How to Get a Job in Digital Marketing

Oh, how times have changed. 

It seems like it was only yesterday when many of us still felt insecure about transacting or buying stuff online. But due to major advancements in technology, we’ve adapted—now we probably couldn’t imagine what life would be like without easy access to connecting with friends, ordering food, or even getting a job—all online. 

The increase in e-commerce stores, remote working and online learning also increased other online transactions, search engine usage, reviews, vlogging, social media engagement, and consequently, the demand for digital marketing. 

What is Digital Marketing?

Digital marketing, otherwise known as online marketing, is a way of selling and promoting products, services or advocacies using digital technology. These can be through social media, online advertising, email subscriptions, or in-app promotions—basically through any digital channel.

Do Digital Marketers Get Paid Well?

Aren’t you asking the right questions! The answer is yes. In Canada, the average digital marketing entry-level job can pay $43,711 annually. That’s about $4,900 more than the national average for most entry-level jobs.

How to Get Into Digital Marketing

If you’re just starting out, you might want to choose a subspecialty to focus on first. Then, you can learn new skills as you go. Here are some of the subspecialties you can start with:

• Digital advertising (mobile, in-app, display and pay-per-click advertising) 
• Content marketing (social media marketing, blogs and vlogs, mobile marketing, newsletters, email marketing)
• Affiliate marketing
• Influencer marketing
• Search engine optimization (SEO)
• Digital marketing analytics

Once you start, it’s easier to learn more digital marketing skills as every one of these subspecialties either overlaps or is connected with another function. Here are some other ways you can enhance your resume in order to get a job in digital marketing:

1. Update Your Skills

After you’ve identified a niche you’re interested in, start educating yourself on the basics of digital marketing. You can do that by taking free lessons online or by enrolling in online courses that will certify your knowledge after completion of classes, exams and certain requirements.

You can also enhance your learning with mock projects that will give you an actual feel of the role. Mock projects will allow you to apply the lessons you have learned and get you more acquainted with the tools of the trade.

Your mock projects can also be used to create a beginner’s portfolio. This should help your prospective employers understand your thought process, strategic ability, and potential. If you can show that you’re a progressive and proactive employee, they might consider hiring you, even if you have less experience than another candidate.

2. Gain Relevant Experience

Yes, we know that it can be difficult to find a company that will hire a total newbie. But you’d be surprised at how many companies are willing to train fresh graduates and career shifters. If you have studied digital marketing concepts and have gotten a certificate, then chances will even be better for you!

However, if you find it difficult to land a digital marketing job, you can always start with similar jobs to help you gain experience. Similar roles that progress into your chosen niche are great entryways into digital marketing.

For example, if you want to venture into digital marketing analytics, you can apply for a sales analyst role. Since many companies today also sell online, being an analyst will expose you to e-commerce terms and metrics that will prepare you for a more digitally-focused role. When you apply, note the job title of your potential boss. That should also give you an idea if that position will get you to your digital marketing career goal faster than other vacancies.

3. Accept New Challenges

If you’re employed and not ready to leave your job, volunteering to help in assignments related to digital marketing is like getting free training. So if your employer needs extra hands on some projects, take advantage of the situation and offer to help. Your future self and your employer will thank you!

4. Flaunt Your Other Skills

Marketing is a dynamic field; it loves innovation and creativity. It appreciates game-changing ideas and unique executions.

So, if you have other skills to show off, share them! Sometimes, the best ideas are the weirdest, and they come from unexpected places. Your previous experience might offer great insights that can help your future or current employer improve their digital marketing strategy.

Use Rich Networks Like Ad Culture

There’s tons of how to get into digital marketing career tips online. One of the best ways to break into the business is to connect with individuals and organizations. Those with relevant connections will increase your odds at finding the right job.

A company like Ad Culture can connect you to employers looking for digital marketing talent. But unlike other recruiters, Ad Culture specializes in digital marketing recruitment. 

Despite that, real humans, not bots, will read your application. And if there’s an opportunity, we’ll help polish your already amazing resume and connect you to an employer looking to work with someone like you. 

All you have to do is submit your resume. Are you ready? Let’s find your dream job!