As a marketing director you need to have a lot of information readily accessible and I don’t mean a file folder bulging with color copies! The internet has been a boom for the field, by providing key knowledge, when needed, on topics as diverse as brand management to consumer trends. The following is a list of the sites I found most important in my daily life as a marketing director.
Big Idea Trends - Macro Trend Sites
To be a good marketing director you need to know what the major trends are in the marketplace are. Check out these sites for some great insights.
1. FastCompany
2. TED
3. Entrepreneur
4. Inc.
5. Associated press
Up and Coming Trends to Watch Out For - Micro Trend Sites
Understanding the big ideas will only get you so far; you have to understand what is up and coming. What are people talking about? These sites let you in on the consumer buzz. A good marketing director is checking these sites daily (and not just to watch the new funny video or check on the status of your Facebook farm.)
6. TV By The Numbers
7. AFIs 10 Top 10
8. YouTube
9. Twitter
10. Facebook
11. Ning
12. iVillage
Great Marketers To Observe
To be great at what you do, you need to observe and learn from the best. In my opinion, watching the keen marketing genius of brands like Apple and Disney has been critical to my success as a marketing director, besides, their commercials are fun and I like singing the jingles while I work.
13. Disney
14. Apple
General Marketing Insights
Skill building is crucial in the marketing field. These sites give you a good grounding in the fundamentals of marketing as well as keep you abreast of the tips and tricks you need to know. And you thought you needed a degree in marketing! Who knew?
15. Marketing Power
16. Business Marketing Association
17. Marketing Sherpa
18. Brandweek
19. Brandchannel
20. Marcomm Wise