Do you like connecting with people on Instagram and Facebook? Do you often find yourself sharing innovative videos on YouTube? What if, you could do it full-time and get paid for it? Welcome to the world of Digital Marketing. It covers all the online tactics that a company uses to promote and build its product or service.
The times have changed. And so have the marketing strategies employed by companies to target their audience. Everyone has a smartphone now. The digital marketing industry is growing fast. If you are someone who loves to be online, follow the latest trends on social media, and keep up with new apps, a career in digital marketing may be perfect for you.
Here are 10 tips to help you kick-start your career in this lucrative and glamorous industry.
1. Understand Social Media
As a digital marketing executive, you'll be expected to come up with ideas to connect with your target audience on various social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. Knowing the basics like how to create a Facebook page, linking a video with an Instagram story, or starting a conversation on Twitter will help you create effective marketing campaigns.
2. Network
Learn from experienced professionals in the digital marketing industry. Create a LinkedIn profile and connect with senior and mid-level digital marketing executives. Do a Google search to find the most prominent digital agencies and professionals.
3. Stay Updated
Keep up with the latest digital trends. Right from what is trending on Twitter right now to the latest filter on Snapchat. Digital marketing executives need to stay updated to create marketing campaigns that connect with their digital audience.
4. Find a Mentor
Reach out to leading digital marketing managers. Work on your ideas, create a mock marketing strategy for brands, and seek their feedback.
5. Build Your Online Presence
If you want a career in digital marketing, you must be active on various digital platforms and know how you can use it to promote a product. For e.g. What kind of engagement/contest ideas can increase the conversation around your brand on Twitter?
6. Take Online Courses
There are many marketing management courses available online. The free online management course from IIM B will help you gain an insight into the industry and boost your resume.
7. Learn Basic Coding
HTML is the most commonly used coding language to develop web pages. Now, it is not mandatory, but knowing some basic HTML will help you stand out and make a good impression on your potential employer.
8. Start Blogging
A simple YouTube search will throw up many tutorial videos on how to start a blog. There are several free blogging websites available. You can choose any. Blogging will provide you with an opportunity to share your unique marketing perspective
9. Know the Metrics
Know how the success of a digital marketing campaign is measured and reported. Look at sample performance sheets. Learn the basics of Google's Partner Program. It's free.
10. Decide on Agency v/s Brand Team
Think about your strengths and the kind of environment that suits you. Narrow down your job search accordingly. An in-house brand team will have a focused approach, whereas an agency will need you to handle many brands at once. Consider what suits you before applying.
Digital marketing is exciting, challenging, and an industry where you'll never get bored!