Unlock Success: A Beginner’s Guide to a Career in Digital Marketing
Brian Halligan once remarked: “It’s not what you sell that matters as much as how you sell it!” (1) All of us have bought something after coming across an ad on either Instagram or YouTube. The marketing industry overall has undergone a massive change in the last decade. The situation is such that ignoring digital marketing is akin to having a business, but not telling anyone about it. As a result, India’s digital marketing spending is growing by 30% every year (2). The sector is expected to overtake traditional television advertising in 2024. In other words, individuals have numerous opportunities to build a successful career in digital marketing. Let’s see how to start a career in digital marketing, examine the key criteria, and explore potential paths to success.
What is Digital Marketing?
The first step in developing a career in digital marketing is to understand the discipline. It refers to the use of online platforms, digital channels, and technologies to promote products, services, or brands. In short, it involves crafting strategies to leverage digital tools and reach potential customers for sales. Here are its key components:
1. Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Optimizing content to rank higher in search engine results.
2. Social Media Marketing: This refers to the use of social media platforms like Instagram, X, etc., to promote products or services.
3. Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising: You float online ads on websites and pay a fee when users click on the ad subsequently.
4. Influencer Marketing: Influencers help promote a product or service to their audience which is usually trusting of them.
5. Data Analytics: Tools like Google Analytics enable you to monitor website traffic, and campaign performance, and measure ROI.
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Roles and Responsibilities After a Career in Digital Marketing
There are a lot of paths on offer if you opt for a career in digital marketing.
Let’s check out some common roles:
- Digital Marketing Manager
- SEO Specialist
- Social Media Manager
- Data Analyst
- Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO) Specialist
- UX/UI Designer
Many of these roles are responsible for a wide range of tasks. However, these tasks are some of the core duties of everyone associated with digital marketing:
1. Strategy and Planning
The stage in which firms formulate plans to achieve business objectives. You analyze industry trends and set Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to track campaign effectiveness consequently.
2. Content Creation
Another important responsibility is to develop various forms of content. For example, blog posts, articles, videos, and infographics are a few popular elements.
3. Social Media Management
It is one of the common answers to the question: Which field is best in digital marketing? You create and run campaigns on platforms like Meta, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. It not only helps you interact directly with followers but also fosters meaningful relationships.
4. Paid Advertising
You have to look after pay-per-click campaigns on platforms like Google Ads. You also create and place banner ads on websites.
5. Analytics
One of the most critical tasks involves monitoring everything from website traffic and user behavior to conversions. You also prepare reports on the performance of campaigns.
6. SEO (Search Engine Optimization)
You identify relevant keywords to target and optimize website content, structure, and metadata. Furthermore, you need to build backlinks and improve website authority.
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Essential Skills for a Career in Digital Marketing
“When creating content, be the best answer on the internet,” according to Andy Crestodina, who runs a famous content agency. The only way to be at the top is to hone your skills. But which of these skills gets you to the top? The following are crucial for a career in digital marketing:
1. SEO
A digital marketer must know how to optimize content, research keywords, and build backlinks, because it is critical for improving website visibility and driving organic traffic.
2. Content Creation
The core of digital marketing is creating engaging content. For instance, you must know how to write blog posts, design visuals, produce videos, and craft relevant social media updates.
3. Understanding of Social Media
Your knowledge of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok, etc., is indispensable. It helps you choose the right avenue for brand promotion, audience engagement, and conversions.
4. Data Analysis
Digital marketers need strong analytical skills to interpret data and make data-driven decisions. You can use analytics tools to monitor KPIs and track ROI. You must also understand metrics like Click-Through Rates (CTR), conversion rates, and bounce rates.
5. Creativity
You must know your way around graphic design tools like Adobe Photoshop, Canva, or Figma to help create visual content for digital platforms.
6. Communication Skills
You should possess excellent written and verbal communication skills if you are to write compelling messages and collaborate with teams and stakeholders.
7. Project Management
You need organizational skills to plan, execute, and manage digital marketing campaigns effectively. There are tools like Trello, Slack, and Asana that help keep track of tasks and deadlines.
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How Do I Begin My Career in Digital Marketing?
An aspiring digital marketer requires a combination of skills, knowledge, and determination for a successful career in digital marketing. Here are some tips to help you on your journey:
1. Gain a Strong Foundation
You can consider obtaining a degree or certification in digital marketing. Many platforms like Emeritus offer a wide range of online courses to enhance your skills.
2. Develop Essential Skills
We have already discussed some key skills that you need in your arsenal. You need a mix of technical, creative, analytical, and communication skills.
3. Build a Portfolio
You can get a headstart by taking up personal projects and showcasing your skills and creativity. Consider freelancing on platforms like Upwork to gain experience and build a client base. You can also seek internships at digital marketing agencies to gain experience.
4. Network and Build Relationships
You should increase your exposure by participating in conferences and webinars to connect with other professionals. Be a part of online forums and social media groups to discuss industry trends and share knowledge.
5. Track Industry Trends
Always be aware of what is happening in the industry. Follow the latest developments and trends by reading books, industry news forums, attending conferences and trade shows, etc.
6. Specialize in a Niche
Companies are always looking for someone with an X factor. Many of you wonder: Which field is best in digital marketing? There is no one-size-fits-all. Determine which area of digital marketing interests you the most and focus on developing skills in your chosen niche.
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What are the Job Opportunities in Digital Marketing?
“The best marketing doesn’t feel like marketing,” as per Tom Fishburne. Digital marketers are paid handsome amounts to tell stories and engage the audience. But, is digital marketing a good career? The field will continue to be on an upward trajectory, thanks to the rise in internet users, smartphones, and data consumption.
The rise will also increase the demand among companies for skilled candidates as they look to ramp up their digital strategy. The future is bright for people looking to choose a career in digital marketing.
It is important to remember that salaries depend on a range of factors such as experience, location, company size, and industry. However, there is strong growth expected in the coming years across India.
The average salary of a digital marketing executive stands at ₹2,91,154 in a year whereas a digital marketing manager earns an average of ₹9,00,000 annually. The salaries are also likely to go up as supply outstrips demand. In conclusion, the question “Is digital marketing a good career?” calls for an answer reflecting a positive job outlook.
Develop Your Career in Digital Marketing With Emeritus
The digital landscape will continue to grow from pillar to pillar, paving the way for skilled digital marketing professionals to make a mark. Companies will look for someone with a firm grasp of the fundamentals of digital marketing. Emeritus offers a range of digital marketing courses in association with the world’s best institutions that cater to everyone, from novices to advanced learners. The instructors will equip you with the knowledge and tools relevant to the industry. The curriculum is designed to cover digital marketing basics and detailed strategies to help you gain credible insights. Enrol in one of these courses at Emeritus and make a splash as a competent digital marketer.
By Mitaksh Jain
Write to us at content@emeritus.org
Sources:
- https://e9digital.com/20-best-digital-marketing-quotes/
- https://www.ipsos.com/sites/default/files/ct/publication/documents/2023-12/BE%20Ipsos%20State%20of%20Marketing%202023-24.pdf
- https://in.indeed.com/career/digital-marketer/salaries
- https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/india-digital-marketing-manager-salary-SRCH_IL.0,5_IN115_KO6,31.htm?clickSource=searchBtn
