Career Growth Strategies for Marketing Professionals

I went from coordinator to CSO in 5 years. It has been crazy. Here’s my “Top 7” for an explosive career in marketing 🚀 TL;DR 1. Passion 2. Fill gaps, don’t just fulfill orders 3. Connect the dots 4. Meetings = Classes 5. Apply Feedback 6. Rabbit Hole 7. Strength = Weakness 1. Passion 🍍 This is the most obvious and the most crucial. If you are going to put in the hard work to grow your career, you have to want it. You have to have an innate motivation and you have to go all in. 2. Fill gaps, don’t just fulfill orders. 🥧 Do things because they need to get done, and try to get to them before you are asked. Pick up the stuff that is left in the gray area between roles. And don't be afraid to challenge priorities for the betterment of a business (be a thought leader). 3. Connect the dots. ⚫⚫⚫ Don’t just do things. Always try to figure out why you are doing them. Understanding how your role impacts the bigger picture is the first step to a promotion. 4. Meetings are career development classes 🏫 As a coordinator you are usually sitting in on meetings while “bigger” people go back and forth. Make sure you are listening and picking up on patterns. Use what they are talking about to help you understand your role, the company as a whole, and the goals of the organization. Also, learn from how they conduct meetings. Use this when you are called on to speak, present, or lead a meeting. 5. Apply Feedback 🔏 No one starts out knowing everything. We all get feedback, and it is easy to get upset or ignore it. Don’t. Feedback is free help to get closer to the next level. Apply it as soon as possible so it sticks. 6. Send yourself down the rabbit hole. 🐰 Leave no stone unturned. This applies to your work, the business as a whole, testing creative, client strategy, training, etc. Having a deeper understanding of how things work will make you stand out. 7. Don’t let your strength be your downfall. 😴 If you are doing all this, you are probably super ambitious and motivated. That’s great. But it can also lead to burnout REALLY quickly. Make sure you are carving out time to disconnect and recharge. This may feel like this goes against trying to grow your career, but it is actually part of it. People can tell when you are burned out, and they will be hesitant to give you more responsibility. These are the 7 things that have had a HUGE impact on my career growth- what would you add? Let me know below!

🚀 Career Acceleration Insights By age 35, I had climbed the corporate ladder and doubled my salary in less than 5 years. The journey was filled with invaluable lessons, but there's one piece of advice that outshines the rest, crucial for anyone looking to advance their career, especially in the dynamic field of technology and marketing. ✅ Here's the golden nugget of advice: Identify and Focus on Key Business Metrics: The secret lies in pinpointing the metric that is most valuable to the business. Once identified, channel your efforts to move this metric significantly. This approach transcends beyond mere numbers; it's about aligning your contributions with the company's core objectives. ✅ What to Avoid: - Don't let workplace politics distract you. - The size of your team or the scope of your responsibilities should not be your primary concern. - Steer clear from getting entangled in unnecessary workplace drama. ✅ What to Embrace: Be relentless in your focus on the crucial business metric, whether it's related to revenue, growth, or any other key area. 💡Demonstrate how your work directly contributes to moving this metric forward. Make it the centerpiece of your discussions and reports. This strategy is particularly potent for those early in their careers or operating within growth-oriented roles. It's not just about working hard but working smart—targeting your efforts where they'll make the most tangible impact. Leverage this approach, and watch as doors open and opportunities unfold in ways you might never have imagined. #CareerAdvice #BusinessGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment #TechIndustry #thejessemercado

Aspiring Marketers, If you want to stand out, it’s crucial to connect your marketing efforts back to tangible business outcomes. (Revenue generated, profit margin, customer growth, ROI, market share, etc.) I review many resumes that either: 1. Show no measurable impact. 2. Present vague results without outcomes, such as: - Reduced CPA by X% - Drove X views for a campaign - Created X # of campaigns For example, saying “I reduced CPA by 50%” without any context has no value. Did the business suffer at the expense of this reduction? Perhaps it improved profitability at the expense of growth? Without context, it isn’t a meaningful achievement. Tie it back to business outcomes. Instead of saying you “created 100 campaigns,” illustrate the value those campaigns brought to the company. “Created 100 campaigns that increased new customer growth by 150% y/y and increased customer retention 2x” is much more powerful. Move beyond just tactics. Showcase your strategy and business outcomes. — The purpose of marketing is to attract and retain customers, which drives revenue growth, enhances brand loyalty, and ensures long-term business sustainability. Even at the entry or mid-level, your role is not just to optimize campaigns but to drive significant value and impact for the business. So if you want to stand out, focus on outcomes, not activities. And make sure to tell your full impact story. #ResumeTips #CareerGrowth #GoogleJobs #Marketing

I want to share a valuable tip that has proven instrumental in my career growth: creating an ongoing documentation of your accolades, projects, and accomplishments. In the hustle and bustle of our professional lives, it's easy to lose track of the significant contributions we make on a daily basis. From completing projects to hitting milestones, impacting organizations, and mentoring or leading teams, each achievement deserves recognition and documentation. Why is this documentation essential? It serves as a powerful tool during performance reviews. When your boss asks what you've accomplished, having a comprehensive record at your fingertips ensures that your contributions are acknowledged and valued. It's all too common to overlook our successes amidst the daily grind and burnout. Don't let your hard work go unnoticed simply because you haven't kept track of it. Moreover, maintaining a record of your achievements is invaluable when updating your resume or preparing for interviews and promotions. It provides concrete evidence of your capabilities and highlights your impact within your organization. As someone who understands the importance of documentation firsthand, I encourage you to start or continue this practice. Your future self will thank you for it. #careeradvice #interviewtip #recruitment #careergrowth

Part-2 of career shaping strategies Welcome back, my dear fellow navigators! As we chart our course through the marketing world post-MBA, let's talk strategy and celebrate every win, no matter the size: 1. Craft Your Strategy with Heart: Every organization, like every ship, requires a unique course. When I realized I was navigating a turnaround, I looked for the quickest way to make a meaningful impact. It was about finding that one project where I could make a difference – like optimizing an underperforming campaign. It's these moments that remind us why we love what we do. 2. Celebrate Early Wins: Small victories are like the first rays of dawn after a long night. They rejuvenate the spirit and rally the team. My first win was optimizing a campaign that increased engagement significantly. We celebrated with a team lunch, and it was a beautiful reminder of what we can achieve together. It's these little moments that build the story of our success. 3. Laying the Groundwork for Change: Before diving into the deep end, it’s crucial to understand where you stand. A SWOT analysis can feel like gathering your crew for a map reading session. It's not just about identifying where the treasure is buried but also recognizing the potential storms ahead. This collaborative journey makes the adventure worth it. 4. Achieving Harmony: There's something magical about a team moving in perfect harmony towards a shared goal. I once led a mini-project to align our department's activities with the company's strategy. It was like conducting an orchestra where every note, every instrument played a crucial role. When we presented our findings, it wasn't just a discussion; it was a concert of ideas, harmonizing into a symphony of strategy. Stay tuned for more tales from the sea of marketing. My career coaching page exclusively for mid-junior marketers @ topmate.io/subhanka/ DM to exchange business/marketing priorities you are solving for and swapping industry trends. #career #careercoach #careeradvancement #mentor #coach #bettermarketingcoach #marketingcoach

I remember being so upset when I didn't get advancement opportunities at work. I quickly learned that being a "good" performer often means being overlooked when it comes to career acceleration. Good performance leaves you in the people pile with the majority of employees. The key to career acceleration is to stand out. The best way to stand out is to Exceed Expectations. I realized I had to get very clear on what exceeding expectations meant to my leader. Here are some questions I asked: 1️⃣ What needs to be true for me to exceed your expectations?  2️⃣ What did the last person in this position do very well and where did they miss the mark?  3️⃣ What would you say are my strengths? How can I grow them further? 4️⃣ What are my opportunity areas? How do you suggest I grow in these areas? By asking these questions and acting on the feedback, I started to stand out. Leaders started to notice, and I started to get offered more opportunities inside and outside of my organization. 🌟 Don't settle for being just another face in the office —aim to stand out and reach your career goals whatever they are. You got this! 💪 How are you ensuring that you exceed expectations in your workplace? Share your strategies in the comments below. 👇 #LeadershipCoaching #CareerDevelopment #ThoughtLeadership

Today, I wanted to talk about something we've all likely experienced at some point in our careers: finding ourselves in organizations where personal and professional development of the employee base aren't top priorities. There is not a single person reading this who wouldn't rather be in a company that invests in your growth, that’s not always the reality. So, how do you cultivate your own path for development when there isn’t a clear-cut one laid out for you? Here are some strategies I've found useful: 🛠 Own your own trajectory Remember, you own your career journey, no matter what happens you own each step you take. Start by identifying areas where you'd like to grow. Offer to take on new projects or responsibilities both internally and externally that align with those goals, even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone. 👥 Seek Mentorship Sometimes the best advice and guidance come from those who aren't directly involved in your daily tasks. Don't hesitate to reach out to folks you respect in your industry who can help you grow and develop. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help, I know I am always willing to help! 📚 Invest in Learning Like when you were in school your growth is both you and your organization’s responsibility. Utilize online courses, webinars, or even books to cultivate new skills. There are ton of free resources out there to support your growth and if you can afford it...many of the paid ones are worth it. 🤝 Networking Spend what time you can cultivating a strong professional network. Join industry groups like Wizards of Ops, RevOps Co-op or attend industry events, and engage with others across social to broaden your understanding and horizons. 💡 Innovation Just because a company doesn't have a development culture doesn't mean you can't drive innovation. Sometimes, new perspectives can help inspire change within the organization itself. Give yourself the space to drive the change you want to see in your org...if you dont have the space for that...find a space where you can. 🤗 Find your "Professional" Tribe While formal mentorship can be valuable, peer-to-peer support can be an incredible growth engine for you. Join IRL and digital groups of like-minded professionals who are also interested in growth and learning. 👂 Feedback Loops Not all feedback has to come from the top. Seek constructive feedback from peers and even subordinates to understand your blind spots better. Implement this feedback for continuous improvement. Remember, professional growth is something you can cultivate, irrespective of your work environment. It might be challenging, but it's not impossible. Your career trajectory is ultimately in your hands, so take control and steer it in the direction that aligns with your aspirations. Has anyone else navigated a similar situation? Would love to hear your thoughts and strategies! #CareerDevelopment #GrowthMindset #TakeControl #ProfessionalGrowth #Leadership #PersonalDevelopment

To new (and aspiring) marketers:      When someone new to marketing asks me for advice, the first thing I tell them is always the same: Be a sponge. 🧽      That’s probably the core trait that has led me from ground zero all the way to building a successful full-service agency.      What does being a sponge look like?      🕮 Read voraciously: Make some time to read books by the experts. Read plenty. And to help it sink in, read while imagining ways you can apply the insights you learn. I like reading both fiction and non-fiction. Books that free mind and imagination as well as books that help me become a better version of myself.      🤝 Work somewhere that isn’t siloed: Make sure that your work enables you to interact with people from different teams. Leverage any opportunity to learn outside of what you consider your specialization. And I may be a bit biased, but I also recommend working at a small agency. It’s how I got my start and that allowed me to venture into other departments and learn from other experts within the agency.       🗣️ Ask questions: There is truly no such thing as a stupid question, especially when you’re just getting your start. Ask acquaintances for advice. Ask a coworker about her job. Or if you’re like me, ask every printing press in San Antonio for a tour. More often than not, people will admire your initiative and be happy to share and educate.      👩🏫 Take classes: Marketing degrees are great, but they’re not a prerequisite to a marketing career. A thirst for learning is a must, though. Whether it’s a class at your local community college or a reputable online course, invest time and money into the learning environment that appeals most to you.      How are you at being a sponge? What do you find most helpful in enriching your mind in your career and in life?     #Marketing #MarketingTips #MarketingAdvice #MarketingIndustry #CareerDevelopment 

Want a promotion? It takes more than just “working hard” (though that helps). It takes strategy, visibility, and growth. Here are 9 practical tips that can actually move the needle: Think like your boss’s boss – Start aligning your work with bigger goals, not just your job description. Document your wins – Keep a running list of impact metrics and success stories. You’ll need them. Ask for more responsibility – Don’t wait for permission. Step up before the title shows up. Speak the language of business – Know how your work affects revenue, customers, efficiency, or reputation. Make yourself replaceable – Train others. Systems > heroics. Leaders create leverage. Build cross-team relationships – Promotions often come from people outside your immediate circle. Give your manager a success story – Help them justify your promotion. Make their job easier. Ask directly – “What would it take for me to get promoted this year?” is a power move, not a risky one. Act like you already have the job – Show up like a leader before you're called one. No shortcuts. No politics. Just clear moves that build trust, influence, and value. Which one do you think is most important? #CareerGrowth #PromotionTips #LeadershipDevelopment #WorkplaceSuccess #ProfessionalGrowth

Boss: "We can't afford the pay raise he wants." HR Manager: "Then we should pay for it." Boss: "What?! Why?" HR Manager replied: "If we can't afford his increase, we can't afford to advertise, interview, hire, pay and train his replacement. It costs less to keep staff than replace them. ------- But, here's the thing, waiting for a pay raise or a promotion to come your way isn't always the best strategy. If you want to reach your next level... ➡️You have to ask for it! ➡️You have to go for it! And you can't afford to wait. Here's why: 1️⃣ Opportunities are limited: The job market is highly competitive, and waiting for the perfect opportunity to come knocking at your door might mean missing out on a chance to progress. 2️⃣ Continuous growth is essential: Stagnation is the enemy of success. By proactively seeking new challenges and opportunities, you'll be constantly learning and growing, enhancing your skills and knowledge. 3️⃣ Building a strong network: The more proactive you are in seeking new opportunities, the more you'll expand your professional network. Building relationships with key industry players can open doors to exciting career advancements. 4️⃣ Confidence and self-worth: Taking charge of your career and actively pursuing your goals will boost your confidence and sense of self-worth. Knowing that you are in control of your destiny is empowering. So, don't wait for your next job, your next level. ➡️ Take the initiative, ➡️ Explore new avenues, ➡️ And be proactive in reaching your professional goals. Remember, the best opportunities Are often the ones we create for ourselves!!! #CareerGrowth #ProactiveApproach #LevelUp #ProfessionalDevelopment