How to Kickstart Your Career in Digital Marketing
“How can I land my first digital marketing job after graduation?” Its a question I get asked all the time.
Today’s digital marketing industry can feel like a high-speed game, with fierce competition and constantly shifting trends. Funny enough, I faced similar challenges when I graduated back in 2017. Here’s a little secret: it took me over a year to make the jump from retail to a full-time marketing position—and spoiler alert, it wasn’t in the field I originally planned.
Now, with the benefit of hindsight, I see exactly what moves I’d make to fast-track my way into the digital marketing world if I could do it all over again. Here’s how you can get started on a stronger path:
1. Keep Up with Industry News:
You can’t overestimate the power of industry knowledge in a field as fast-paced as digital marketing. Whether you’re reading marketing sites or following creators on Instagram (think Pretty Little Marketer or Girls in Marketing), staying informed will give you the upper hand. In interviews, your knowledge of recent campaigns and industry shifts helps you stand out. Plus, sharing what you learn on LinkedIn shows potential employers you’re serious and passionate about the field.
2. Leverage LinkedIn Like a Pro
LinkedIn isn’t just a place to click ‘apply’ on job listings; it’s your professional portfolio, and more employers are using it to get a real feel for candidates. Think about it: does your profile photo, summary, and content showcase someone a marketing manager would want to hire? If not, it’s time for a revamp.
Pro tip: Connect with professionals in the industry, engage with their content, and don’t be shy about personalising messages to hiring managers. LinkedIn is a social platform, so balance professional updates with a sprinkle of your personality and achievements. Remember, people hire people, not profiles.
3. Create Your Own Opportunities:
My first marketing job? I credit it to my blog. Starting one after university kept my writing sharp and gave me a way to show employers my skills in content creation, consistency, and self-motivation. If you’re serious about marketing, a personal project—a blog, podcast, or freelance gig—could be the key to standing out.
These days, there are so many resources to help you start freelancing or side hustling. If you’re set on a digital marketing agency job, know that many agency founders love seeing entrepreneurial spirit. It’s a sign of creativity and initiative, qualities they want in new hires.
Have Tips of Your Own?
If there’s advice you wish you’d known before stepping into digital marketing, drop your tips in the comments below!
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