3 Rules of Thumb for Finding a Marketing Job
The path to finding your perfect job requires focus and execution
As one of the leading marketing and communications search firms in the DC region, TorchLight’s recruiters have had the opportunity to talk with thousands of candidates at various stages in their careers. Whether a few years out of college or armed with 20+ years of experience, job searches overwhelm many DC job seekers. Looking for help finding a marketing job?
Some of the questions we hear from marketing and communications job seekers are:
- Where do I start?
- How do I get my resume in front of an actual person?
- Speaking of resumes, do people even use them anymore? (Yes they do).
We agree that the search for that perfect marketing and communications job can be a daunting process. However, a few simple strategies will not only help you find a job but also help you chart a career path for long-term success.
1. Find Your Focus
The first step in finding a marketing job online. That works, but in an age of information overload, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed before even starting. For example, a quick Google search with the terms “marketing jobs DC” yields 45 MILLION results! The same search on a popular online job board yields 9,000 results – a little less extreme, but you get the idea: going online and sending your resume into the abyss is not likely the best use of your time or talents.
Instead, we recommend focusing on one or two job titles or areas of expertise. Choose a handful that closely align with your background and goals. For example, if you have experience working with search engine marketing and optimizing websites, you might start with a term like “digital marketing manager.” With this slight modification, your online job search will instantly become more focused and you will narrow in on opportunities much faster.
2. Form You, Inc.
“A” players practice the art of the long view when it comes to their job search. The most successful candidates aren’t just looking for a job; they are managing their careers and view their job as an opportunity to offer their existing skills and talents in exchange for long-term professional growth. When searching for a job, these candidates focus on their expertise (see above) and tap into their network and resources (see below) to find that next big thing.
In the book The Start-Up of You, authors Reid Hoffman (co-founder of LinkedIn) and Ben Casnocha impart some helpful advice in this area: Great people, like great companies, are always evolving. They’re never finished and never fully developed. Each day presents an opportunity to learn more, do more, grow more.
3. Mind Your Manners
You have the focus, you have the skills, and now you’ve found that one-in-45 million perfect job. Congratulations, you are almost there! But remember, the process of applying and interviewing for a job is a demonstration of your work, so handle it with care. Treat all of your interactions with potential employers, colleagues and recruiters with professionalism and keep the lines of communication open. You never know where your next job might come from.
Maintaining a professional reputation goes beyond your personal interactions and extends to your digital footprint as well. Build your network and stand out online with active LinkedIn and social media channels. That said, consider how potential employers or clients might view your comments, activities, and photos.
Looking for experienced marketing recruiters to meet your search, staffing and job search needs? We’re here to help!
- Contact us about your marketing search & staffing needs
- Search marketing, communications, and creative jobs
