Dear Next Gen Marketers...

A message to the next generation of marketers...

Dear Next Gen Marketers,

So you are considering or currently in school for marketing, huh? Well, a LOT has changed since I graduated from college and the pace of change is only increasing. So from one ambitious (and slightly seasoned) marketer to another, let me hit you with the unfiltered reality of what I believe the future holds for marketing aficionados like us...

What golden skill will be in demand? Problem-solving. When faced with the unknown, hit up Google. Reach out to the pros in your network, pick their brains, and exchange insights. Tap into your connections and the wealth of free content online to master the subject by the end of the week.

Direct your attention to the pipeline. If you don't know what a sales pipeline is, stop reading this and go research. You're bound to bump into a career ceiling if you are relying on solely writing content or building graphics (and that is okay if that is what you want). To elevate your trajectory, master all facets of marketing. Dive into lead flow analysis, craft forecasts, and expertly navigate the marketing funnel. It's the key to unlocking career scalability.

Social media is a trend. Stay on top of it but don't bank your job on it. It will always continue to change, so keep adapting and expand your skillset outside of just apps. There is no more to say.

Want an unshakeable marketing force? Join a marketing team rooted in core values and brand guidelines. That's the bedrock of strength. They are not just principles on paper; they breathe life into your brand, forging genuine connections with your audience. Likewise, brand guidelines are not constraints but the artistic strokes that make your brand visually distinctive, ensuring it stands out in the crowded marketplace.

If public speaking sends shivers down your spine, it's time to face that fear head-on. The world is indeed a stage, and your voice deserves to be heard. Embrace the opportunity to share your ideas, insights, and passion—each presentation is a chance to amplify your impact and leave a lasting impression on the audience.

Crafting a consistent personal brand isn't just a professional strategy; it's a lifelong commitment. From the first day on the job to your final farewell, maintaining authenticity in your personal brand ensures a legacy of trust and reliability. Bonus points are earned when that consistency seamlessly transcends the boundaries between your work and personal life, creating a cohesive (and genuine) narrative that resonates with both professional peers and personal connections alike.

Excellence often demands extra effort. Embrace the reality that hard work is the crucible for rapid learning in any role. While the mantra 'work smarter, not harder' is sage advice, the translation seems to have blurred. Focus your tireless efforts on projects that yield the greatest value, for it's in those endeavors that your hard work truly pays off.

The era of perpetual remote work from the comfort of home is unlikely to persist indefinitely. Embrace the likelihood that as you ascend the corporate ranks, remote work may translate into increased travel responsibilities. Anticipate the shift and be prepared for a journey that extends beyond the boundaries of your home office.

Lastly, remember this golden truth: it's not just okay to fail; it's essential. Embrace failure as a dynamic teacher, and even better, learn to fail fast. Each stumble is a stepping stone towards growth, innovation, and the resilience that propels you forward on your journey. Embrace the lessons, pivot swiftly, and let failure be the catalyst for your ultimate success.

All the best,

The Marketing Mom