Are you feeling stuck in your career and unsure about what you want to do? Do you have multiple interests and passions but can’t seem to find the right career path that combines them all? If so, then you might be able to relate to my story. Growing up, I had a lot of hobbies and interests, from hip-hop, piano and violin classes to travelling the world and learning new languages. But after finishing high school, I felt rushed to find a career path and ended up studying Musicology and Russian literature in my Bachelor’s degree. Although I enjoyed my studies, I felt that I needed both a creative outlet and something practical for me to feel empowered and fulfilled.
That’s when I discovered digital marketing, a field that allows me to use my analytical and creative skills to help businesses and individuals reach a wider audience.
If you’re looking for a career that blends creativity and data analysis, digital marketing may be the perfect fit for you. As the world becomes increasingly digitized, businesses are relying on digital marketers to help them reach and engage with their target audiences. The job outlook for digital marketing professionals is very good, with overall employment projected to grow 10% from 2021 to 2031.
So, what does it take to become a successful digital marketer? Here are a few steps to consider:
Study Digital Marketing
You don’t need a degree in digital marketing to pursue a career in the field, but you do need to have a strong understanding of the principles and practices of the industry. There are numerous online courses and certifications available, such as Google’s Digital Garage, Hubspot Academy, Coursera, and Udemy. Some of these courses focus on specific aspects of digital marketing, such as SEO, content marketing, social media, or email marketing. You may also find it helpful to have a basic understanding of HTML, coding, advertising principles, website management, and analytics. These skills will come in handy when you start developing your own digital marketing strategies.
Build a Digital Marketing Project Portfolio
As with any creative industry, having a portfolio of your work can be a key factor in securing a job in digital marketing. Consider starting a blog or social media account to showcase your skills in content creation, SEO, and copywriting. It’s also a good idea to create a website or online portfolio to show potential employers your understanding of online marketing principles, best practices, and ability to write persuasive copy.
Network… a lot.
Networking is essential for success in any industry, and digital marketing is no exception. Start connecting with industry professionals, such as digital marketing professionals, content creators, web designers, and other people you’ve worked with. Also, take advantage of any professional development activities, such as conferences and training workshops. These events will help you build your contacts list, gain valuable industry knowledge, and get your foot in the door.
Keep Learning
The world of digital marketing is constantly evolving, so do stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies in the field by reading industry publications, attend webinars, and take courses in new areas such as data analytics or web development, as well as ad optimisation and design to further hone and improve your skills. Finally, look for internships or volunteer opportunities that will give you real-world experience in the industry.
If you’re interested in pursuing a more formal education in digital marketing, there are a variety of master’s programmes available around the world. After self-learning for almost a year, I decided to pursue an M.Sc. in Digital Marketing Strategy from Trinity College Dublin – and I don’t regret it. The networking aspect of doing a Masters is truly unmatched, and talking with others about Marketing is a crucial skill to develop to feel more confident in the workplace later on. Finally, look for internships or volunteer opportunities that will give you real-world experience in the industry.
So, to conclude, digital marketing is a dynamic and exciting field with ample opportunities for growth and career development. By taking the steps outlined above, you can position yourself for success and make a positive impact on the businesses and customers you serve.
Good luck with your journey ☀️
