In his CM Snapshot, Calvin Chow says he pursued the DMSC CM program to ensure his skills were adequate for the marketing profession. He discusses time management, implementing SMART goals for the long term, and how the CM program changed his outlook on developing broader strategic frameworks.

Skills on Par

I chose to pursue the CM designation to ensure that my marketing strategy and financial analysis skills are on par with the industry standard. The designation also demonstrates to employers, clients, and peers that I have achieved high expertise and adhere to ethical standards.

Removing Obstacles

As a marketing professional laid off due to downsizing, the DMSC CM program allowed me to further my studies without the financial burden. The main obstacle I faced was finding the time to commit to an intensive 7-week program while working a part-time job. By attending office hours, I was able to understand the course requirements without wasting valuable time.

SMART Goals

I now approach my goals with frameworks, such as setting long-term vs. short-term goals. With long-term goals in mind, I search for short-term goals that best align with my vision. I ensure that all my goals are ‘SMART’ to ensure I am setting clear and attainable goals.

Frameworks

The DMSC CM program has changed my outlook from focusing on day-to-day marketing tactics to understanding and developing broader strategic frameworks. These frameworks helped me understand how marketing aligns with business objectives and the organization’s long-term vision/mission.

Career Tips

The online career tips sessions have been the most valuable for tailoring my approach to job hunting. The tips given during these sessions were instantly applicable and helped me communicate effectively and succinctly.

Confidence Boost

The DMSC CM program has allowed me to progress in my career, giving me more credibility in taking on higher-profile projects and positions. Working on the Summit case study boosted my confidence in strategic thinking to the point where I can develop and implement effective marketing campaigns that drive long-term success.

 

 

 

Calvin received a scholarship that covered his Chartered Marketer designation through the DMSC program. This scholarship program is funded by the Government of Canada and Upskill Canada, powered by Palette Skills.