Marketing coordinators assist with the marketing efforts for a particular brand or product. They are typically responsible research and administrative activities, and may provide support to a varied group of specialists, from market researchers to package designers. Marketing coordinators work closely with marketing specialists and managers, helping them in carrying out their marketing plans.
Job Outlook for Marketing Coordinators
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), overall employment for marketing managers, specialists and coordinators is projected to remain steady in the coming years. Growth will be driven by domestic and global competition in consumer products and services. Job competition can be tough, and the best marketing opportunities will be for job seekers with specialized skills or advanced education.
Job Duties
Marketing coordinators’ job duties often include conducting research, maintaining contact databases and campaign archives, contacting vendors to request bids, coordinating production of collateral and trade show displays, and preparing marketing materials for distribution. Some marketing coordinators may assist in the development of collateral tools, including presentations and marketing materials, and help with promotional programs and campaign strategies to increase product awareness.
A marketing coordinator will usually work in a corporate office, but may be required to run errands on behalf of the marketing team. Travel and long hours are often required in marketing careers. Deadlines and a fast work pace are typical in this industry, and stress can be part of the job.
Marketing Coordinator Salary Potential
Marketing salaries vary depending on education, skills, company size and the industry involved. Associate’s degree holders will typically start out in a marketing coordinator role and work their way up. National salary data on PayScale.com indicates that marketing coordinators typically earned between $32,128 and $44,977 as of July 2010. While graduates with only an associate’s degree will generally have an income at the lower end of that salary range, they can attain promotions and substantially higher earnings with further education and experience.
Education and Training
Most marketing coordinator positions will require at least an associate’s degree. Many employers prefer to hire candidates with a bachelor’s degree or previous experience, although some offer on-the-job training to qualified applicants. Higher-level marketing positions may require a master’s degree in business administration with a specialization in marketing. However, an associate’s degree can help graduates land a desirable internship or marketing coordinator job that will enable them to gain valuable work experience.
The first step to pursuing a marketing coordinator job can be an associate’s degree in marketing. Coursework typically includes statistics, accounting, writing, economics, social science and a variety of marketing topics.
A marketing education prepares graduates to:
- Identify target markets and estimate product demand.
- Master fundamentals of successful goods and services marketing.
- Effectively communicate with clients, senior agency executives and consumers.
- Launch an advertising campaign, from planning to execution and analysis.
- Transition into a bachelor’s in marketing program.
Many firms offer opportunities for continuing education. It’s possible to gain an entry-level job with an associate’s degree and use an employer’s tuition assistance program to pay for a bachelor’s degree.
Is a Marketing Coordinator Position the Right Choice for You?
For people with strong communication and research skills, who are well-organized and able to pay strict attention to detail, employment as a marketing coordinator can pave the way to a successful marketing career. The marketing industry is fast-paced and requires continual skill upgrades, so a commitment to lifelong learning is another great attribute to possess if you’re interested in this exciting career choice.