Digital Marketing Beginner - Seeking Skills and Certifications for Growth?

Ans: Looking at your years of experience and your CTC, I would say you are slightly underpaid at your current experience levels. After 8 years of experience, the average income of professionals in India is likely to be at a CTC of INR 12-15L. Sales & Marketing is one of the best domains that you are in and your experience is a bonus. From your current role, moving to Digital Marketing won't be a big challenge, and hence, I would recommend a few specific steps for you:
(a) Take up internal projects within your current organisation or at a smaller venture in Digital Marketing to build on your profile
(b) Pick up industry certifications with Google or Facebook to enhance your skill sets
(c) Actively work on your own social media profile and be more proactive in the domain of marketing
(d) If you want to build credibility in the market and amongst recruiters, it's critical to pursue an outcome-focused certification or a post-graduate program that will round you up & will also make your CV stronger (e) Within Digital Marketing, know what role you are looking for; is it Social media and Content Marketing, Performance Marketing, Marketing Analytics, Branding and Communications, or a PR professional, etc. and accordingly, aim for the profile that has the closest overlap with your current role. I would recommend doing a session with a career counsellor who can also guide you on your queries and can give you more personalised advice depending on your specific background. Additionally, upGrad gives you the option of completing an online course in Advanced Certificate in Digital Marketing and Communication with MICA Ahmedabad without having to quit your job along with 4 specialisation tracks (you could choose one based on your interests or skill competencies) to enhance your foundation.

Ans: Dear Mr.Sanjay

Great future. Please go ahead. Along with course take up paid/un-paid freelance job as well.

All the best.

Regards

Ans: Starting a career in digital marketing can be exciting, as it is a dynamic and evolving field with a wide range of opportunities. Here are some steps you can take to begin your journey in digital marketing:

1. Educate Yourself:
- Learn the basics of digital marketing, including key concepts such as SEO, social media marketing, content marketing, email marketing, and paid advertising.
- There are numerous online courses, certifications, and resources available. Platforms like HubSpot Academy, Google Digital Garage, and LinkedIn Learning offer valuable courses.

2. Build a Strong Online Presence:
- Create profiles on professional networking platforms like LinkedIn. Highlight your skills and any relevant coursework or certifications.
- Start a personal blog or contribute to existing blogs to showcase your knowledge and passion for digital marketing.

3. Gain Practical Experience:
- Apply your knowledge through real-world projects. This could involve managing social media accounts, creating content, or running small ad campaigns.
- Internships or entry-level positions can provide hands-on experience and exposure to different aspects of digital marketing.

4. Specialize in a Niche:
- Consider specializing in a specific area of digital marketing that aligns with your interests and strengths. Specializations could include SEO, social media management, email marketing, or content creation.

5. Build a Portfolio:
- Document your projects and achievements in a portfolio. This can be a powerful tool when applying for jobs, as it demonstrates your practical skills and experience.

6. Stay Updated:
- Digital marketing is constantly evolving, so stay informed about industry trends, tools, and best practices. Follow reputable blogs, attend webinars, and participate in relevant online communities.

In terms of job opportunities and salary, the scope for digital marketing professionals is quite vast. Here are some common roles in digital marketing:

1. Digital Marketing Specialist/Coordinator
2. Social Media Manager
3. Content Marketing Manager
4. SEO Specialist/Analyst
5. Email Marketing Specialist
6. Digital Marketing Manager
7. PPC (Pay-Per-Click) Specialist
8. Analytics Manager

Salaries can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the specific role. Entry-level positions may start at a lower range, but as you gain experience and expertise, salaries tend to increase. On average, digital marketing professionals can earn competitive salaries, and there is often room for growth and advancement within the field. Keep in mind that the digital marketing landscape is diverse, and opportunities exist within companies, agencies, and as freelancers.

Ans: You need to have skills in digital marketing to start the agency. Start with 1-2 clients, without worrying too much about the fee. Deliver results and then use them as a reference case to market to others. Slowly build more clients and your internal team. Also inch up your fee with each successful assignment till you get to the optimal/ market level

Ans: Yes. However it depends upon:

(1) Which Institute you join? Quality of Teaching There.
(2) Whether Job Guarantee is provided by the Institute.
(3) Level of your knowledge about the Digital Marketing.
(4) How do you keep upgrading your skills?
(5) Practical Experience you gain &
(6) Your Networks on LinkedIn and/or personally.

All the BEST for Your Bright Future.

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