Professional Guide

 

Pursuing a Career in Marketing, Communications & Media

This guide serves as your roadmap to a successful career, providing the resources and knowledge needed to take proactive steps toward your future.

 
 

What is Marketing & Communication about?

THE CORPORATE WORLD (B2C)
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Within the corporate world, marketing, sales and communications are functions in almost every industry. Depending on the structure and strategy of each company, they can either be part of the same department or be independent. These functional areas play a very important role within a company's activity and performance.

What do they do?

  • Marketing and Sales: In general terms, marketing and sales focus on the promotion of products and services for a target market (Business to Consumer - B2C). One of their main purposes is to understand the company’s target customers and their behaviours in order to create, coordinate, and implement effective marketing strategies - commonly referred to as the four Ps: product, price, place, and promotion. These strategies are generally used and reinforced by a sales team that is in constant contact with potential and current clients/ customers in order to attract and retain them.
  • Communications: Normally the communications department within a company has a broader focus. Although it works hand in hand with areas like marketing, it is in charge of handling more than promotion. Communications might be in charge of internal/corporate communications, media relations, events, public image and crisis management amongst others. Their main purpose is managing all communications through a strategic plan that covers many fronts.

THE WORLD OF COMMUNICATION & MARKETING AGENCIES (B2B)
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Strategic partner for big corporations to leverage mainly on:

  • Ideation of marketing campaigns based on client's needs (offline: street and or point of sales marketing, events, media planning | online: advertising, YouTube, social media channels, influencers).
  • Execution of campaigns (internal stakeholder management, supplier partnerships as producers, budgeting and timeline control.
  • Analysis of campaign results.

Marketing, Communications or Public Relations (PR) agencies offer a series of services to companies from different industries. They normally work with marketing and communication departments by supporting their activities through services like:

  • Communication, branding and marketing strategies
  • Social media management
  • Media and public relations
  • Crisis communications

Discover the benefits of working at a marketing agency.

ROLES AND FOCUS AREAS IN MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

Within Marketing and Communications whether in a corporate scenario or in an agency, there are different focus areas you can explore and develop. In today's job market these are the main four focus areas:

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MOST COMMON TITLES AND ROLES

  • MARKETING SPECIALIST

    A Marketing Specialist is responsible for creating advertising campaigns, pricing strategies and targeting the demographic data of their target audience. They work with marketing teams at companies to achieve success through more awareness about what they offer.

    A Marketing Specialist researches competitors for ideas about improving their product or service offerings to attract more customers. Specifying a company's target audience based on previous research will help ensure that the right people see what they want when browsing their website.

    Marketing Specialists often work with the Sales Teams to plan and execute promotional campaigns.

    Source: LinkedIn Insights

  • BRAND SPECIALIST

    Brand specialists are the people who make sure that your favorite brands stay consistent in quality and appearance. They work with designers, marketers, and other brand specialists to ensure that every aspect of a company’s visual identity is on point.

    Brand specialists may also be responsible for developing new products or services based on consumer feedback or market trends. This might involve creating prototypes, testing them with consumers, and making adjustments as needed

  • MARKETING COORDINATOR

    A marketing coordinator works with management teams to improve marketing efforts by creating and managing advertising campaigns.

    A marketing coordinator develops, coordinates, and executes marketing campaigns. They collect data about target demographics and analyze market trends to improve a company's marketing efforts. Marketing coordinators track sales data and work with marketing teams to achieve marketing goals.

    Marketing coordinator jobs require a mix of technical and workplace skills. Most people who work as marketing coordinators have the ability to be creative and analytical while simultaneously seeing the "big picture." These skills help marketing coordinators execute short or long- term marketing campaigns that help companies achieve goals like increasing brand awareness or improving sales.

  • COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

    Communications Specialists handle public relations, information output, and media requests. They can also plan social media campaigns or advertising efforts for a business. Overall, they ensure a company has excellent and effective advertising whenever a campaign is in the works.

    Communications Specialists are responsible for creating communications content on behalf of an institution, whether it's writing press releases or developing blog posts and social media updates. They even keep track of analytics, so a company knows how well a campaign is doing.

    Communications Specialists represent an organization to members of the media and other relevant parties. They rely on their speaking skills, writing abilities as well as leadership qualities to reach out across different platforms such as television interviews or online blogs.

  • GRAPHIC DESIGNER

    Graphic Designers produce visual concepts to communicate ideas that inspire, inform and captivate consumers. Responsible for developing various types of creative content for advertisements, brochures, or magazines. They do this with multiple tools depending on the medium and goals of the final project.

    A good Graphic Designer must have a natural eye for design and color and design imaginative content that effectively resonates with their audience. They also have to use different marketing tools to create beautiful work according to their customers’ needs.

  • SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

    A Social Media Manager is in charge of the company’s interactions with the public through social media platforms using a unified voice. They devise and implement content strategies and collect engagement data. Social Media Managers also identify trends among customer interactions to help plan digital campaigns that build brand loyalty.

    A Social Media Manager is responsible for overseeing a company’s interactions with the public by implementing social media platforms’ content strategies. Their duties include analyzing engagement data, identifying trends in customer interactions and planning digital campaigns to build community online.

    Successful Social Media Managers know how to engage people, leverage monitoring tools for insights and align their work with a brand's goals. They also have an eye for social media trends and know how to engage the company’s followers.

  • EDITOR

    Copy Editing ensures that content will be appropriately published and follows industry standards, which often means they're involved with every step in publishing from start to finish.

    A Copy Editor has many responsibilities, including proofreading text to check for grammar, spelling and punctuation errors. They also have to fact-check content like dates and statistics to ensure all published content is accurate for their readers.

    A good Copy Editor must be highly organized since they will manage several projects at a time. They also need to be detail-oriented since they will catch small mistakes before the final content is published.

  • CONTENT MANAGER

    The Content Manager is responsible for ensuring that the organization's brand ideals and website are upheld. They must familiarize themselves with all aspects of their company, including its web presence, to create appropriate targeted creative pieces that support desired objectives and help establish an engaging strategy on how best these intentions will be achieved across different platforms.

    The Content Manager is responsible for developing a strategic plan that ensures the ongoing success of their organization's online presence. They are tasked with writing blog posts, updating existing web pages, and creating new ones based on current events or industry trends; they also maintain an editorial calendar, so deadlines don't get missed. They promote their company’s work through social media channels like Facebook pages & Twitter handles.

  • MARKETING RESEARCH ANALYST

    A Market Research Analyst provides information that will help companies make informed decisions about their products. They study consumer behavior and attitudes, looking at what people want in terms of who they are buying from, with an eye on potential sales trends.

    A Market Research Analyst is responsible for optimizing strategies to yield maximum impact on sales or marketing trends using the most recent data to inform marketing strategy.

    A good Market Research Analyst needs strong communication skills when gathering information, interpreting data, and presenting results to clients. They also need to have a knack for understanding large quantities of complex data in order to process and relate the information across different industries and markets.

HOW ARE YOU GOING TO START YOUR CAREER
In the Marketing and Communications sector, it is most probable to start your work doing an internship.

They can be:

  • 6-month internships
  • Full – time or Part – time
  • Many Remote opportunities

For more information about jobs in the Marketing and Communication sector go and reaserch the Firsthand Guides.

TOP SKILLS YOU WILL NEED IN THE MARKETING & COMMS WORLD

When working in marketing, communications, and/or media, depending on the area you will work, you will need diverse sets of skills to succeed and excel.

Skills required:

  • Content creator: creativity, portfolio of previous examples
  • Social media management i.e. Hootsuite
  • Social media analysis and reports building
  • Paid media control: understand how paid channels work i.e. Instagram, TikTok, Meta, etc. budgeting control and ROI calculation, Google Ads, SEO, SEM
  • Time management: proposing a calendar, ensure all teams meet deadline
  • Talent management: briefings to influencers and manage 360 influencer needs
  • Hard skills: Social Media (performance platforms, analytics), Digital Marketing (Google analytics), SEO/ SEM, Microsoft office, Adobe Creative packages.

MOST IMPORTANT PLAYERS - CORPORATE

MOST IMPORTANT PLAYERS - AGENCIES

What is Entertainment & Media about?

ENTRETAINMENT & MEDIA

Radio and television broadcasters, film production companies, and publishing companies comprise the media and entertainment industry. These segments include movies, TV shows, radio shows, news, music, newspapers, magazines, and books. For example, some media and entertainment companies are TWDC Enterprises (a media conglomerate of The Walt Disney Company), Warner Media LLC, BBC, Mediaset, Publieurope and many more.

In general, media and entertainment jobs include reporters, correspondents, and broadcast news analysts; writers and authors; editors; photographers; graphic designers; translators; film and video editors and camera operators; broadcast and sound engineering technicians; announcers; producers and directors; and performers—from actors to musicians and composers. The workers who are behind the scenes and focused on the business side are public relations people, talent agents and representatives, marketing managers, entertainment lawyers, and distribution workers, among others.

MOST COMMON TITLES AND ROLES

  • COPYWRITERS

    They express, promote, and interpret ideas and facts in written form for books, magazines, trade journals, newspapers, Web sites, technical studies and reports, company newsletters, radio and television broadcasts, and advertisements.

    Most copywriters are employed in the advertising industry. Their main goal is to persuade the general public to choose or favor certain goods, services, and personalities.

  • FILM AND TELEVISION EDITORS

    They perform an essential role in the motion picture and television industries. They take an unedited draft of film, videotape, or digital video and use specialized equipment and software to improve the draft until it is ready for viewing. It is the responsibility of the film or television editor to create the most effective product possible.

  • PRODUCERS

    They organize and secure the financial backing for the production of motion pictures and television shows. They decide which scripts will be used or which books will be adapted for film or a television show.

    Producers also raise money to finance the filming of a motion picture or television show; hire the director, screenwriter, and cast; oversee the budget and production schedule; and monitor the distribution of the film.

  • PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS

    They perform a variety of support tasks for film, television, and video producers and other staff members. They must be prepared to help out everywhere, ensuring that daily operations run as smoothly as possible.

    Some production assistants may perform substantive jobs, such as reviewing scripts, but others may primarily run errands. They must be willing to work hard and keep long hours at times, since tight production schedules require full days. An agreeable temperament and willingness to follow instructions and perform simple tasks are very important skills for work in this field.

  • DISTRIBUTION EXECUTIVE

    Distribution executives get films into cinemas and TV dramas onto TV screens and onto other streaming platforms like Amazon or Netflix.

    Distribution executives go to film markets where they look at films and acquire them from production companies or sales agents. They negotiate for the rights to release them. These deals cover a set period of time and include agreements about promotion, classification of the film and any edits allowed. In TV drama, distributors play a slightly different role. Big budget dramas are usually financed by a combination of TV channels and distribution companies. The distribution company will advance money for the production of the drama against the right to sell broadcast rights in the program for a set time period in specific countries.

For more information about jobs in the Marketing and Communication sector go and reaserch the Firsthand Guides.

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TOP SKILLS YOU WILL NEED IN THE ENTERTAINMENT & MEDIA WORLD

Skills required:

  • Strategic planning, leading and supervision of media, digital, trade marketing, third parties, creative, stunt activations and events. Being able to measure ROI investment.
  • Strong knowledge of production, business of film & TV.
  • Optimizing team processes for effective collaboration and communication.
  • Media and Creative agencies management.
  • Budget management.
  • Strong Communication skills.

MOST IMPORTANT PLAYERS - MEDIA

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Opportunities & Musts During Your Time at IEU

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There are a number of things you can do while at IE that can boost your CV and experience for Marketing and Communications.

IE MARKETING CLUB
Join student clubs and attend company presentations and networking events. This will give you relevant information and keep you updated on industry trends and news! Becoming an active member of clubs will demonstrate your interest in the industry so make sure you include it in your CV. Join here.

IEU LABS
IEU Labs provide hands-on, internship-like experience on campus to first and second-year students who wish to start gaining professional practice. There are many IEU Labs for you to choose from, and by joining one you will not only get to build your professional profile and gain valuable practical knowledge of different sectors, but you will also have direct contact with managers and directors of leading companies, extending your professional network.

Application normally takes place in fall but check all the details here.

VIRTUAL EXPERIENCES
To enhance your profile and gain skills and some experience you can consider doing an Online Virtual Experience / Internship. Check the following platform:

The Forage
Extern

Examples of First Jobs after Graduation from IE alumni. Link here.

Application & Recruitment Process

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RECRUITMENT PROCESS & THE TOOLS TO HELP YOU PREPARE

  • 1. CV, COVER LETTER & ELEVATOR PITCH

    Remember to always tailor your CV and Cover Letter based on the job role within the specific sub-industry you are applying for. Your CV should have all the keywords that are in the Job Description of a specific role and sector.

    Resources:

    • Webinar, IE Templates and VMock all in the Career Development Training.
    • Prepare your Elevator Pitch by using the VMock Feature for it. Instructions here.
  • 2. ONLINE ASSESSMENT

    Most of the time companies will send you some psychometric (cognitive or aptitude) tests to complete online. They usually measure different skills (numerical, reasoning, language, etc.). Make sure you practice before taking the official test through JobTestPrep.

  • 3. FIRST INTERVIEW(S)

    If you pass the online tests, you will most probably be called for the first interviews. They can be:

    Video Interviews: Companies use this type of interview as a first step to filter candidates. You will have to record yourself answering a series of questions and send it over to the company before a deadline (usually, 1 week).

    Resources:

    HR/Behavioral and Competency-based Interviews: During this interview, the company wants to know more about you, your motivation, and skills.

    Resources:

    • Make sure you research about the company (Mission, Vision, Values, Strategy, Products, Latest News, etc.)
    • Review in detail the job description so you have a clear idea of what they are looking for.
    • Check some Competency-Based Questions and remember to use the STAR method to structure your answers.
    • Do not forget to let your Career Advisor know when you have an interview.
  • 4. CASE/ASSESSMENT CENTER

    Generally when applying to Graduate Programs this is a step you will need to go through. It can be a series of exercises in groups or individual activities where companies want to see how you work. They will evaluate a series of skills that can include leadership, problem solving, teamwork, communication etc.

    Resources:

    • Check some tips for Group Dynamics and do not forget to contact your Career Advisor for more preparation material.
  • 5. TECHNICAL MARKETING QUESTIONS

    Review this link in case you have a techincal interview and they will ask you to leverage some knowledge about marketing

  • 6. FINAL INTERVIEW

    As the final stage of the process you will probably interview with a Manager/Senior of the area you are applying for.

    Resources:

    • Make sure you prepare for this final stage by contacting your Career Advisor for preparation material.
    • Finally, remember to ask interesting questions when given the opportunity to do so, this can make you memorable and make the difference.

Alumni in Marketing, Communications & Media

These links showcase IE alumni thriving in Marketing, Communications & Media. They provide valuable insights into their career journeys and the skills they developed at IE. Enjoy exploring!

Practical Activities

Now that you have learned more about the world of marketing and communications, please complete the following steps so you can prepare for your applications and recruitment processes.

1. PICK YOUR AREA OF INTEREST
From the main focus areas in the marketing and communications field, please select the one you are most interested in, so you can prepare and get your application material ready.

2. DEVELOP YOUR SKILLS
Choose minimum 2 of the skills listed that are important in the field. Search how can you develop this during your semester. Also take a look at the activities you can do at IE that you might want to include later on your CV.

3. BUILD YOUR OWN TOP 20 LIST OF COMPANIES/POSITIONS
Now that you have learned more about the Marketing & Communications function make a list of the Top 20 Companies you would like to work in.

For each of them identify at least one potential role you would like to apply to (Check the career website of each company/Career Portal/ LinkedIn etc.

You can download this spreadsheet and fill it out! This will help you get started on your internship/job search and start preparing for the application process.

4. PREPARE YOUR CV
Based on the Job Description you want to apply to, customize your CV. Use all the information in this document as a guide to help you present your profile.

5. THE EXTRA MILE
To prepare for your applications you can also:

Check more information on Marketing Vault Guides

Use Firsthand, a platform to promote networking between IE alumni and current students. Students can register as Mentees and request a 30-minute informational mentor session with IE alumni from different regions across all sectors.

To acces Firsthand User Guide:

  1. Go to ie.firsthand.co
  2. Click on get advice
  3. Set up your profile using IE network log in. Alumni can also use LinkedIn option to log in.

FOR BACHELORS: SECTOR TUESDAY OPEN OFFICE HOURS

If you are interested in Companies related to this sector you can also attend the Sector Tuesday Open Office Hour, which takes place on a weekly basis on Tuesday in your Careers Slot (11:30 -12:30 and 16:00 -17:00)

Register in IEConnects at least one day before the session. "Chat with our Sector Specialized Career Advisors"

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