As a freelance marketing writer, I’ve partnered with many marketing managers and directors. It’s a tough job that requires a lot of balancing between data and creativity, between vision and application, and between executives and customers.
Here are some ways to make management, well, more manageable.
Get comfortable with data
The explosion of measurement and storage options has made data a major priority for companies and executives. Marketing managers must not only accept that their role is important for the company’s revenue, but be prepared to back up their decisions with data. Keep good records of the data you need to track to measure your success.
Balance data and creativity
While you must support your marketing decisions and measure success with hard data, don’t forget to be creative. And while innovative campaigns often win marketing awards, they don’t always win revenue. Take what’s proven to work and put your own spin on it.
Lead by example
“Do as I say, not as I do” is a recipe for disaster for managers of all kinds. Keep your message to employees, executives, and clients clear and consistent. Don’t ask employees to do what you won’t do yourself. These practices can boost employee engagement and morale, leading to an improved bottom line.
Study conflict management
In this Information Age, there is no excuse for ignorance. Conflict management and effective communication are must-have skills to manage the balancing act between customers, your team, and executives. Learn new techniques, whether you attend a seminar, read a highly rated book on negotiation, take a psychology class, or read a how-to article.
Learn to navigate the middle
Positioned between executives and subordinates, marketing managers frequently change roles within a day. Make this go smoothly by being proactive with your own superiors and learning what is important to them. At the same time, be open with your team and encourage feedback from them. In both cases, focus on building relationships—don’t try to do everything by yourself.
Be willing to experiment
Markets, trends, and customer desires often change, and marketing managers should always be ready to follow these shifts. Sometimes that means abandoning certain techniques when they no longer serve their purpose. Don’t be afraid to take a chance on something new.
Support your team
Unless you’re working for a very small company, being a marketing manager means managing others. Get to know them well, learn their communication styles, strengths, and weaknesses. Provide guidance and feedback, but also give them the chance to shine.
Recognize your importance
Switching roles between managing and being managed often creates stress and frustration, but it is also a unique, important position. Research shows that middle managers have a significant impact on their companies, including revenue. While all jobs seem thankless at times, remember your importance. Be sure to take time out for self-care and stress reduction—you deserve it.
Thanks for reading! if you’ve found this article to be helpful, or know someone who could benefit from it, please share.
Overwhelmed with your responsibilities a marketing manager? Check out my website at emjwriter.com or connect on LinkedIn and we can talk about how I can help with your marketing content needs!
Emily Jacobs: Freelance Writer 