Want to succeed as a B2B marketer? The 'marcomms' career space is crowded and competitive. At AZK Media, we're as passionate about supporting our client's business growth as we are nurturing the B2B marketing community. If you're looking to a career in B2B marketing, here's 5 things you need to know to help you stand out from the crowd.
1. Learn and upskill
Marketing is a fast moving beast. The technology, systems, processes and strategy are constantly changing. Make sure you're across the latest industry trends, challenges and new marketing channels and platforms, so your skills remain relevant. There's no room for complacency in today's B2B marketing landscape. Always be learning.
2. Invest in short courses or go to your leading B2B marketing events
Take a day off and invest in learning the latest tricks of the trade. With the internet at your fingertips and social distancing, this is the perfect time to brush up on some skills or learn new ones. The Australian Academy of Digital Marketing, AIM, General Assembly, B2B Marketing Leaders Forum and ADMA are some of the many organisations that offer workshops, short and long courses for those in the industry who want to stay across the latest marketing strategies. These are also a great place to network and uncover fresh career opportunities.
3. Shop around for the 'right career fit'
As much as you might 'really' want that dream job, it pays to shop around. Perhaps the dynamic, exciting role you wanted where there's room to challenge yourself and grow doesn't sit in one of the big B2B vendors, perhaps it actually exists in a smaller, more agile agency. Often larger B2B organisations are very 'top heavy', riddled with 'marcomms rigmarole' and give their marcomms talent little wriggle room. Even the largest and most powerful of B2B vendors can be guilty of 'clipping the wings' of their marketing talent. It's one of the reasons B2B marketing talent tenure is so low.
4. Polish your LinkedIn
One of the critical components of a great B2B marketing leader is the strength of their LinkedIn profile. It is through this profile you will be communicating a lot about the business you'll be representing. So ask yourself, does my LinkedIn demonstrate I would be a great brand ambassador for the B2B job I am going for? If it's a long way off, time to polish your profile, redo your headshot, and up those testimonials.
5. Align with the right influencers
In B2B marketing, much like many professions, it's not what you know, but who you know. Align with the right B2B marketing leaders, influencers and mentors, who can help guide your career path and introduce you to the right people. You never know, you may be one connection away from the job of your dreams!