To the untrained eye, digital marketing might seem like an extremely specialised industry which it’s tough to break into – especially if you’re switching careers in mid-life.
But actually, although disciplines like Web Development are highly technical and require years of training, the sector is so varied and diverse that it’s probably possible to adapt existing skills like writing or project or people management in order to take up a new and exciting role in digital.
With that in mind, here are five ways to get a break in digital marketing.
1. Internships
The 10 companies with the best summer internships, according to current interns
If you’re willing, a work placement in a digital agency or in-house digital marketing department is an excellent way to test the water ahead of committing to a new career.
You can look for digital marketing internships on Indeed and, although pay might either be minimal or consist solely of expenses, the experience you’ll gain will be invaluable. Furthermore, if you impress your temporary employers, it might even lead to being offered a permanent position when one becomes available.
2. MOOCs
MOOCs (Massive Online Open Courses) can be found on practically any subject and while the quality varies, some are offered by bona fide educational establishments and are of a high quality.
Lots of digital marketing MOOCs are available and they may provide you with the foundation for more formal study – check out sites like mooc-list.com to find out more.
3. Video training
The 5 best digital marketing courses for your digital success this year
Video skills are currently highly sought-after in the digital marketing industry, so sharpening up yours is one way of gaining a foothold.
Take a course like Made On A Mobile and you’ll learn how to shoot, edit and distribute professional level videos on your phone, with no need for a Hollywood budget. Sharing original video content on social media platforms and creating explainer videos to embed in websites allow companies to connect with customers, so any expertise in this area will probably be attractive to hiring managers.
4. Search engine training
When it comes to search engines, Google is the currently the undisputed global champion, so taking advantage of the free training the organisation offers on topics like analytics, ads and YouTube is a no-brainer.
Employers will appreciate your efforts and Google qualifications are respected across the digital marketing sector, so they’re certainly worth pursuing in your spare time. You can study at your own pace and, as you’d expect from a tech giant, resources like animated videos make learning as lively and inspirational as possible.
5. Online degrees
Do I need a degree to get into digital marketing?
A formal higher education qualification is still one of the most reliable ways to migrate careers.
And universities like Anglia Ruskin Distance Learning offer full Digital Marketing undergraduate degrees which you can study in your own time and they provide graduates with all the specialist skills necessary to take their place in this cutting-edge sector.
It’s never too late to get your break in digital marketing – as these five tips prove.
That’s our list! Please share your digital career tips in the comments section.