The Best Marketing Podcasts to Boost Your Career

Listen to these downloadable audio files for helpful marketing tips, trends and insights

Molly Folse is a marketing leader with 20 years of experience in content strategy and social media, currently serving as Director of Content and Creative at Protective Life. She has led award-winning content and digital campaigns across financial services, higher education, travel, and consumer brands.

3 min read • Originally published June 7, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

By Molly Folse

@MollyFolse

Molly Folse is a marketing leader with 20 years of experience in content strategy and social media, currently serving as Director of Content and Creative at Protective Life. She has led award-winning content and digital campaigns across financial services, higher education, travel, and consumer brands.

3 min read • Originally published June 7, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

Podcasts are everywhere, and according to Pew Research they’re more than just a passing trend; the number of Americans who listen to podcasts has doubled in recent years.

These downloadable audio files entertain listeners with everything from stories of true crime to the marvels of science. But podcasts can also be great resources for valuable insights to increase your knowledge as a new marketer.

Start building your playlist with a few of these must-listen marketing podcasts.

1. The #AskGaryVee Podcast

This podcast is an extension of author, investor and popular high-energy public speaker Gary Vaynerchuk’s YouTube show. The premise is simple: You ask questions about marketing, Vaynerchuk answers them in his trademark off-the-cuff manner.

Length: Most shows are less than 30 minutes
Frequency: Once or twice weekly

View the #AskGaryVee Podcast Page

2. Call to Action Podcast

The Call to Action Podcast focuses on digital marketing. Topics include copywriting, design, social media, email marketing, lead generation, pay-per-click advertising, and, yes, calls to action, those clever words and phrases that get us to click.

Length: Most shows are less than 30 minutes
Frequency: Every Wednesday

View the Call to Action Podcast Page

3. Confessions of a Pink-Haired Marketer

Sonia Simone, Copyblogger’s chief content officer, believes in being true to yourself and real with others. Add the word “marketing” in there and you’ve got her weekly podcast. If you’re looking for career tips, motivation and someone to sort the best marketing insights from the you-know-what, then this is the show for you.

Length: 20 minutes
Frequency: Every Monday

View the Confessions of a Pink-Haired Marketer Podcast Page

4. Hit Publish

Host Amy Harrison is a full-time content marketer and part-time bluegrass singer. Her podcast, Hit Publish, is dedicated to educating new and intermediate marketing professionals on all things digital marketing—from ethics and etiquette to tried-and-true tricks of the trade.

Length: 15-20 minutes
Frequency: Every Monday

View the Hit Publish Podcast Page

5. Content Inc.

Content Marketing Institute founder Joe Pulizzi packs a lot of insight into his weekly snack-size podcast, Content Inc. Each episode comes packed with plenty of Pulizzi’s passion for content marketing and at least one actionable takeaway.

Length: 5 minutes
Frequency: Every Monday

View the Content Inc. Podcast Page

6. Marketing Over Coffee

Hosts John J. Wall and Christopher S. Penn get together in an actual coffee shop each week to discuss trends in traditional and new marketing, including how to get better leads from trade shows and tips for using virtual reality and 360-degree video.

Length: 20 minutes
Frequency: Every Thursday

View the Marketing Over Coffee Podcast Page

7. The Social Media Examiner Show

The Social Media Examiner Show offers tips on how to navigate the ever-changing social media landscape. You’ll get the latest updates on the major platforms, including how to use Snapchat optimize Facebook ads, manage a LinkedIn company page, increase engagement on Instagram and, well, you get the picture.

Length: 10 minutes
Frequency: Daily, Monday through Friday

View the Social Media Examiner Show Podcast Page

Topics:

Climb the Ladder, Skills & Expertise

Job Search

Why You Shouldn’t Pause Your Job Search This Summer

Set aside that margarita—it’s time to find your next media gig

By Valerie Berrios

@valerieberrios

Valerie Berrios is a published author and senior content manager with nearly two decades of experience in digital publishing, including roles at Audible, Disney Streaming, Everyday Health, and Mediabistro. She specializes in content strategy, editorial operations, and international content launches.

3 min read • Originally published June 9, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

By Valerie Berrios

@valerieberrios

Valerie Berrios is a published author and senior content manager with nearly two decades of experience in digital publishing, including roles at Audible, Disney Streaming, Everyday Health, and Mediabistro. She specializes in content strategy, editorial operations, and international content launches.

3 min read • Originally published June 9, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

Heading into the summer, you’ve probably got vacation, beach days and outdoor concerts on your mind. But how about your job search?

The job market is looking up for the first time in almost a decade, with companies experiencing hiring sprees, and wages finally outpacing inflation. Now’s not the time to sit back and zone out. There are jobs out there calling your name!

Alex Twersky, an expert with Mediabistro’s Career Services, says the warmer weather typically shifts professionals, whether employed or unemployed, into a lower gear. “People are more focused on planning their next exotic weekend getaway than planning their next career step,” he says.

As a result, Twersky says it could be an effective strategy to mount a strong job hunt over the summer months, when the pickings of candidates may not be as ripe for hiring managers as during peak recruiting cycles—i.e. January and February, and September and October.

Vicki Salemi, career expert for Monster, explains that it’s not necessarily easier or harder to find jobs in the summer—or any specific time of year. “Regardless of the season, the best time to apply is when companies are hiring, because they’re always looking to fill those openings as soon as possible.”

Use this window of opportunity to get your resume and cover letter in the right hands, and score that interview with these tips.

1. Stay focused and organized. “Summertime brings more distractions—hello, sunny days!—so create micromanaged to-do lists to keep yourself on course,” says Salemi.

Mediabistro’s #WeekendJobSearch series outlines some great bite-size tasks, from purging old resumes and cover letters to tweaking your social-media profiles, which you can certainly tackle during the summer lull.

2. Network during summer Fridays. “If your office has a half-day summer Friday policy, use those quiet afternoons to your advantage,” says Salemi. “Meet with networking contacts to bolster relationships, without having to constantly sneak out of the office.”

And chat during a walk in the park or at an outdoor cafe. Having conversations in casual settings helps put people at ease, she adds.

3. Be diligent when following up. Didn’t immediately hear back from a potential employer or networking contact? The reason could be that the person is lounging at the beach or visiting a Tuscan vineyard.

If you get an out-of-office reply that says when the contact is returning to work, Salemi recommends noting it on your calendar so you can follow up the afternoon of his or her first day back or the following day.

4. Don’t think of it as a “summer job search.” Lastly, “approach your job search during the summer like you would at any other time of the year,” says Salemi. Whether you’re searching for a new job online or through networking contacts, do so with determination and by appropriately marketing your skills and experiences.

Topics:

Get Hired, Job Search

Job Search

How to Use Video in Your Job Search

Are you ready for your close-up? Here are the types of videos to use to get the job you want

By KiKi L’Italien

3 min read • Originally published June 10, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

By KiKi L’Italien

3 min read • Originally published June 10, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

If you’re looking for a job, it’s time to get camera ready: Well-crafted video content has all kinds of algorithmic magic working in its favor these days. Posting your video on your blog, social media channels—including that traditional business outpost, LinkedIn—will move your job search in the right direction.

Types of video content to consider:

Video Presentation of Experience, Projects or Skills: Make a “show and tell” for your abilities and help potential employers and clients see what you have to offer. Pro tip: Post the video to your customized YouTube channel first so you can provide the title, keywords and description to aid in your search engine optimization later, then use the share link to post to your blog and social media profiles.
Video Curriculum Vitae/Resume: This is a controversial topic: Many career coaches advise against creating a video CV or resume because of the potential for a negative bias based on appearance to creep into the job-hunt equation. If one of your strengths is creatively sharing your personality and professional bona fides using video, then you are in a good place to create a video CV and have it available—possibly from your LinkedIn profile—as another resource.
Live Video: Share your tips, or go longer and offer up thoughts on current issues going on in your industry, using live video on relatively new live platforms such as Periscope, Snapchat or Facebook Live. Potential employers may be doubly impressed by your insights and your adoption of a technology that a lot of media professionals are still grappling with.

Curated Video: Have you run across a new video of a speaker who speaks presciently to your industry? Discovered a TED talk that inspires you, or might inspire others in the kind of job you’d like to obtain? You never know when your potential employer might feel a sense of connection based on the types of content you share.

A caveat: Be mindful of the types of video you share and recognize that you may turn your audience off, particularly if you tread into sensitive topic areas such as politics, religion or sex.

Something Creative: There are all kinds of video that can help you stand out as the ideal hire. If you happen to be clever and funny, you might even find a way to work your job search into an interactive social media experience like this guy.

When thinking about ways to use video to support your search, consider your intended audience, objectives and strategy, and the channels you can use to amplify your message: “Hire me!”

Part of building a campaign to find your next right next step is to get a better understanding of yourself. Would you feel better having less of your face on camera, but sharing images of your projects is no big deal? Go with that. Are you comfortable sharing your thoughts or tips? Go for it.

Even if you don’t think of yourself as a thought leader in your industry, you can still identify ways to provide value from your experience to the world around you. At the very least, you will show your potential employer that you are adept at using the latest tools and communications methods.

Topics:

Get Hired, Job Search

Networking

Marketing Professional Associations: The Best Organizations to Join

Networking groups and professional organizations for marketers, PR professionals, and communicators

By Molly Folse

@MollyFolse

Molly Folse is a marketing leader with 20 years of experience in content strategy and social media, currently serving as Director of Content and Creative at Protective Life. She has led award-winning content and digital campaigns across financial services, higher education, travel, and consumer brands.

7 min read • Originally published June 13, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

By Molly Folse

@MollyFolse

Molly Folse is a marketing leader with 20 years of experience in content strategy and social media, currently serving as Director of Content and Creative at Protective Life. She has led award-winning content and digital campaigns across financial services, higher education, travel, and consumer brands.

7 min read • Originally published June 13, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

Last updated: January 2026

Joining a professional association opens doors to valuable networking opportunities, industry training, and career advancement. The right membership can connect you with peers, provide access to exclusive resources, and add credibility to your resume.

Here are the top professional associations for marketers, advertisers, PR professionals, and communicators—along with membership costs and key benefits.

Why Join a Professional Association?

Networking – Connect with peers, mentors, and potential employers at events and through member directories
Professional development – Access training, certifications, webinars, and conferences
Industry credibility – Membership signals commitment to your profession
Job opportunities – Many associations have job boards exclusive to members
Resources – Research, templates, salary data, and industry benchmarks
Leadership experience – Serve on committees or local chapter boards

Marketing Professional Associations

American Marketing Association (AMA)

The American Marketing Association is one of the largest and oldest marketing organizations, with 30,000+ members and 70 local chapters across the country.

Benefits:

Local chapter networking events and national conferences
Professional certifications (PCM®)
Exclusive research, webcasts, and marketing resources
Templates, assessment tools, and planning guides
Leadership opportunities on local executive boards

Membership: Professional membership starts at $149/year (plus local chapter dues of $25-$75). Young professional rates are available for recent graduates.

Association of National Advertisers (ANA)

The Association of National Advertisers represents the marketing community with a focus on brand building, media, and advertising effectiveness.

Benefits:

Industry research and benchmarking studies
Training and professional development
Networking with brand-side marketers
Committees focused on specific marketing disciplines

Membership: Corporate membership (company must join); individual benefits through employer membership.

Product Marketing Alliance (PMA)

The Product Marketing Alliance is a growing community of product marketing professionals.

Benefits:

Product marketing certifications
Templates, frameworks, and playbooks
Slack community for peer networking
Virtual and in-person events

Membership: Free tier available; Pro membership with additional resources.

Advertising Professional Associations

American Advertising Federation (AAF)

The American Advertising Federation connects advertisers, agencies, media companies, and students through local clubs and college chapters nationwide.

Benefits:

Local chapter events and national conferences
ADDY Awards recognition program
Professional development and training
Advocacy for the advertising industry
College chapter involvement and mentorship opportunities

Membership: Varies by local chapter; discounted associate membership for young professionals under 32.

4A’s (American Association of Advertising Agencies)

The 4A’s is the leading trade association for advertising and marketing agencies, representing the agency perspective in the industry.

Benefits:

Agency management resources and best practices
Industry research and compensation studies
Training programs and conferences
Talent development initiatives

Membership: Agency membership (agencies must join as organizations).

The One Club for Creativity

The One Club celebrates creative excellence in advertising and design, known for The One Show awards.

Benefits:

Access to award-winning creative work archives
Networking with creative professionals
Educational programs and portfolio reviews
One Show award submissions

Membership: Individual memberships available; student and young professional rates.

Public Relations & Communications Associations

Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)

The Public Relations Society of America is the largest organization for PR and communications professionals, with 22,000+ members.

Benefits:

APR (Accreditation in Public Relations) credential
Local chapter events and national conferences
Professional development in social media, corporate communications, crisis management
Ethics standards and advocacy for the profession
Job center and career resources

Membership: Associate membership for those with less than 3 years experience: $60-$200 based on experience. Full professional membership: $260-$305/year plus chapter dues.

International Association of Business Communicators (IABC)

The IABC serves communication professionals globally, with members in 70+ countries.

Benefits:

Global Communication Certification (GCC)
World Conference and regional events
Communication World magazine and research
International networking opportunities

Membership: Professional membership approximately $300/year; student and transitional rates available.

Arthur W. Page Society

The Arthur W. Page Society is an exclusive membership organization for senior corporate communications executives.

Benefits:

Peer networking with Fortune 500 CCOs
Research on corporate communications trends
Executive-level events and conferences

Membership: By invitation; for senior communications executives only.

Digital Marketing & Content Associations

Content Marketing Institute (CMI)

The Content Marketing Institute is the leading resource for content marketing education and community.

Benefits:

Content Marketing World conference
Research reports and benchmarking studies
Online training and certification
Chief Content Officer magazine

Membership: Free content available; paid training and conference registration.

Data & Marketing Association (DMA)

The Data & Marketing Association focuses on data-driven marketing, including digital, email, and direct marketing.

Benefits:

Data and privacy compliance resources
Research on digital marketing effectiveness
Certification programs
Annual conferences and events

Membership: Corporate membership structure; individual benefits through employer.

Social Media Marketing Society

Social Media Marketing Society (from Social Media Examiner) is a membership community for social media marketers.

Benefits:

Weekly live training sessions
Private community for peer discussion
Exclusive research and guides
Discounts on Social Media Marketing World conference

Membership: Paid membership with monthly and annual options.

Specialized Marketing Associations

Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS)

The SMPS serves marketing professionals in the architecture, engineering, and construction (A/E/C) industries.

Benefits:

CPSM certification (Certified Professional Services Marketer)
Industry-specific training and resources
Local chapter networking
Annual Build Business conference

Membership: Approximately $350/year for professional members.

Association of National Advertisers B2B (formerly BMA)

The ANA B2B focuses on business-to-business marketing.

Benefits:

B2B marketing research and best practices
B2 Awards recognition program
Networking with B2B marketing leaders

Membership: Through ANA corporate membership.

American Association of Inside Sales Professionals (AA-ISP)

The AA-ISP serves inside sales and sales development professionals, with relevance for sales-focused marketers.

Benefits:

Inside sales training and certification
Research on sales development
Networking with sales professionals

Membership: Individual and corporate memberships available.

Online Communities for Marketing Professionals

Beyond formal associations, online communities offer additional networking opportunities:

The CMO Network (LinkedIn Group)

The CMO Network is a private, executive-level LinkedIn group for Chief Marketing Officers, Heads of Marketing, VPs of Marketing, and senior marketing executives leading brand, growth, and go-to-market strategy. This group is actually owned by the same company that runs Mediabistro, CognoGroup, so it’s a sister brand.

Who it’s for: Marketing leaders responsible for revenue growth, brand leadership, customer acquisition, performance marketing, marketing operations, marketing technology, and organizational design.

Discussion topics include:

Executive marketing leadership and board-level communication
Brand strategy, demand generation, and go-to-market planning
Marketing organization structure, hiring, and senior talent development
Media strategy, martech stacks, data, analytics, and AI adoption
The evolving role of the CMO and cross-functional leadership

Other Online Communities

Slack communities – RevGenius (revenue professionals), Superpath (content marketers), Demand Curve (growth marketers)
Reddit – r/marketing, r/PPC, r/socialmedia for peer discussions
Local meetup groups – Search Meetup.com for marketing groups in your city

How to Choose the Right Association

Consider your specialty – General marketing vs. PR vs. digital vs. industry-specific
Evaluate local chapters – Active local chapters provide more networking value
Check certification options – If credentials matter in your field, prioritize associations that offer them
Attend an event first – Many associations allow non-members to attend events before joining
Calculate ROI – Consider whether membership benefits justify the cost for your career stage

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best professional associations for marketers?

The top marketing associations include the American Marketing Association (AMA), the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), the American Advertising Federation (AAF), and the Content Marketing Institute (CMI). The best choice depends on your specialty—PR, advertising, digital, or general marketing.

Is it worth joining a marketing professional association?

Yes, if you take advantage of the benefits. Professional associations provide networking opportunities, training, certifications, and job resources. The value depends on how actively you participate—attending events, using resources, and engaging with other members.

How much does it cost to join a marketing association?

Membership costs vary. The American Marketing Association charges around $149/year plus local chapter dues. PRSA ranges from $60 to $305/year, depending on experience level. Many associations offer discounted rates for students, recent graduates, and young professionals.

What’s the difference between AMA and PRSA?

The American Marketing Association (AMA) focuses on marketing broadly—strategy, research, digital, brand management. PRSA (Public Relations Society of America) focuses specifically on public relations and communications. Choose based on whether your career leans more toward marketing or PR.

Are there free marketing professional groups to join?

Yes. Online communities like The CMO Network on LinkedIn, Slack communities, Reddit marketing forums, and local Meetup groups offer free networking. Some associations also offer free tiers with limited benefits, or allow non-members to attend certain events.

Do marketing certifications from associations matter?

It depends on your field and career goals. The PRSA’s APR (Accreditation in Public Relations) is respected in PR. The AMA’s PCM (Professional Certified Marketer) demonstrates marketing competency. Certifications can help with career advancement, especially when changing industries or seeking promotions.

How do I find the local chapter of a marketing association?

Visit the national association’s website and look for a “chapters” or “local” section. Most major associations (AMA, PRSA, AAF) have chapters in major cities. Local chapters typically hold monthly events and have their own membership dues in addition to national dues.

Looking for your next marketing role? Browse marketing jobs on Mediabistro.

Topics:

Climb the Ladder, Networking

Job Search

How to Build a Job Search Schedule That Keeps You on Track

#WeekendJobSearch Assignment #13: Establish a job search routine

By John Lombard

John Lombard is a content strategist and writer with over a decade of experience creating interactive and video content for brands like Apple, IBM, and Samsung. He previously worked at Mediabistro and now serves as a Client Strategist at Ceros.

2 min read • Originally published June 17, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

By John Lombard

John Lombard is a content strategist and writer with over a decade of experience creating interactive and video content for brands like Apple, IBM, and Samsung. He previously worked at Mediabistro and now serves as a Client Strategist at Ceros.

2 min read • Originally published June 17, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

Welcome to week 13, the final entry of our #WeekendJobSearch that breaks the whole job-search process into 13 totally doable to-do items.

Last week, you learned a new skill to add to your resume and LinkedIn profile.

This week, we’re helping you keep the momentum you’ve gained on your job search by setting up an easy-to-follow schedule of daily, weekly and monthly tasks.

The Weekend Job Search Assignment #13

Set up a Routine

Taking everything you’ve learned throughout #WeekendJobSearch, it’s now time to put together an action plan to keep you moving forward. Here’s how you can develop a routine.

Add these to-dos to your calendar:

Daily

If your job search goal is to review the job board and apply to one new position a day, make sure you’re sticking to this!

Review your weekly items (below) and prioritize so you can make each day as impactful as possible.

Weekly

Keep your social house in order: Stay active on LinkedIn, keep your profile up to date and share articles. Also be sure your other social channels are job search appropriate so nothing would scare off a recruiter.

Practice your elevator pitch, tweaking if necessary. And to stay sharp on your interview skills, grab a friend and conduct a mock interview.

Take a minute to set your weekly job search goals. Set something solid like applying to two jobs a day or 10 jobs a week. Don’t forget: Use our job search tracker to keep tabs on your progress and to set goals!

Monthly

Check on your resume to make sure it’s up to date. This includes any new skills you’ve learned.

Make sure you’re interview-ready. This means being sure your outfit is ready to go, and that you’re ready to look awesome in an interview.

If you’ve got the time, consider taking a monthly class. This is a great way to stay active and to show recruiters you are actively involved in your field.

Research upcoming conferences. If anything stands out, sign up.

Clean up your desktop, folders and physical documents so your job search area works for you.

We sincerely hope you found the #WeekendJobSearch to be a productive use of your weekend downtime. We worked hard to put together a program that’s manageable, actionable and that gets results.

Now go, enjoy your weekend—and good luck with the job search!

Start from the beginning: #WeekendJobSearch Assignment #1

Share your progress on Twitter: #WeekendJobSearch

Topics:

Get Hired, Job Search

Interview Tips

Why Are You Looking for a New Job?

Five totally valid responses that hiring managers actually want to hear.

By John Lombard

John Lombard is a content strategist and writer with over a decade of experience creating interactive and video content for brands like Apple, IBM, and Samsung. He previously worked at Mediabistro and now serves as a Client Strategist at Ceros.

3 min read • Originally published June 20, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

By John Lombard

John Lombard is a content strategist and writer with over a decade of experience creating interactive and video content for brands like Apple, IBM, and Samsung. He previously worked at Mediabistro and now serves as a Client Strategist at Ceros.

3 min read • Originally published June 20, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

If you’re currently employed and interviewing at other companies, you can count on being asked why you’re looking for a new job. Show up unprepared, and you could fall into the trap of trash-talking your employer simply for lack of a better response.

Ace this common question by following these five totally valid responses hiring managers actually like to hear.

1. Weave in Your Strengths

To take this tricky interview question and turn it into an opportunity to showcase your strengths, Charina L. Flores, VP of Human Resources at the Barbelo Group, has a solution: Share your long-term goals with the hiring manager, explain how your current company doesn’t provide the foundation for those goals, then describe how your strengths align with the new company.

Here’s an example:

My goal is to lead digital projects in a fast-paced agency. I love working on a creative team, thrive under pressure and have been told by my managers I excel at project management. My current company works with a small group of clients, and I’m looking for exposure to a larger diversity of brands so I can continue to hone my skills.

2. Make It Compelling, and Not About a Paycheck

For Ali Mercier, marketing content manager at The Leadership Program, the best answers are ones that focus on your career growth and passion, not ones that mention you just need work.

“Are they looking for an opportunity to grow? Have they sought out my company because of the culture and brand? Are they interested in investing in themselves by doing something they love? All of these answers sound great to my ears—as would many more,” says Mercier. “Don’t tell me you need the paycheck.”

Want even more help with your interview preparation? The counselors with Mediabistro’s Career Services can help you refine your interview skills in a one-on-one session.

3. Be a Little Obsessed With the Company

Another approach is to make it clear that the company you’re applying to is the only one on your radar. Chris Dessi, founder and CEO of Silverback Social, says all he wants to hear from a candidate is, “I’m not looking for a new job, I’m looking to collaborate with you.”

“I want to be wooed,” says Dessi. “I want them to only, and desperately, want to be associated with my agency, and my agency only.”

To go with this approach, you’ll need to take some time to learn all you can about the company, its greatest projects, related industry trends and what you can contribute. And it helps if you’re, you know, actually super passionate about working there.

4. Talk About Your Boundless Energy

Alex Twersky, career expert and Mediabistro’s own resume and cover letter writer, says to take this as an opportunity to compliment your current company on the opportunities you’ve been given to learn, grow and contribute to the team. Then, because of your unstoppable enthusiasm to grow in the field and further develop your talents, explain that you’re now seeking out new opportunities.

“The undertone of answering the question in this way is that you have boundless energy and are seeking a new outlet in which to channel it,” says Twersky. “Ultimately, this puts a very positive spin on your reasons for wanting to leave.”

5. And Remember: Don’t Talk Trash

No matter how awful your current situation may be, it’s never a good idea to speak negatively about your current or former manager.

“From an employer’s perspective, it’s always refreshing to speak to candidates that are more laid back and looking to learn new things and grow in their professional and personal lives,” says Maxwell Barna, manager of digital content and communications at RushOrderTees. “So when a candidate’s first inclination is to speak out harshly against their current employer, even if it’s totally justified, it tends to leave a bitter taste in my mouth.”

Barna says it’s important to focus on the positive reasons for seeking a new job and reminds candidates to “keep it classy and professional.”

Topics:

Get Hired, Interview Tips

Skills & Expertise

How to Keep Your Content Going During the Summer Slowdown

Because no news is bad news when it comes to keeping your posts fresh, here’s how to plan ahead

By McLean Robbins

McLean Robbins is a luxury travel editor, marketing leader, and adjunct faculty member at Georgetown University with two decades of bylines in Forbes Travel Guide, Robb Report, and Washingtonian. She is the founder of Lily Pond Luxury, a Condé Nast Top Travel Specialist agency, and previously served as VP of Marketing at MBO Partners.

3 min read • Originally published June 21, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

By McLean Robbins

McLean Robbins is a luxury travel editor, marketing leader, and adjunct faculty member at Georgetown University with two decades of bylines in Forbes Travel Guide, Robb Report, and Washingtonian. She is the founder of Lily Pond Luxury, a Condé Nast Top Travel Specialist agency, and previously served as VP of Marketing at MBO Partners.

3 min read • Originally published June 21, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

With the arrival of the lazy days of summer, many industries are entering an annual slowdown in “new news.” Conferences and breaking news events become fewer and further between and key staff takes vacation time.

But never fear: Your blog, website and social media presence don’t have to suffer. With a careful combination of planning and creativity, you can keep your content and posts fresh, even when you’re kicking back. (And if you’re looking for a content job, you can use these same pointers to keep your skills just as relevant.)

Just follow the six simple tips below.

Use an Editorial Calendar

Planning is key to get through any content slump. By using a tool called an editorial calendar, it’s easy to document when content is scheduled throughout the day, week or month and visually identify gaps, either in post frequency or in topics.

A good rule of thumb: The third week of each month, review the following month’s content, and aim to have content ready two weeks before its run date for more evergreen topics. This will give you “breathing room” in case you need to shift pieces around.

Revisit Your Old Content

Documenting your content plans are a key part of any successful content strategy or content marketing initiative. By understanding what you have, you’re more likely to be able to know what to create in the future.

Think of your documentation, often called a content audit, as your “content closet.” You may tend to wear jeans and white tops, but you don’t want too many of the same thing. It’s also important to clean and “air out” your dirty laundry.

This may mean recycling and revamping older pieces that are valuable but feature outdated information, or taking a previously visited topic and writing a follow-up piece or creating a supplemental piece of media, such an infographic, video, or slideshow. When you create new content, don’t forget to re-promote and schedule within your editorial calendar.

Use Analytics to Determine High Performers

A frequent, thorough review of your content analytics can help you identify high-performing and low-performing content, as well as optimize for future performance.

Once a month, review to identify trends; once this summer, review broader to measure seasonal and annual trends. For example, certain sites may see rises and dips in traffic around key product launches, sales milestones and events, while others are driven by “viral” content and news.

Dive deeper than just measuring unique views and time on site. Examine if certain types of content perform well—lists, for example—and if content topics, days of week or times of day work better than others. Optimize against these metrics, and continually strive to improve.

Interview Key Staff

Your on-staff subject matter experts are often untapped sources for new content. Schedule regular check-ins to get an insider’s view on what’s going on in the industry, and ask their opinion on new content.

This may also be the perfect time to ask for guest blog posts—or volunteer to ghost-write a post—from the “experts” on your team, which can serve as a great source of content during slow periods.

Think Seasonally

Keep content fresh by tying themes into seasonal events. The upcoming Fourth of July, Labor Day and the back-to-school season are great annual pegs to relate tangentially to your brand for added fun and timely content.

Know When to Take a Break

If you’ve followed the tips above, you likely already know when your brand is going to go through a slow period. Content machines function best with regular care and feeding, but, like a marathon runner resting after a big race, it’s okay to slow down the cycle every now and again.

For example, if you publish a digest of weekly news on Mondays, it’s okay to skip a week when Monday falls on a holiday, or shift the posting to Tuesday instead. If your industry slows during the summer, it may be permissible, even recommended, to reduce posting frequency during slow months as well.

Mediabistro instructor McLean Robbins is a content strategist, copywriter and digital consultant. Find her at mcleanrobbins.com.

Topics:

Climb the Ladder, Skills & Expertise

Resumes & Cover Letters

Answers to the Four Most Common Resume Questions

Keep it short, but detailed, in this quick rundown of your career

By Debra Wheatman

Debra Wheatman is a certified professional resume writer and career strategist who has helped over 11,000 executives with personal branding and career positioning. She brings more than 20 years of corporate HR experience at companies including Condé Nast and Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia.

3 min read • Originally published June 22, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

By Debra Wheatman

Debra Wheatman is a certified professional resume writer and career strategist who has helped over 11,000 executives with personal branding and career positioning. She brings more than 20 years of corporate HR experience at companies including Condé Nast and Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia.

3 min read • Originally published June 22, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

Answering the Four Most Common Resume Questions was originally published by the American Marketing Association.

Most of us receive a wide range of resume advice from co-workers, family and friends. Everyone has an opinion on the subject of resumes. How do you know who is right? Below are answers to the most common resume questions.

What Is the Right Page Length for a Resume?

The answer to this question varies based on a candidate’s job history. Your resume length will be driven by the amount of relevant content, written as concisely as possible.

Most recent graduates with some work history will have a one-page resume. An experienced candidate who has completed numerous projects and can boast a number of achievements will likely have a two-page resume.

Many scientists and academics will have multiple pages of data due to extensive patents, publications, presentations and posters. These people will have resumes that span many, many pages.

Want even more help on your resume? Get started with a FREE resume evaluation from Mediabistro’s Career Services. Our counselors and writers can help you update and upgrade your resume so you can confidently apply for the job you want.

Should I Use Bullets or a Narrative Format?

There are resume formats that are proven to foster a comfortable and quick read. Often long paragraphs or long lists of bullets causes a reader to lose interest.

It is better to start with a paragraph sharing the major responsibilities for each job, including staff count and amount of budget. The opening paragraph should be five to six lines.

Follow that narrative with a series of bullets. Up to seven bullets is ideal, so you keep the reader’s attention. Bullets are reserved for the top accomplishments and should include measured results.

Do I Need to Include All of My History?

No, it is not necessary and in many cases not a good idea to show your entire history. The current guideline is to show only 10 to 12 years of relevant history.

Your recent history is of the most interest to the reader. Also, degrees and certifications that do not support or relate to your current goal should be omitted.

Furthermore, when showing your recent history, present more detail about the current and most recent role and share fewer details as you go further back into your history.

Do I Write, “Three” or “3”?

You should write the number (3) instead of spelling the word. Resumes are written to facilitate a quick read. Oftentimes a candidate will want the numbers to stand out on the page. Using the number instead of writing the number out will help draw the reader’s attention to the actual number.

Debra Wheatman is president of Careers Done Write.

The American Marketing Association is the pre-eminent force in marketing for best and next practices, thought leadership and valued relationships, across the entire discipline of marketing. Its online publications include posts on industry trends, career advice and more.

Topics:

Get Hired, Resumes & Cover Letters

Skills & Expertise

Free and Low-Cost Online Courses to Boost Your Marketing Career

Stand out from other job seekers by taking advantage of free and low-cost online marketing classes and certifications.

By Molly Folse

@MollyFolse

Molly Folse is a marketing leader with 20 years of experience in content strategy and social media, currently serving as Director of Content and Creative at Protective Life. She has led award-winning content and digital campaigns across financial services, higher education, travel, and consumer brands.

3 min read • Originally published June 23, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

By Molly Folse

@MollyFolse

Molly Folse is a marketing leader with 20 years of experience in content strategy and social media, currently serving as Director of Content and Creative at Protective Life. She has led award-winning content and digital campaigns across financial services, higher education, travel, and consumer brands.

3 min read • Originally published June 23, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

You’ve earned a degree and have some experience under your belt, but is that enough? To make it in marketing, it’s important to stay on top of industry trends and best practices. The best marketers are always honing their skills—and thinking about what’s next.

Stand out from the rest by taking advantage of free and low-cost online marketing classes and certifications. And don’t forget to mention them on your resume and LinkedIn profile, and during your next interview.

1. Mediabistro Classes

Mediabistro offers a variety of video-based online training courses led by experts in marketing, advertising, copywriting, copy editing, social media and more.

2. Google Certifications

Google provides free certifications for Google AdWords and Google Analytics through its Google Partners program. Certification training will teach you how to use these tools in your daily marketing activities, and by earning your certification, your employer will qualify for official Google Partner status; this shows the rest of the world that you and your team are highly qualified to use these industry-leading digital marketing tools.

Each certification requires you to take one or more exams, each ranging from 90 to 120 minutes. AdWords certification is valid for one year, while Analytics certification is valid for 18 months. In addition to Google product certification, the Partners program gives agencies and digital marketing professionals access to exclusive training, research and product updates.
Cost: Free

3. American Advertising Federation
Advertising is an important component of marketing. The American Advertising Federation promotes this component through a unique network of advertisers, agencies, media companies, local advertising clubs and college chapters. They promote diversity, honor excellence and work together to help solve community concerns through networking, education and community service. Members also get the chance to keep up with the latest trends in technology, creativity and marketing through monthly professional development events.

4. HubSpot Inbound Certification

HubSpot, a marketing automation software company, offers basic certification in inbound marketing—marketing that attracts attention versus paying for it. It’s the only training HubSpot offers that’s free and open to marketing professionals who are not HubSpot clients. This is a great basic certification that will help you identify areas where you need or want to learn more. The certification is valid for 13 months.
Cost: Free

5. American Marketing Association PCM

Marketers who earn the American Marketing Association’s Professional Certified Marketer credential prove they are dedicated to staying top of their field and have mastered core marketing concepts, including marketing ethics, analysis, social media and more. To apply to take the certification exam, you should have a bachelor’s degree and two years of experience, or a master’s degree and one year of experience. The certification is valid for three years.
Cost: $525 for members; $725 for non-members (includes application fee)

6. Marketing Webinars

Plenty of industry experts and cutting-edge marketing companies offer free webinars almost daily. Some provide more value than others, and the price you pay is often having to sit through a brief sales pitch for the webinar sponsor. Frequently held around lunch time, these webinars are easy to work into your schedule (and easy to opt out of if it turns out to be a dud).

Get started by checking out Marketingprofs’ free online seminars on topics from brand management to copywriting, or twice-monthly webinars from eMarketer, an independent market research company. For search and content marketing, both Moz and Content Marketing Institute partner with other organizations to host a couple of webinars each month.

And if your company is a member of industry organizations like 4A’s, you may have access to the webinars they offer—just ask your supervisor! Follow the experts and companies you admire on social media and subscribe to their emails to stay in the know about upcoming webinars and other opportunities to learn from the best.
Cost: Free

Topics:

Climb the Ladder, Skills & Expertise

Resumes & Cover Letters

How to Make Your Resume Stand Out: Five Steps to a Brand-Focused Resume

Showcase your value—and differentiate yourself from other job seekers—with a retooled resume

By Debra Wheatman

Debra Wheatman is a certified professional resume writer and career strategist who has helped over 11,000 executives with personal branding and career positioning. She brings more than 20 years of corporate HR experience at companies including Condé Nast and Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia.

3 min read • Originally published June 28, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

By Debra Wheatman

Debra Wheatman is a certified professional resume writer and career strategist who has helped over 11,000 executives with personal branding and career positioning. She brings more than 20 years of corporate HR experience at companies including Condé Nast and Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia.

3 min read • Originally published June 28, 2016 / Updated March 19, 2026

Five Steps to a Brand New Resume was originally published by the American Marketing Association.

The best way to stand out from the competition is to show the unique value that you offer—in other words, your brand. A brand-focused resume will showcase your value relevant to the job opportunity and differentiate you from the other candidates who may have similar skills and experience.

Focus on these five elements to create a brand-relevant resume.

1. Headline

A headline on a resume is akin to a blog or newspaper headline. It is a brief five to seven-word statement that encapsulates your brand.

A great headline example is, “International Patent Attorney With Expertise in Pharmaceuticals.” A headline should be free of fluff. In other words, omit phrases such as “results-oriented,” “self-motivated” or “highly talented.” Save the valuable headline space for keywords that define your brand.

2. Profile

Also called a summary, a profile is a four- to six-line opening paragraph that puts your entire resume into context. The “no-fluff” rule applies to the profile area too.

Select your top skills and accomplishments to demonstrate your ability to excel in the target job. Consider adding an example in the profile to immediately engage your reader.

Want even more help on your resume? Get started with a FREE resume evaluation from Mediabistro’s Career Services. Our counselors and writers can help you update and upgrade your resume so you can confidently apply for the job you want.

3. Areas of Expertise

These are your top eight or 10 job proficiencies. Skip soft skills such as “communication skills” and “leadership” and list the major job functions in which you excel.

Examples may include: “regulatory compliance,” “contract negotiation” and “cross-border transactions.” These are the functional requirements you meet. Your areas of expertise help to define your brand and demonstrate your ability to perform in your target job.

4. Community Leadership

Showing your recent history of community leadership serves two functions. First, it proves your abilities in areas such as team leadership, budget control, fundraising, public relations and more. If your brand lacks leadership expertise in your paid professional experience, volunteer roles can fill that skills gap.

Second, the organizations you support tell a story of your personal passions and your dedication to charities, youth organizations or civic associations.

5. Appearance

Beyond content, the appearance of your resume says a lot about you. If you want a traditional image, select a font such as Garamond, Book Antiqua or Cambria and keep to a black and white format.

If you want to project a more creative image, use a bit of color in the heading, border or category breaks. Fonts that project a modern, sophisticated look include Verdana, Calibri and Trebuchet.

Debra Wheatman is president of Careers Done Write.

The American Marketing Association is the pre-eminent force in marketing for best and next practices, thought leadership and valued relationships, across the entire discipline of marketing. Its online publications include posts on industry trends, career advice and more.

Topics:

Get Hired, Resumes & Cover Letters

Why Join a Professional Association?

Marketing Professional Associations

American Marketing Association (AMA)

Association of National Advertisers (ANA)

Product Marketing Alliance (PMA)

Advertising Professional Associations

American Advertising Federation (AAF)

4A’s (American Association of Advertising Agencies)

The One Club for Creativity

Public Relations & Communications Associations

Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)

International Association of Business Communicators (IABC)

Arthur W. Page Society

Digital Marketing & Content Associations

Content Marketing Institute (CMI)

Data & Marketing Association (DMA)

Social Media Marketing Society

Specialized Marketing Associations

Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS)

Association of National Advertisers B2B (formerly BMA)

American Association of Inside Sales Professionals (AA-ISP)

Online Communities for Marketing Professionals

The CMO Network (LinkedIn Group)

Other Online Communities

How to Choose the Right Association

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best professional associations for marketers?

Is it worth joining a marketing professional association?

How much does it cost to join a marketing association?

What’s the difference between AMA and PRSA?

Are there free marketing professional groups to join?

Do marketing certifications from associations matter?

How do I find the local chapter of a marketing association?

The Weekend Job Search Assignment #13

1. Weave in Your Strengths

2. Make It Compelling, and Not About a Paycheck

3. Be a Little Obsessed With the Company

4. Talk About Your Boundless Energy

5. And Remember: Don’t Talk Trash

Use an Editorial Calendar

Revisit Your Old Content

Use Analytics to Determine High Performers

Interview Key Staff

Think Seasonally

Know When to Take a Break

What Is the Right Page Length for a Resume?

Should I Use Bullets or a Narrative Format?

Do I Need to Include All of My History?

Do I Write, “Three” or “3”?

1. Mediabistro Classes

2. Google Certifications

4. HubSpot Inbound Certification

5. American Marketing Association PCM

6. Marketing Webinars

1. Headline

2. Profile

3. Areas of Expertise

4. Community Leadership

5. Appearance

Juli Charkes