Marketing is changing every day – literally. There are new apps that go live and suddenly become popular (TikTok), new platforms for everything from managing your marketing tactics and reporting to managing content, as well as ongoing updates and new development by the largest players, such as Google and Facebook. I wrote about this just a few months ago and I’m following up with another post to provide additional resources and ideas about how to keep up – at least in the marketing world.
Marketers need to be vigilant about learning all the time. What are some good ways to do that? Here are a few:
- Set up a Google alert
I have a Google alert set up that sends me links every day. This is how I keep up with topics that are of interest to me in marketing, using keywords that focus on my business. What keywords can you use right now to set up a Google alert so you are updated every day?
2) Follow thought leaders in your industry – read their blogs, newsletters, etc.
In every field, there are thought leaders who are at the forefront of what’s changing on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. If you don’t know who they are, find out!
I’m always interested in what’s happening the world of SEO (Search Engine Optimization), for example, because Google is changing its criteria all the time. It’s important that I know the best ways for my clients to be found organically, as well as by using tools such as pay-per-click.
One of the best thought leaders in this area is Rand Fishkin, who founded SEOMoz and now has a new blog, SparkToro. I get his newsletters, too, which help me to understand the latest changes, issues, and trends in SEO.
3) Meet with other professionals in your area
Another great way to stay informed about what’s going on in your industry, or in marketing, is to be part of your local area group. I’ve done this through my local Chamber of Commerce, as well as other groups.
Check out the local or regional industry associations in your area. By getting to know others who do what you do, you can share best practices, learn new tips, and share your interests and concerns.
4) Attend conferences and trade shows
To attend conferences and trade shows often means travel. If you can do this, it can be tremendous – helping your own professional growth, as well as learning at a whole new level.
If you can’t attend a great conference or show, you can still follow livestreams, download event videos, read the trade industry coverage, etc. There are lots of ways stay in touch with these events and the news that’s announced during them.
5) Read sources outside your industry
While its important to stay on top of trade publications in your industry, it’s also helpful to read other sources. For example, I like to read the business sections of the New York Times and the digital news in the Wall Street Journal, to see what has hit the “mainstream.” It’s always interesting to see what they pick up on, the “hot topics,” and other ways that my area (digital marketing) is being viewed.
Do you have other tips? Feel free to share below! In the meantime, reach out to me if you’d like to talk about what’s happening now in marketing. I’m always happy to chat!
