Unlock Your Marketing Potential: The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a CIM Chartered Marketer - Is It Worth the Effort?

I didn't choose the thug life; the thug life chose me.

I've just received the news that every Chartered Marketer eagerly awaits each year. I have retained my Chartered Marketer status for another year.

Rather than a LinkedIn post, I wanted to write an article to help, guide, and inspire marketers who are thinking about starting their Chartered Marketer journey.

A Brief Overview.

When it was time to leave my military and security career behind, I knew I wanted to get into marketing or advertising. I was also always into computing, tech, and gaming, so marketing for an IT/Cybersecurity organisation was always the goal.

I left the army in 1996, keen to make my mark on the world.

Yes, in 1996, before Facebook and iPhone existed.

At the time, I read reports that people leaving the military found it difficult to gain meaningful employment. True or not, I wanted to be seen as a professional and a leader in my field.

So, after extensive travelling and working abroad, I went to start what was originally a sales and marketing career and believe me, I did it all:

• Door-to-door sales.
• Telesales.
• Media Sales.
• Business Development Manager.

My career was going well, but I noticed many "marketers" working on exciting projects. They were not qualified, and some seemed to have been just moved into a marketing role by their manager, with no experience or understanding of the basics of marketing.

This practice still happens today, and it frustrates me. Would you hire a plumber to fix your roof?

I knew I could be a great marketer but needed the edge.

My discipline came from the army and a strict upbringing, and I knew I was prepared to do whatever I needed to be a successful marketer.

Enter CIM Chartered Institute of Marketing.

The Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) is a professional body based in the United Kingdom that offers training and qualifications in marketing and related subjects.

Founded in 1911, CIM is one of the world's largest organisations for professional marketers, with over 30,000 members, including more than 3,000 registered Chartered Marketers.

Before joining CIM, I decided to get some experience and do some research as I was advised to ensure that marketing was exactly what I wanted to do.

I took the plunge after years of commercial marketing experience, attending many CIM events, and a few career changes (it's never too late to start your marketing journey).

When I joined CIM, I joined on the MCIM grade because I had many years of experience.

Then, years later, In 2017, I was elected to FCIM.

I was selected as the Ambassador for Creative, Chartered Marketer, and ultimately the Vice Chair of the CIM North West board in 2019.

CIM press release: Aaron Hayes appointed vice chair.

In 2020, I was awarded the Unsung Hero Award for services to CIM in the North West region.

The membership grades at CIM

• ACIM - Associate Chartered Institute of Marketing.
• MCIM - Member Chartered Institute of Marketing,
• FCIM - Fellow Chartered Institute of Marketing - Elected by Peers.

Fellow Grade with CIM.

Achieving Fellow (FCIM) status is the highest grade of membership within CIM. It is reserved for marketers with at least 15 years of senior strategic experience.

To become a Fellow, you must be nominated and elected by your peers and demonstrate your significant contributions to the marketing profession.

So why did I decide to write an article on Linkedin?

I have had many conversations over the years about my CIM membership and involvement, and the three questions I get more than any others are:

1. How do I become a Chartered Marketer?
2. Does it cost anything?
3. Is it worth the effort?

I will answer those questions and provide more information and insights in this article.

If you need more details, this article will link to the CIM website, CIM articles, and other resources on the web.

My main goals have always been to champion and inspire marketers and celebrate their success. Earning the Chartered Marketer status is a lot of work but worth it for any marketer wanting to elevate their career.

Let's get started, and remember:

If I can do it, you can do it too, and it doesn't have to take 25 years.

Are you ready to put in the work?

Becoming a Chartered Marketer with the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) is a prestigious achievement that signifies a high level of expertise and commitment to the marketing profession.

Becoming a Chartered Marketer with the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) is a great way to advance your career. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Become a Graded Member: You must first be an Associate (ACIM), Member (MCIM), or Fellow (FCIM) of CIM. This depends on your experience and qualifications in marketing.
2. Complete Two Years of CPD: Engage in Continuous Professional Development (CPD) for two consecutive years. This involves logging at least 35 credits per year through activities like attending courses, events, and reading industry materials.
3. Pass the Chartered Marketer Assessment: After completing two years of CPD, you must pass the Chartered Marketer Online Assessment. You may be exempt from this assessment if you hold a CIM Level 7 qualification.
4. Maintain Your Status: Once you achieve Chartered Marketer status, you must continue to complete CPD every year to maintain it.

Achieving Chartered Marketer status enhances your credibility and opens up new opportunities in your marketing career.

While being a Chartered Marketer and a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) offers many benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:

• Cost: Membership fees and the cost of continuous professional development (CPD) can be significant. This includes fees for courses and exams and maintaining your Chartered status.
• Time Commitment: Achieving and maintaining Chartered status requires a substantial time investment.
• Membership Fees: You must be a graded member of CIM, which involves an annual membership fee. The cost varies depending on the membership level (Associate, Member, or Fellow).
• CPD Costs: Engaging in Continuous Professional Development (CPD) activities may involve costs, such as attending courses and events or purchasing industry materials.
• Assessment Fees: There will be a fee if you need to take the Chartered Marketer Online Assessment. However, you may be exempt from this assessment if you hold a CIM Level 7 qualification.
• Tuition Fees: There will be tuition fees if you are pursuing CIM qualifications through an Accredited Study Centre. These fees can vary depending on the centre and the specific qualification.
• Additional Costs: There might be other incidental costs, such as travel expenses for attending events or courses.

Other things to consider:

• Perceived Value: Despite the prestige, some professionals feel that Chartered status in marketing is not as widely recognised or respected as in other professions like accountancy or engineering.
• Pressure to Maintain Standards: There is an ongoing expectation to uphold high professional standards and continuously improve your skills, which can be demanding.
• Limited Immediate Benefits: For some, the immediate benefits of being Chartered may not be as tangible, especially if their current role or employer does not place a high value on the designation.

None of the above stopped me, and it should not stop those who want to attain Chartered Marketer Status.

Key Benefits:

Here are some key benefits of being a Chartered Marketer and a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM):

1. Professional Recognition: Achieving Chartered status is a mark of excellence and professionalism in the marketing field. It demonstrates your commitment to maintaining high standards and continuous professional development.
2. Career Advancement: Being a Chartered Marketer can enhance your career prospects. It can make you more attractive to employers and clients, potentially leading to higher-level positions and increased earning potential.
3. Networking Opportunities: CIM membership provides access to a vast network of marketing professionals. This can be invaluable for sharing knowledge, finding mentors, and discovering new job opportunities.
4. Continuous Learning: CIM offers a range of resources, including webinars, courses, and workshops, to help you stay updated with the latest marketing trends and practices. This continuous learning can help you stay ahead in your career.
5. Exclusive Resources: Members have access to a wealth of marketing resources, including industry reports, journals, and practical guides. These resources can support your day-to-day work and strategic planning.
6. Mentorship Programs: CIM offers mentorship programs where you can receive guidance from experienced marketing professionals. This can be particularly beneficial for career development and navigating complex challenges.
7. Credibility and Trust: Membership in a respected professional body like CIM can enhance your credibility with clients and employers. It serves as a testament to your skills and dedication to the marketing profession.
8. Global Community: CIM has a global presence, allowing you to connect with marketing professionals from around the world. This can provide diverse perspectives and insights, enriching your professional experience.

Let's Talk about CPD.

Continuing Professional Development. (CPD)

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is a crucial aspect of maintaining Chartered Marketer status with the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM). Here's a detailed look at what it entails:

CPD Requirements.

Chartered Marketers must complete 35 CPD credits annually. These credits can be earned through various activities, including:

• Formal Learning: Includes qualification, training, and e-learning, and the number of credits you can earn from these activities is not capped.
• Professional Activity: Activities such as job promotions, attending exhibitions, and contributing to professional journals. Credits from these activities are capped at 50% (17.5 credits) of the total annual requirement.
• Practice-Based Learning: On-the-job training, work shadowing, and projects outside your usual role. These activities also have a cap of 50% (17.5 credits.)
• Self-Directed Learning: General reading, research, and informal networking, such as social media contributions and blogging. Credits from these activities are capped at 25% (8.75 credits.)

Reflective Statements:

Members and Fellows, including Chartered Marketers, are required to submit at least four reflective statements each year.

These statements should reflect on the learning outcomes from your CPD activities and how you plan to apply this new knowledge in your professional practice.

CIM Member Portal.

The CIM Member Portal is an essential tool for members. It allows you to manage your CPD and much more.

It allows you to:

• Record and Track: Log all your CPD activities and track your progress throughout the year.
• Access Resources: Find a range of learning materials, exclusive webinars, and guides to support your professional development.
• Submit Reflective Statements: Easily submit your reflective statements and ensure you meet the annual requirements.

By actively engaging in CPD, Chartered Marketers demonstrate their commitment to staying current and effective in their profession, which is highly valued by employers and peers alike.

Ensure your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is relevant to your role. This is crucial for maximising its benefits.

CPD Strategies to set you off on the right path.

Here are some strategies to help you align your CPD activities with your professional responsibilities and career goals:

1. Identify Key Competencies.

Start by identifying the key competencies and skills required for your current role and future career aspirations. This can include technical skills, industry knowledge, and soft skills like leadership and communication.

2. Set Clear Objectives.

Define clear, specific objectives for your CPD. Ask yourself what you want to achieve through your professional development. For example, you aim to improve your digital marketing skills or gain a deeper understanding of market research techniques.

3. Create a CPD Plan.

Develop a CPD plan that outlines the activities you will undertake to achieve your objectives. This plan should include a mix of formal learning (e.g., courses and certifications) and informal learning (e.g., reading industry publications and attending webinars).

Regularly review and update your plan to ensure it remains relevant.

4. Seek Feedback.

Regularly seek feedback from your peers, supervisors, and mentors. They can provide valuable insights into areas where you might need further development and suggest relevant CPD activities.

5. Reflect on Learning.

After completing each CPD activity, take time to reflect on what you have learned and how it applies to your role.

This reflection can help you identify any gaps in your knowledge and plan future CPD activities accordingly.

6. Use the CIM Member Portal.

Utilise the CIM Member Portal to access a wide range of resources tailored to marketing professionals.

The portal offers tools for tracking your CPD activities, accessing exclusive webinars, and finding practical guides that can directly support your role.

7. Stay Updated with Industry Trends.

Keep abreast of the latest trends and developments in your industry.

This can help you identify emerging skills and knowledge areas that are becoming increasingly important for your role.

By following these strategies, you can ensure that your CPD activities are relevant and impactful, helping you stay proficient and competitive in your field.

Some useful links:

• Be a Chartered Marketer | CIM.

https://www.cim.co.uk/membership/chartered-marketer-status/.

• Chartered Institute of Marketing Qualifications.

https://mmclearning.com/wp-content/uploads/files/cim-qualifications-guide.pdf.

• Frequently Asked Questions | Qualifications | CIM.

https://www.cim.co.uk/qualifications/faqs/.

• Associate (ACIM) | CIM Membership.

https://www.cim.co.uk/membership/associate/.

In Conclusion.

My CIM membership is highly valued for the career opportunities it has provided me. The Chartered Marketer status holds me accountable and demonstrates my commitment to maintaining my current marketing skills.

Becoming a Chartered Marketer with CIM means joining a global network committed to marketing excellence, offering unmatched resources and professional development opportunities.

No matter where you are in your marketing career, achieving a Chartered Marketer grade is a mark of professionalism.

However, as with many aspects of life, your effort determines the reward. Therefore, the value of a CIM membership varies from individual to individual.

While there are many competent marketers without Chartered status, I have yet to encounter any poor marketers who have attained it.

Thanks for reading! Best of luck on your marketing journey. If you’re aiming for Chartered Marketer status, commit, get involved, and see it through—it’s totally worth it!