What A Marketing Specialist At GoGather Wishes They Knew Before Entering Marketing
Madison, a Marketing Specialist, emphasizes the crucial role of networking in securing a marketing position, stating that "networking is key," as illustrated by their own experience landing a job through an MBA connection. The interviewee also reveals a valuable lesson learned: marketing demands more than creativity, encompassing "research analysis, project management, and collaborating with other departments," and that practical, on-the-job learning surpasses theoretical knowledge.
Networking, Job Search Strategies, Marketing Realities, Project Management, Collaboration
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Madison Shepherd
Marketing Specialist
GoGather
Cal Poly SLO
MBA- Cal Poly SLO
Business Management & Admin, Marketing
Advertising, Communications & Marketing
Communication and Marketing
Scholarship Recipient, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Greek Life Member
Video Highlights
1. Networking is crucial for finding marketing jobs; applying online isn't always enough.
2. Marketing involves more than just creativity; it includes research, analysis, project management, and collaboration.
3. Practical, on-the-job learning is invaluable and surpasses what's learned in school alone.
Transcript
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone had told you before you entered the industry?
Networking is key, especially when finding jobs. I applied after college to about 80 jobs on LinkedIn, and the one I got was through a connection I made from my MBA program. They were hiring a marketing specialist, and I got that position.
It's definitely tough to blindly apply everywhere, though not impossible. So, the more people you know, the better. Making those connections in college, at clubs, or with professors is especially important when trying to get a job in marketing, as those can be really competitive.
I also wish someone had told me that marketing is not all creative. Many people enter the industry thinking it's all about creativity and coming up with cool ideas. While that's part of it, a significant portion of the job involves research, analysis, project management, and collaborating with other departments like sales, finance, and other teams. That's really important.
Lastly, I think you learn the most about marketing and jobs not in school. I wouldn't say I necessarily learned a ton about marketing and what I'm doing in my current role from my education. However, during my first week on the job in my full-time role, I learned a lot.