For those of you just starting out in the marketing world, and more specifically the school marketing world, it can be quite a daunting view. But it really doesn’t have to be.
Marketing is one of those industries that can be so much more than what you first thought. It can be what you make it effectively.
Whether you’re joining an experienced school marketers, or you’re the only marketer the school has, these tips are sure to push you in the right direction.
#1 Your employer believes in you
First of all, let’s not forget that you were picked from what we can only assume was a big bunch (everyone wants to be school marketers!), so your new employer believes in your experience and, more importantly, in you!
#2 Be passionate!
Employers will forgive lack of experience for someone that shows a true passion for their school and their school marketers job.
#3 Keep developing
I know all too well that it can be very tempting to chase a shiny title or a large paycheck. But sometimes, this can have the opposite effect to what you thought it might. So many people ask for more money or a promotion too early on, often before they have really proven themselves. Early on, sacrifice money and titles for the space to learn.
If you aren’t developing or improving that’s the time to think about a new role.
#4 Offer value
Create value for your employer by never accepting the first offer and rarely accepting the second. If you can’t move on price, try to negotiate something extra. This isn’t being cheeky, it’s business and everyone’s doing the same!
#5 Networking is key
As you progress in your school marketers career, a network is really important. I don’t just mean loads of connections on LinkedIn, take the time to speak to people, learn and show a willingness to listen.
Your contacts will help you in future career moves, but more importantly, a network of relevant people you can trust and know will do a good job, is priceless as you move onwards and upwards in your career.
#6 Never stop learning
Never refuse opportunities to develop, even if you feel it is outside your immediate discipline, always learn.
It could be colleagues in the HR department that help you understand how people behave. It could even be as simple as the receptionist who has a different view of the world to you, which helps you have a different outlook.
#7 Learn about your school
The textbook definition of marketing effectively focuses on identifying customer needs and responding to that need with what they want.
So take the time to learn about the school you are marketing. Go above and be the most informed person you can be. Ask the stupid questions, that no one else will ask. Really learn what makes your audience tick and understand what is relevant to them.
#8 Be results-driven!
It’s as simple as that, be results-driven in everything you do as a school marketer.
Final thoughts
I’d love to know what else helped you out when starting your career in school marketing. So, let me know on LinkedIn or below in the comments.
Kelly – blog
