Getting an entry-level digital marketing job can be daunting, particularly if you do not yet have relevant experience. However, you don’t have to have experience to start out with a job. There are some things you can do that can boost your marketability in order to eventually land your dream job in digital marketing.
Getting More Confident in Your Skills
When you are starting out, you might be tempted to compare your candidacy with other people. But there will always be someone with better grades, more experience, or more connections. Don’t fall into the trap of feeling discouraged. Instead, know that there are many jobs out there, and all you need to start out is one. Having a great internship, perfect grades, and good experience are still no match for strong communication skills and a great personality. Still, there are also ways to improve your other skills.
You might consider getting a graduate MBA degree to stand out more in job applications. You might consider a program that focuses specifically on marketing. You can take out a student loan from a private lender in order to cover the cost of the degree. It is a great way to invest in higher education and can take you one step closer to landing that dream job.
Picking a Career Path
There are many different aspects of digital marketing, and you will need to think about what you want to get out of a career so you can choose the right path. Consider what you enjoy doing and what you are good at. It is also good to determine whether you might work better by yourself or with others. Of course, when you are getting an entry-level job, you can’t afford to be too picky. Still, try to match your strengths, interests, and skills to the positions you are applying to. You might consider becoming a digital marketing specialist, where you will work with paid search, search engine optimization, and social media.
Starting as a Freelancer
If you are unable to find a job in your field, you might look into freelancing. It is also a great way to get some hands-on experience while still in school. Try to focus more on getting experience than earning a lot of money. Your focus should be on helping others to grow their online presence so you can start to build a portfolio.
To find clients, think about small business owners you might know who could use some help. Many business owners don’t have as many skills in this area, and they might appreciate the assistance. Or you might have a friend who owns a shop in town but does not have a social media account. You could get them started with advertisements on social networking sites. No matter where you go to find your clients, you should track the analytics and return on their investment. It is also important to use known strategies in the process. Not only will you help small businesses, but you will also be building your portfolio.