A key part of marketing is the ability to get on well with people, whether they are clients or staff. You need to be able to discuss complex situations to develop a clear strategy for your clients, and you need to be able to manage a number of projects and keep your staff motivated and informed. The ability to keep deadlines is crucial too!
You will need to have suitable office equipment; a computer, good quality printer, telephone equipment and furniture. A laptop that you can take to meetings with clients is also very useful.
There are no mandatory qualifications needed, though most potential clients will expect you to have a Higher National Diploma (HND), degree or similar; as the majority of marketing employers do.
With marketing agencies/managers, the amount of money that you earn is related to the amount of experience, knowledge and ability that you have. Once you can prove your ability, you can look at charging more for your services; as clients will know that you can get results.
A marketing business can attract clients through word of mouth, and also through advertising in relevant trade magazines. For smaller, newer marketing businesses; advertising in local directories can help gain small business clients.
A marketing business will generally be much more successful if you have several years experience with another company, without that experience it will be very difficult to gain clients. With the right knowledge and ability however, it is possible to make a lot of money and grow a successful and expanding business in a relatively short period of time.
Pro:
There are very high potential earnings for good results.
If successful there are very high expansion possibilities
Con:
There is likely to be a lot of competition, particularly in larger towns and cities.
A lot of learning is required if you do not already have the knowledge or experience.
You may have difficulty in persuading companies to trust a newer/smaller company.
Skill Level = Medium to High
Start up Costs = Low to Medium
Training = Long and Short courses
Experience = Important, but some is gained during qualifications.
Equipment Costs = Medium
Location/Office Costs = Medium
Transport Required = Yes
No of Staff (incl. you) = 2-6
Overview
There are thousands of types of business you can start, but the key to success is finding something you are good at, and that people want (or will want if it is a new product or service).
Starting a new business is always going to carry risk; but by ensuring you are prepared for the work ahead, you can help improve your chances of success.
