Marketing program manager skills for your resume and career

Students often underestimate the importance of soft skills. To succeed in a marketing career, you need to be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, work well in a team environment, use critical and creative thinking, and get along with others. On an individual level, successful marketers are typically good time managers, decisive, adaptable to change, good listeners, and open to feedback. Emotional intelligence plays a significant role in one's career progression and success.

As a science and an art, marketing utilizes both soft skills and technical skills on a daily basis. While some technologies are industry-specific, having an understanding and basic mastery of data analysis, statistics, data visualization, digital marketing, marketing research, and customer relationship management will position a candidate well.

Taking a gap year is a deliberate act, not flying by the seat of one's pants, i.e., just figuring things out as you go along. It entails establishing a plan prior to that year. Determining how the time will be spent is key to realizing a successful outcome. It is highly recommended to have a strategy on the specifics of what will be done during the year; otherwise, risk being unproductive. Reasons for taking a gap year are varied. Perhaps to reflect (on the past, present, future), ponder potential goals, and/or recalibrate. It is also a viable way to manage burnout. The gap year offers an opportunity to travel (experience other cultures), volunteer (for a cause of interest), learn new skills by experimenting with different types of jobs, etc. However, a gap year is not without its pitfalls. For example, it may be difficult going back to regular life, reinforcing the importance of having a plan at the outset.

As always, new graduates will need to remain in "learning mode" and be adaptable to the workplace. Their business school education prepares them with a skill set and a mindset for problem-solving that they will use throughout their career. So the ability to pick up new software and technology (like we all have recently with online platforms) is one necessary skill. The ability to communicate interpersonally and effectively remains a valuable skill. Further, the ability to communicate complex arguments and/or quantitative data takes time and practice to develop. An especially valuable skill is being able to recognize opportunities in the market i.e., what's next. It's a combination of art and science, using your analytical skills to see what's not there and how to address a future need creatively.

Business, creative, and organizational skills - I would recommend that upcoming graduates are proficient in Word, Excel (highly used), Powerpoint, Outlook (especially how to send meeting requests and calendar organization), TEAMS, Gantt charts for team management, Mindmapping for creativity, and design software. Additionally, I would recommend that they learn how to properly utilize social media for marketing and PR, not just personal posting. Finally, email etiquette would be essential.