Professionals fresh out of college and recent graduates seeking a career in marketing roles have more options than ever in today’s flourishing economy. Thanks to China’s rapid economic growth and commitment to innovation, the country now offers a large selection of jobs within marketing – from small business positions to executive roles – all of which are ripe for the taking.
Understanding the Marketing Jobs For Fresh Graduates
Thanks to China’s robust economy, there’s been tremendous growth in marketing jobs for fresh graduates. Specifically, China’s rapid development has sparked an increase in domestic purchasing power, which has in turn created a demand for products and services, in turn requiring the implementation of marketing strategies to reach consumer markets. This has opened up a wide array of positions for fresh graduates, with titles ranging from “Marketing Manager” to “Marketing Assistant” and beyond.
For fresh graduates looking to embark on a career in marketing, there are a variety of roles one can fill in order to make an impact on a company’s success.
Marketing Manager
One of the most sought after positions for fresh grads is that of a marketing manager. This type of role involves strong organizational and analytical skills as managers are required to develop and measure marketing plans, strategies and objectives. Additionally, marketing managers must coordinate both internal and external relationships in order to ensure that all marketing initiatives are delivered as intended.
Digital Marketing Specialist
In an ever-connected world, digital marketing has become an integral part of any marketing program. As such, it’s no surprise that many companies are looking to hire fresh grads as digital marketing specialists. Digital marketing specialists are charged with utilizing digital channels such as email, search, AdWords and social media to craft sophisticated campaigns to reach target audiences.
Content Marketing Specialist
Content marketing involves strategizing creative ways to engage with prospects via campaigns. As a content marketer, fresh grads will be tasked with researching digital trends, tweaking existing content, crafting creative copy, and designing imaginative campaigns with the goal of increasing traffic and leads.
In today’s world of constant digital connection, social media has become a powerful platform for marketing campaigns. As a result, many companies specifically looking for fresh graduates with a passion for engaging with customers on social media. Social media managers are responsible for monitoring, managing, and developing relationships with customers via social media channels.
SEO Specialist
Search engine optimization (SEO) has become an incredibly important factor in helping companies reach their customer base. As an SEO specialist, fresh graduates will be required to employ strategies in order to increase website rankings on search engine results for desired terms. Strategies employed often include website coding and structure optimization, content optimization, link building, and other tasks to ensure organic (non-paid) placement on search engines.
Copywriters are typically responsible for crafting creative, interesting, and persuasive messaging that will help drive customer engagement and sales. Fresh graduates with a flair for the written word are often tasked with writing copy that conveys a company’s values and is persuasive enough to convert leads to customers.
Navigating the Chinese Job Market
When it comes to finding jobs in China, the best (and perhaps most daunting) way to search is via the Chinese job market.
Online
The Chinese job market is largely online, with job postings located on recruitment platforms such as Zhaopin (online job board powered by Renren) and 51job (focused on skilled positions and professionals). If you’re a fresh grad looking to get into marketing, these sites are the perfect place to start.
Networking
Networking is another important tool when searching for a marketing job in China. Fresh graduates set to enter the marketing industry should look to tap their online networks, connect with industry veterans, and find mentors that can help guide their career path.
Job Expos
Industry job fairs can be a great way to make connections and gain an understanding of the job landscape. Chinese cities often host several job expos throughout the year that promote various learning opportunities and career paths. Keep an eye out for job fairs in your area, as they are often free and many potential employers target them to find fresh graduates.
Securing Your First Marketing Job
When entering the job market, particularly for a highly sought after profession like marketing, it is important for fresh graduates to possess the requisite skills to stand apart from the competition. As such, below are a few tips for fresh grads looking to secure their first marketing job:
Be Open to Different Paths
The job market today is highly competitive, so fresh grads should remain open to the wide array of potential opportunities that may be available. Although it’s always best to have a specific job in mind, look for other roles that require similar skillsets and experience where you can produce results.
Develop Job-Specific Skills
Make sure to take the time to understand the skill sets required for different roles and focus on honing them. Once you’ve identified the specific skills you need, begin the process of developing them. This can be done through specialised courses, attending workshops, or even online training or MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) platforms.
Identify Your Value
Employers are always looking for capable professionals who can make a difference. As such, it’s important for fresh graduates to identify their areas of expertise, whether it’s in paid search, content marketing, or social media, and showcase how those skills can add value to their organization.
Marketing jobs for fresh graduates in China are plentiful. By taking the time to understand the job market, equipping yourself with necessary skills, and displaying your value, you can carve a successful path for yourself in the marketing industry.