If you’re searching for a new challenge in 2020, you’ve probably considered online marketing. The digital landscape is changing, and traditional marketing jobs are becoming obsolete. However, even in these challenging times, there are still opportunities for those who want to work in digital marketing.
The pandemic has laid bare the inefficiencies in the current digital marketing model, and it’s given rise to a new breed of marketing professionals: digital marketers.
This change was inevitable. The digital sphere has always been growing, and this evolution is being driven by consumer behavior and preferences. People are now connected to the internet for longer, research online activities in greater detail, and prefer digital solutions over traditional methods.
The Growth Of Online Marketing
While traditional marketing has always been about reaching a large audience and engaging with them, the goal has been to sell a product and convert that audience into customers. This strategy worked well in the pre-pandemic world, since people were still going to the shop and getting in line to buy a new car, house appliance, or pair of shoes.
However, during the pandemic, people are seeking connections, community, and information rather than material goods. This is changing the way we will all approach marketing, and it’s opened up plenty of jobs in online marketing.
What Will You Need?
To start your career in online marketing, you will need a solid foundation in digital marketing. Fortunately, there are a variety of courses and educational resources available online, which make it easy to gain the knowledge you need, even during your working hours.
For instance, you could earn a Certificate in Digital Marketing through the International Marketing Institute (IMI). This is a globally recognized, accredited degree that places you in a strong position to enter the field. With this certificate, you will gain the knowledge needed to become a successful digital marketer. You will learn how to measure the impact of your work, optimize marketing campaigns, research consumer behavior, and implement marketing strategies. You will also be able to choose your specialization, such as SEO, digital marketing for B2B, or market research.
If you have a genuine interest in marketing, you may consider exploring the Online Marketing Bachelor’s degree through Johnson & Wales. This program is ideal for those who are looking to further their education and gain in-demand job skills. With this degree, you will study the theory and practice of marketing strategy, marketing research, and digital marketing. You will explore key concepts such as marketing analytics, marketing performance, and marketing measurement. Moreover, you will gain the industry knowledge needed to enter the field.
Where Will You Work?
After you complete your education, you will be able to enter the field with a strong foundation. However, finding a job in digital marketing won’t be easy, since there are already plenty of online marketers looking for work. You may consider looking for a job at a marketing agency, in-house for a company, or even start your own consultancy.
As the role of marketing within an organization changes, the way we will all approach marketing job searches changes with it. Before the pandemic, many firms will consider your work experience and qualifications to determine your earning potential. However, in these challenging times, employers are looking for people with a technical background, certifications, and experience in digital marketing.
What Sets You Apart?
To stand out from the crowd, you will need to distinguish yourself through your unique set of skills, knowledge, and qualifications. To enter the field with a bang, you may want to consider researching and taking the Certified Digital Marketing Associate (CDMA) exam. This is a global certification that will place you in a stronger position to find a job in the field. The exam consists of 25 multiple choice questions and covers a variety of topics, including SEO, marketing analytics, and digital marketing strategy. Moreover, successful completion of the CDMA exam also qualifies you for the Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP) credential.
Where Do I Go From Here?
Once you are qualified and employed in digital marketing, your next step is to gain experience. The best way to do this is by building a portfolio of work. To gain in-demand job skills and kick-start your career in digital marketing, you could consider exploring freelancing. As an independent contractor, you will be able to choose your own hours, set your own prices, and provide your own transportation to and from work. This is a great way to learn on the job and prove yourself to employers.
However, if you are looking for a new challenge, you could consider applying for a job at a marketing agency or in-house at a company. With these options, you will have the opportunity to gain invaluable experience through mentoring and developing professional relationships with senior marketers.
On a final note, while the job outlook for online marketers is positive, it can still be considered a cut throat industry. Therefore, be prepared to compete for jobs, build a powerful network, and make plenty of contacts. Moreover, as a freelancer, you will have the opportunity to gain experience and multiply your income. However, you will need to be ready to negotiate and close deals.