The marketing role is often underestimated in businesses because its impacts, like brand building and customer engagement, are long-term and not immediately quantifiable. Unlike direct revenue-generating departments, marketing’s contributions, such as brand reputation and customer loyalty, are harder to measure and demand patience. This leads to it being seen as less critical, especially in companies that focus on short-term gains and lack a deep understanding of marketing’s strategic importance for long-term success.
Understanding the right time to bring in a marketing manager can be a game-changer. But how do you know it’s time? Let us go through the signs that indicate the need for a marketing manager.
Scenario 1: Your business is growing, but your marketing Isn’t
Imagine your restaurant has been doing well, and you’ve opened a second location. Sales are steady, but you’re stuck with the same old marketing strategies that may not necessarily cut it at your latest branch. You would require fresh, eye-catching campaigns that draw in crowds to both locations. Think social media buzz, exclusive offers, and events so hot they’ll have people lining up (at both restaurants!). At this point, you would have to understand that a marketing manager isn’t just an expense, they’re a rocket booster for your expanding business.
Scenario 2: You’re overwhelmed with marketing decisions
Remember when you started your business, and marketing was as simple as posting on social media? At that point it probably made more economic sense for you to ask your admin assistant to take photos of your products and simply post on social media. Now, with more products and customers, deciding where to advertise, what promotions to run, and managing social media becomes overwhelming.
A growing community means more complaints, more trends and competitors to monitor and demands for thoughtful approach to your communications.
Additionally, digital marketing, which is today’s go-to channel can also feel like navigating a labyrinth, and, it is highly unlikely that you will have a fully capable digital marketing team under one roof for SEO, email marketing, social media marketing or online advertising. A competent marketing manager can demystify these areas, help supervise and manage the various freelancers or agencies you have for these services and ensure your business doesn’t miss out on key digital marketing opportunities.
Scenario 3: Sales have plateaued or declined
When sales plateau or drop, and you’ve tried everything you know, a marketing manager can offer fresh, professional insight to turn things around. It is unrealistic to expect your sales to be on a rise constantly but it is also unusual to have your numbers flat or on a constant decline for prolonged periods.
While a marketing manager is not a sales person, they may be able to help you to spot the disconnect between the sales and marketing functions that is making repeat buyers stop or deterring first-time buyers from finding you or learning about you.
Scenario 4: Your Brand Message is Unclear or Outdated
Time always forces evolution in the business World. By year 3 in your business, it is very likely that your target audience has changed, your aspirations have changed and the industry in which you operate has evolved as well. If your brand message hasn’t evolved with your business, a marketing manager can help redefine and communicate your brand effectively to your new target audience. They bring you a fresh set of eyes and ideas that will help you stay relevant and appealing in modern times.
Knowing when to hire a marketing manager can be crucial for your business’s growth and success. If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it might be time to bring in a professional. A good marketing manager can transform your business’s marketing efforts and set you on the path to new heights. Remember, investing in effective marketing is investing in the future of your business.