If you’re moving to San Francisco for a job in marketing then it’s time to update your resume.
With the continued growth of the tech industry, especially in the area, the demand for highly skilled marketing professionals in San Francisco is at an all-time high. According to the California Department of Labor, the number of marketing jobs in San Francisco more than tripled between May 2018 and April 2019. Forbes reports that the median salary for a marketing director in San Francisco is $135,000 a year.
While the demand for marketing professionals in San Francisco is high, the supply is not keeping up. That means you have the opportunity to secure your dream job in the field, but you’ll need to act fast.
Learn The Language
Learning the “secret language” of marketing is essential if you want to succeed in the field. This language is primarily made up of trade terms and phrases used throughout the marketing industry. It’s a common misconception that marketing is just “advertising.” Depending on the size and scope of the project, a marketing manager or director may be involved in all aspects of the campaign, from the preliminary analysis all the way to the final implementation.
If you’re looking to enter the field then consider applying for one of the many Marketing Specialist jobs available in San Francisco. These are entry-level positions that offer on-the-job training, and the pay is enough to cover living expenses in one of the most expensive cities in the country.
Network
With over 150,000 jobs in San Francisco alone, it’s no surprise that employment opportunities in the city are abundant. However, in order to secure your dream job you’ll need to be networked with the right people. One way to do this is through social media. Start by creating a LinkedIn profile for yourself, and then begin reaching out to other professionals in the field and engaging with them on LinkedIn.
It’s also a good idea to register with various industry websites, such as HubSpot and MailChimp, and to join groups dedicated to your niche. By doing this you will be able to access important information, tips, and strategies that may not be available on social media sites. You can also utilize CRM software, like Salesforce, to keep track of your professional relationships and to make sure that you do not forget about any of your contacts. A healthy social circle on LinkedIn with a high degree of engagement will also make you seem more attractive to potential employers, hence the importance of networking.
Attend Conferences
Attending industry conferences is another great way to learn the “language” of marketing, as well as network with other professionals in the field. Conferences allow you to learn from experts in the field as well as establish contacts that may be able to assist you in your job search. Conferences also provide a great platform to find employment. If you’re looking for a conference to attend then consider applying for the following:
- The American Marketing Association (AMA)
- The Marketing Festival (TMM)
- The Next Big Thing Conference
- The Global Conference on Marketing & Advertising
- The Digital Marketing Summit
- The Job-Seekers Conference
- The International Bazaar Marketing Conference
- The Direct Marketing Association (DMA)
- The Association of Marketing and Advertising Agencies (4A’s)
- The Advertising Federation of America (4A’s)
- The American Advertising Federation (AAF)
- The American Advertising Federation International (4A’s)
- The American Advertising Federation International Conference (AAFIC)
- The American Advertising Federation Lake Oswego (AAF Lake Oswego)
- The American Advertising Federation Long Beach (AAF Long Beach)
The American Advertising Federation, the DMA, and the AMA all offer accredited conferences that you can attend for free. The American Advertising Federation also offers regional conferences that you can attend for a discounted rate.
If you’re looking for a specific niche conference then use search terms like “marketing director conference” or “marketing specialist conference” to find the best fit.
Take A Class
If you’re looking for an easy way to learn the language of marketing and gain some extra qualifications then consider taking a marketing course. These courses typically last for a few weeks, and you will be required to complete a substantial amount of reading, followed by a final project that may require some research.
Before you begin your job search it’s a good idea to research the best courses in your area. There are many options when it comes to marketing courses, from beginner to advanced, and at all levels you’ll encounter the terminology and concepts used in the industry. When choosing which marketing course to take make sure to consider the amount of material covered as well as the level of specialization.
If you’re looking for a flexible schedule then consider studying online via a reputable and accredited university. Additionally, many courses offer continuing education credits that can be used toward a professional license once you’ve graduated.
Watch Blogs and Youtube Channels
Another great way to learn the language of marketing is by watching and listening to podcasts, online videos, and blogs from industry experts. This can easily be done by going to reputable platforms like YouTube, where you can find industry-specific and general training videos, and podcast directories, like LibriVox and Spotify, where you can listen to interviews with experts in the field. Blogs are also a great place to read about the industry and follow the “thinking” of prominent marketing professionals. This type of content can help you understand the “big picture” and provide you with valuable tips and strategies that may not be covered in your formal education.
Build A Resume
If you’re looking for a simple way to make sure that you stand out from the competition then build a resume. A resume is a concise document that provides employers with all the essential information they need to decide whether or not to interview you for a specific job. Additionally, a well-designed resume can be an excellent tool for highlighting key skills, achievements, and relevant work experience.
A resume is typically composed of several short-to-mid-length sentences that briefly describe your educational background, previous work experience, and skills. For example, if you’re applying for a marketing job and have a Bachelors in Business Administration, you may want to include the following on your resume:
- Bachelors in Business Administration
- Marketing Major
- Masters in Marketing
- 15 Years Experience In Marketing
If you’re looking for a job in marketing then your resume should reflect this. Make sure to include all your degrees, as well as your professional registration if you’re registered as a professional in your field.