The best thing about digital marketing as a career, however, is that there is no linear entry path into this area. Although this may make things easier, you don’t need a degree in marketing to get a job in this industry. Without a degree, digital marketing recruiters at larger companies might not even look at your resume. Many of them have marketing graduates who don’t have the confidence or skills to focus on digital technologies, says Erica Staceys from Scout. A bachelor’s degree in marketing remains the traditional approach to kick-start a student’s career.
These side projects are not only intended to gain practical experience. Corey Haines from Hey Marketers adds that “a good side project sets you apart and gives the interviewer more confidence in who you are. When it’s time to apply for jobs, never underestimate the power of existing contacts to become America’s next top digital marketer. Instead of eating alone (or with the same people), use this time to meet with other digital marketing experts. In fact, in today’s job market and during job interviews, some employers require that you have a degree in order to even apply for a job.
A small opportunity is all you need to get a foot in the door and land your first job in digital marketing. You can tell future employers all about your digital marketing skills, but showing them is much more effective. If you prefer to go at your own pace and have more hands-on marketing experience, it may be in your best interest to seek a certificate. Regardless of where you do your internship, Joe Edgley from Amplified Marketing, this hands-on experience is “by far the most valuable tool you can bring to the job.
A marketing portfolio showcases your best work — and proves to potential employers that you’re qualified for the digital marketing role you’re applying for. Employers also recognize that while your degree may specialize in digital marketing, you also likely have broad business knowledge in various functional areas, such as finance, accounting, search engine optimization, social media, and public relations. Tom Feltham adds that Software Path “often meets candidates who are very focused on one area of digital marketing, often on social media. Whether you’d rather go down the path of the online digital marketing certificate or the path of a college degree, both are wrong.