The general consensus has been that cross training keeps employees interested and engaged, while ensuring that employers can cover staffing in the event of a crisis or even just a vacation. Like the cross trained McDonald's employee, marketing generalists (which we predict to be a major trend for job seekers in 2016) know a little bit about a number of techniques. This makes them perfect for the small business seeking to make an impact across multiple marketing venues. The marketing generalist is a Jack (or Jill) of all trades, and while they may even be particularly competent within a few skill sets, they can work outside the box of the marketing specialist, making them a good value for small business.
The 2016 Marketing Generalist
If you read our predictions for 2016 you'll know that there is an increasing need for the generalist, particularly with the expanding emphasis on social media. The creative job seeker of the future will know social media, be able to write content, understand public relations, and even be able to tweak a design here or there. The segmented marketing specialist will not be as attractive to employers who want to do more with less.
If your business is small, then it's likely you cannot afford to hire a team of segmented creative talent experts. You'll need one key player in the corner office that can write your blog, tweak your database, and talk to the press -- among other skills.
Finding Your Marketing Generalist
Your first step, when considering hiring a marketing generalist, is to define one or two areas where they could really help your business. Then, when screening for the generalist, watch for strengths in those few particular areas. You might be looking for a B2B marketing generalist with content marketing and social media expertise. Or perhaps you'll need strengths in business modeling or pay-per-click marketing. Whatever your needs, Artisan Talent has a ready pool of marketing generalists ready to help you build your business. Review our job pool, and then contact us today to find the perfect marketing generalist to fit your business.
Becoming a Marketing Generalist
Looking to stay competitive in the job market and add skills to your resume? Expand your horizons and skill set by continuing to educate yourself on trends in related fields.
- Sign up for online courses from your Alma Mater or with a database like Lynda.com
- Attend local events like Creative Mornings to expand your mind and network
- Take a one day intensive class on analytics or design from places like General Assembly
- Learn from people in related fields through a group like AIGA
- Volunteer for a non-profit to develop your skills in Email Content, Graphic Design, or PR
- Start social media accounts for a small business or side project
Once you've started adding general marketing skills to your portfolio, don't forget to list them on your resume using rich keywords. Ready for a new job with your new skills? Click here to find one.
