How to Kickstart Your Career in Digital Marketing
“Can you share tips to land my first digital marketing job post-graduation?” This is a query I often encounter.
Navigating the marketing industry today can seem like a daunting task, with its apparent fierceness and heightened competition. Interestingly, I encountered comparable challenges when I graduated in 2017. Here's a lesser-known fact: my transition from retail to a full-time position took over a year, and, as a spoiler alert, it didn't unfold in my initially desired fields of journalism, PR, or marketing.
Reflecting on this journey with the benefit of hindsight, there are undoubtedly strategic moves I would make to accelerate the process of securing my first job in digital marketing.
So, what changes would I make if I could rewind my journey?
Stay Informed with Industry News:
Whether you stay updated by reading online marketing magazines or scrolling through freelancers' Instagram posts (think Pretty Little Marketer or Girls in Marketing), it's a valuable pursuit. Given the dynamic nature of digital marketing, showcasing industry knowledge during interviews, discussing recent campaigns, and sharing content on platforms like LinkedIn becomes a strategic advantage.
Leverage LinkedIn Beyond Job Applications:
LinkedIn isn't just a job application platform; it's a comprehensive professional showcase. Employers now scour profiles to understand your potential beyond the CV. So, spend time optimizing your profile. Consider it from the perspective of your dream employer—does your profile picture align with someone they'd hire? If not, make adjustments. Don't copy others; authenticity matters. Infuse your personality, achievements, and career aspirations.
To attract attention, connect with industry professionals, engage with their content, and personalize your outreach. Reach out to hiring managers directly, expressing genuine interest and offering additional information about your qualifications. Embrace LinkedIn as a social networking site, sharing a mix of career-related and personal content, remembering the adage: people buy from people.
Create Your Opportunities:
My blog played a pivotal role in securing my initial marketing role. Starting it post-university, as an extension of my final project, proved crucial. While unemployed, the blog allowed me to continually hone my writing skills and showcase my ability to manage schedules and motivation levels. Consider your blog or similar ventures to showcase your skills, especially if freelancing aligns with your aspirations.
In hindsight, I wish I had embraced freelancing earlier. In today's landscape, abundant resources can guide you, and various social platforms facilitate client connections. If your sights are set on a marketing agency for your first post-university job, know that founders and team leaders often value an entrepreneurial spirit.
If you feel I've overlooked valuable advice for new graduates entering the digital marketing world, join the conversation by sharing your insights in the comments below!
More on High Flying Design
Ready to go launch as a freelance digital marketer? Here’s some tips on creating a great business name
