AI and automation have moved from the realm of science fiction to become essential tools in today’s marketing field. According to harvard business review, AI has the potential to dramatically amplify key functions of marketing, from understanding consumer preferences, to matching them with the right products and services, to effectively incentivizing purchases. As a result, the demand for marketing AI and automation skills is skyrocketing. A study by IBM Institute for Business Value reveals that executives predict that nearly 40% of their employees will need reskilling in the next three years, driven by the impact of AI and automation.
Businesses of all sizes want to harness the power of AI and automation to streamline operations and interact more effectively with their customers. A recent study of McKinsey predict that AI could add up to $4.4 trillion to the global economy by 2030, with marketing the biggest beneficiary.
These technologies promise to revolutionize the industry, from customer segmentation to advertising targeting. Yet despite their widespread adoption and the growing demand for skilled AI and automation professionals, more educational resources are still needed to prepare tomorrow’s marketers for today’s digital realities.
The educational roadblock
Companies demand employees with these skills, and students and employees must have access to high-quality educational resources to learn about these technologies. According to HubSpot66% of business owners and managers have already hired at least one employee to implement new AI technologies or maximize the utility of existing AI processes.
The rapid adoption of these technologies has outpaced the availability of quality educational programs. Academia and the professional world are scrambling to catch up, leading to a talent shortage. In a recent survey on the barriers to adoption of artificial intelligence in marketing by Marketing AI Institute, respondents were asked: “Which of the following do you consider to be barriers to adopting AI in your marketing?” Choose all that apply. » The most important barrier cited was the need for more education and training, with 64% of respondents identifying this as a barrier.
There are a number of benefits to investing in marketing AI and automation training. First, it can help businesses stay ahead of the curve and remain competitive. Second, it can help students and employees develop the skills they need to succeed in the modern job market. Third, it can help create a more diverse and inclusive workforce in the marketing sector.
Where to learn more about AI and marketing automation
If you are a student or employee interested in learning more about AI and marketing automation, there are a number of resources available to you. Here are some suggestions:
- Online course: There are a number of online courses available such as Google Cloud which offer AI and marketing automation. These courses can provide a comprehensive overview of these technologies and teach you how to use them to improve your marketing campaigns.
- Tutorials: There are also a number of tutorials available online that can teach you specific skills related to AI and marketing automation. For example, IBM offers tutorials on using AI to segment your customers, create personalized content, and target your ads.
- Training camps: Bootcamps are short-term, intensive programs that can teach you the skills you need to start a career in AI and marketing automation. Bootcamps typically cover a wide range of topics, including data science, machine learning, and marketing strategy.
- University and college courses: Several universities and colleges, including Texas Christian University, where I teach, now offers marketing AI and automation courses. If you are a student, you may want to consider taking one of these courses.
- In-house training: If you’re an employee, you may want to ask your employer if they offer in-house training on AI and marketing automation. Many companies now offer this type of training to their employees.
As AI and automation continue to advance at a breakneck pace, educational programs must catch up. By bridging today’s education gap, future marketers can equip themselves for a radically changing industry, helping businesses and their staff not only adapt but excel in the digital age.