With endless opportunities for personal evolution, digital marketing is an in-demand career sector and a potentially lucrative profession. Digital marketing is also essential for most companies, as it helps them reel in customers and reach new audiences.
However, while being in such a dynamic career is exciting, the wide range of upskilling options can be daunting, especially if you are just starting in digital marketing. Fortunately, there are ways to get ahead. Here are some tips to help you advance your digital marketing career.
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1. Become a T-shaped marketer
As digital marketing continuously becomes holistic and integrated, adding breadth to your skill set is more important than ever. Specialists are also in demand, and you don’t want to be seen as too much of a generalist.
To have a huge advantage over your peers, work on becoming a T-shaped marketer. This is the best way to acquire the wide range of skills a digital marketing career needs. Learn the basics of link building, influencer research, SEO, and social media marketing. You can also take a few courses on your core discipline, such as a social media and digital PR degree program to improve your skills.
2. Build a strong digital presence
A broad digital presence is a core aspect of becoming a successful digital marketing professional. Most recruiters look for demonstrable skills when researching potential candidates online, so you should be as visible as possible.
First, they will look at your LinkedIn profile and Twitter feeds. They might also check to see whether you have a personal website or blog and if your work translates to their business and the skills they need. Develop a strong, professional digital presence, and ensure your social media photos and updates represent how you want to be perceived in real life. At a bare minimum, craft an attractive bio on LinkedIn explaining why you are different.
3. Build and refine your skill set
Digital marketing requires a wide range of hard and soft skills. Hard skills are necessary for every digital marketer, no matter your specific job. These skills can be considered basic features or the minimum required skills to compete in digital marketing. They include copywriting, marketing analytics and data analysis, search engine optimization (SEO), and pay-per-click advertising (PPC).
Soft skills refer to traits and attributes that can help you get along and collaborate effectively with others. They are the basics you need to become an expert digital marketing professional. Soft skills include creativity, time management, collaboration, leadership, and innovation.
4. Get regular feedback
As a junior digital marketer, your knowledge is limited, and you might struggle to bridge informational gaps. Seeking feedback from an experienced professional will help expand your knowledge and discover limitations you might not have previously noticed.
Ask your manager whether you can go for a walk and talk. The informal walk and talk can lead to more open and honest conversations. Be willing to accept constructive criticism and know what your weaknesses are. You can work on those areas or even learn new tactics to build on your strengths.
5. Stay up-to-date with industry trends
Digital marketing is a constantly evolving field, so it's important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies. Follow industry thought leaders, attend conferences and webinars, and join online communities to stay informed.
6. Get certified
There are various certifications available in digital marketing that can help you demonstrate your expertise and stand out to potential employers. Consider pursuing certifications in areas such as Google Ads, Google Analytics, social media marketing, and email marketing.
7. Build a personal brand
Establish yourself as a thought leader in your field by creating and sharing high-quality content on social media, blogs, and other platforms. This can help increase your visibility and credibility in the industry.
8. Find a mentor
Seek out a mentor in the digital marketing field who can provide guidance and support as you navigate your career. Look for someone who has experience in your desired career path and who can offer valuable insights and advice.
9. Stay positive and adaptable
Digital marketing can be a challenging and fast-paced field, so it's important to stay positive and adaptable in the face of change. Embrace new technologies and strategies, and be open to new ideas and approaches to digital marketing.
Endnote
Advancing a digital marketing career is slightly different for everyone, but each person has a chance to build the career they want for themselves. Follow these tips, develop your own plan, be passionate, and in a matter of time, you will have the momentum you require to achieve your vision.