Career Profiles: Marketing

CSULB Department of Marketing

Marketing is concerned with planning, implementing and controlling efficient distribution systems for goods and services designed to satisfy chosen consumer segments. It involves the broad areas of product development, pricing, promotion, distribution management as carried out by producers, wholesalers and retailers. The types of marketing occupations are as diverse as the marketing field itself. Due to the growing size and complexity of domestic and international economics, marketing personnel often begin their careers in sales and then move into staff and/or management positions. Modern-day sales require smart, hardworking and sophisticated salespeople. Other marketing staff personnel are employed in such service and staff functions as advertising, product planning, marketing research, purchasing, and public relations. All entry-level, marketing positions can lead to marketing management positions such as sales manager, advertising manager, sales promotion director, and marketing research manager. Positions typically require a high level of creativity and attention to detail. Skills at personal planning and interacting with others are highly prized. Majors learn about marketing, communication, promotion strategies, consumer behavior, and retail concepts.