) or Degree in the subject. These courses can last up to four years and give a comprehensive introduction to the industry and access to graduate recruitment schemes. Joining a graduate recruitment scheme doesn’t necessarily require a degree in marketing; some employers will accept entrants from any degree discipline, particularly if it is related to the industry that they work with. Industrial companies, for instance, may prefer science-based degrees for their marketing positions.
Internships and work experience also offer valuable insight into the industry, and most degrees will include an opportunity to incorporate these.
On-the-job training
Many professionals join marketing agencies from related career fields, such as sales and advertising. They bring with them a wealth of industry knowledge and experience and often transition smoothly into their new role. However, you may find that the attainment of professional qualifications will mean the difference between staying in your existing role for some time and climbing the proverbial career ladder.
Accredited professional qualifications from reputable organisations such as CIM are necessary for those in higher positions within the industry. They are usually attained alongside your regular work and may be funded by your employer. The CIM has four levels of qualification which are determined by your academic qualifications and experience, along with courses operated by the Institute of Direct Marketing (IDM), The Institute of Export and the Communication Advertising and Marketing Education Foundation (CAM).
Focus on skills rather than qualifications
If you don’t have any related qualifications or work experience, all is not lost. Employers in marketing are often looking for candidates with key skills and competencies, especially for entry-level positions. They’re on the lookout for people who are:
• Creative and flexible
• Keen to learn and tech-savvy
• Excellent communicators
• Possess excellent attention to detail
• Ambitious and driven
Does this sound like you? Then marketing might be right up your alley. Keeping up-to-date with industry developments through webinars or conferences is also a good way to demonstrate your skills.
Getting started in marketing
Spotlight works across all sectors, recruiting marketing, digital and communications talent for our clients. We work closely with our candidates and listen to what you are looking for in your next role. It is all about finding you the perfect marketing job.