Marketing is a massive and rapidly changing industry in the UK today. It is estimated that worldwide marketing services are worth more than £50 billion annually, and the UK accounts for a significant proportion of the total revenue generated. Although nearly all companies require marketing services, few undertake the task entirely in-house, and the majority of positions are found in independent firms and advertising agencies.
Careers in marketing tend to be socially oriented, which means networking and communication skills are necessities. The industry is also one in which there exist many opportunities for merit-based upward mobility. Positions in the field sometimes require long hours, and are traditionally based upon deadline completion. Recruitment agencies commonly list positions for graphic designers, MAC operators, and SEO specialists. Most large employers prefer applicants to have HND or university degrees, but qualification requirements vary widely, and there are many opportunities for those without strong academic backgrounds.
Salaries range from about £17K to £47K annually, and the overall average is about £28K. In London and the South East, however, average earnings are much higher. There is currently a particular need for those with experience in social media marketing and web-based campaigns.