We need marketing. What should we hire for?

'We need marketing. What should we hire for?'

Most of my conversations with founders revolve around this question. It arises when they're ready to invest in marketing but aren't sure about the type of marketer required for the job.

Here are my 2 cents:

1. Define Your Marketing Goals: Do you understand how marketing aligns with your business objectives? Do you want to increase brand awareness, drive lead generation, or help with retention? All of the above? Clarifying goals helps in targeting the right skill set.

2. Bridge the Knowledge Gap If you don’t have a background or experience in marketing, you’re going to have a hard time figuring out how marketing fits in the picture. Lean on your mentors and advisors as they can help you understand how marketing can fuel your startup's growth. If you don’t have any, start looking.

3. Look Beyond Traditional Experience: Don't solely focus on candidates with traditional marketing backgrounds. Consider individuals with diverse skill sets, such as product management, analytics, or even entrepreneurial experience. Adaptability and a growth mindset are invaluable traits.

4. Test for Strategic Thinking Assess candidates' strategic thinking abilities during the interview process. Ask how they would approach marketing challenges specific to your industry. Look for candidates who can demonstrate a clear understanding of your target audience.

5. Cultural Fit Matters Beyond skills and experience, prioritise cultural fit. Your first marketer will play a crucial role in shaping your startup's identity and voice. Seek candidates who align with your company values and can thrive in a dynamic startup environment.Hiring the right marketer is a strategic investment in your startup's success. By addressing these challenges first, you'll be better equipped to find the perfect addition to your team.

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I sincerely hope this helps!
G

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