Marketing executive : Entry requirements

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1. Job description
2. Salary and conditions
3. Entry requirements
4. Training
5. Career development
6. Employers and vacancy …
7. Related jobs

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• Marketing officer: Sheryl

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The CIM exists to develop the marketing profession, support aspiring marketers, maintain professional standards and improve the skills of marketing practitioners, enabling them to deliver exceptional results for their organisations. It does this by providing membership, qualifications and training to marketing professionals around the world. Join The Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM).

Although this area of work is open to all graduates/Diplomates, as marketing is an increasingly competitive sector to enter, a degree/HND in the following subjects may increase your chances:

• marketing;
• communications;
• business/management.

A postgraduate qualification, such as a qualification from the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM)  may improve your chances of securing a marketing position. However, although an additional qualification may be useful, it will not guarantee a job or replace the personal qualities and experience that employers are looking for.

Gaining pre-entry relevant work experience is also very helpful, either via vacation work, work placements or shadowing. Some of the larger employers may offer students paid summer placements. Volunteering is also an effective way to gain valuable experience.

Potential candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• communication and interpersonal skills;
• analytical skills;
• the ability to use initiative;
• ability to work under pressure;
• creativity;
• drive;
• flexibility;
• numeracy;
• teamwork;
• influencing and negotiation skills;
• oral and written skills;
• business awareness;
• IT literacy.

It is helpful to read job adverts in the trade press and request vacancy details to help you get a feel for the combination of skills and industry knowledge that a marketing executive needs. Consider related posts (e.g. in sales, market research or public relations) for work experience, as employers often find the skills and experience gained in related roles transferable to marketing.

Networking can also be beneficial in helping you secure a marketing position. Your university careers service may host events giving you the opportunity to gain contacts and meet industry representatives. The Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) also run a range of industry events and workshops, helping to provide networking opportunities.

getin2marketing  is the CIM’s online marketing careers resource specifically designed for undergraduates and recent graduates. It provides industry knowledge, information and tips on marketing and related professions.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.