Whether you are fresh out of university, or fancy a career change, getting a job in the fast paced land of digital marketing can be challenging. What area do I want to specialise in? Do I want an agency role or would I prefer in-house? There is a lot to consider when trying to get a job in digital marketing. In this blog, we’ll explore all these questions and some tips and tricks to help you land a job in the exciting world of digital marketing.
Figure out which area of digital marketing suits you best
Digital marketing encompasses various areas such as SEO, social media, content marketing, paid advertising, influencer marketing, email marketing and so much more. Whilst it’s essential to understand all of these elements and how they function in a business or marketing team, narrowing down your passion and niche can set you apart from others and give you a competitive edge when it comes to getting a job in digital marketing. Determine which area resonates with you the most and dive deep into the skillset required to be successful in that particular area. While you are figuring out the area that suits you best, get familiar with popular marketing tools and platforms that will help you on your journey. Regardless of which speciality you choose, I guarantee you will still need to know your way around platforms such as Google Analytics, Google Tag Manager, Social Media platforms and email marketing softwares.
Get stuck into online learning through certificates and accreditations
These courses will provide you with the foundation of knowledge needed to succeed in the digital marketing world. This will set you up to getting hands-on experience and point you in the right direction of best practices, practical solutions and how to get started. Google’s Skillshop provides some of the best free online training in all areas of digital marketing, not just those relevant to Google. Meta’s Blueprint is also a fantastic resource with more than 90 free online learning courses to help you learn the skills needed to succeed in digital marketing. The Hubspot Academy helps you to get up to speed on popular business topics with their free online courses too with many topics just taking 30 minutes to complete. By completing these courses and including them on your CV, you are showing employers you can learn on your own and setting yourself apart from the competition.
Get hands on experience
Show initiative and aim to get as much hands-on experience as you can outside of a formal job. Offer to help your hairdresser or your gym to create content and post more frequently on social media. Create videos, reels or TikToks from your most recent holiday using InShot or Capcut. Start writing a blog. Help out with your local football club or a local charity to gain hands-on experience. Think outside the box about the tasks you would be doing if you were working in digital marketing and think about how you can get experience doing those things before you even get the job. This will help you build confidence and show your future employer you are passionate and always willing to learn.
Build a personal brand online
Creating a strong personal brand is essential for getting noticed in the digital marketing job market. By building an online presence on any of the social media platforms but particularly LinkedIn, you can demonstrate your passion and expertise which goes far beyond a two page CV. Engage with industry leaders, give your opinions on the latest trends and updates and celebrate your wins. This will make you a much more desirable candidate to future employers.
Be honest and hardworking
It can be very easy to fabricate the truth in an interview, when for example you are asked if you know how to use Google Tag Manager or Google Analytics. Don’t take the easy option and say you do because in the first week of that new job, you will be caught out and it does leave a good first impression with your employer or the team you are working with. When asked difficult questions about experience and what you have or haven’t done, be honest and open. Express your eagerness to learn and hard working attitude. Most things in digital marketing can be taught, but a good attitude and a good work ethic can’t, so bring these qualities to the table when applying for jobs. Employers will be much more receptive to your honesty and will appreciate your attitude to learning.
Whilst all of the tips and tricks will set you on your way to getting a job in digital marketing, never underestimate the power of a good attitude and willingness to learn in any area. Keep learning, gaining experience, network when you can and showcase all that you can do. You will be well on your way to getting a job in digital marketing.
