If you’re looking for a career in online marketing, then there are a variety of online degrees to choose from. Not all of them are created equal, so it’s important to do your research before making a decision.

An Online Marketing Degree Does Not A Career Make

While it is true that an online marketing degree may land you a job in the field, that does not mean that it will make you successful. To assure you of this, we have compiled a list of top tips that you need to keep in mind to secure your dream job as an online marketer.

Focus On What You Can Control

If you’re reading this, then it’s a safe bet that you’re looking for ways to improve your professional standing. To that end, you need to focus on what you can control, namely, your own performance. It doesn’t matter what degree you get, you’re going to need to put in the work to learn the ropes. While it can be a nice to have a shiny piece of paper to show for all that effort, you’ll land a job regardless of your educational background if you can prove to employers that you’re competent and able to perform the functions of an online marketer.

Know What You’re Getting Into

When you’re deciding which online marketing degree to pursue, it’s important to know what you’re getting into. Do you want to learn basic website building and design? How about SEO, content creation, copywriting, or social media? Each of these areas can be broken down into specific sub-brands and specializations that a degree in online marketing may or may not include. If you aren’t sure what you’re getting into, then it may be a good idea to look for an accredited program that offers an easy transition to a job.

Is Education A Means Or A Product?

Depending on how far you want to go with your education, then the type of job that you’ll be aiming for will narrow your choices considerably. Is your goal to be a graduate, or do you plan on getting a professional degree and then finding employment? While many employers may still value a bachelor’s degree for a job in marketing, you may be better off pursuing a more specific degree. If you don’t have a clear idea of what you’re getting into, then consider the types of jobs that are available and then choose a program with the aim of securing one of those jobs.

Start A Career In Marketing

If you’re looking for a career in marketing, then you need to start by assessing your interests. While you may be tempted to pick one of the “hot” industries such as digital marketing or social media marketing, these are actually quite broad areas. To be able to succeed as an online marketer, you’re going to need to specialize in one of the following areas:

• Search Marketing
• Content Marketing
• E-commerce Marketing
• Income-generating Marketing
• Digital PR
• Social Media Marketing
• Video Marketing
• Mobile Marketing
• Analytics

Deciding which of these areas to specialize in will largely depend on your own interests and strengths. It is also important to note that you don’t have to limit yourself to just one area as you can prove competent in multiple areas through experiential learning. If you’re not sure which area interests you, then seek out help from a career counselor or counselor and talk things through. Once you’ve established a clear picture of your interests and desires, then you can begin to narrow your search to a more specific set of possibilities.

If you’re looking for a career in marketing, then it’s important to know that there are numerous options available. You don’t have to limit yourself to just one option as long as you’re competent in multiple areas. In fact, if you can, then go for a combination of digital marketing and social media marketing. Not only will this give you the opportunity to become familiar with two different areas, but it will also allow you to specialize in areas where you have a natural skill or talent. Don’t forget about the basics though, you’ll need to be able to build a professional website, write sales copy, and do basic keyword research to succeed as an online marketer.