Digital Marketing is growing at a staggering pace as we make our way through 2024. Occupying one of the top 10 spots on Coursera’s Job Skills of 2024 Report, the field expects to experience a 6% growth increase between 2022 and 2023 – faster than the average for all occupations.
Mixing this rapid growth with digital developments from years previous, including the rise of TikTok to the implementation of AI, there is an undoubted buzz surrounding digital marketing in today’s workforce.
To make sense of the noise, we sat down with one of Celarity’s expert consultants, Nicole Lee, for a question-and-answer blog uncovering the ins and outs of the evolving digital marketing field. Nicole is a true expert in the space, having worked with brands ranging from Medica to Nexthink, as well as boasting years of freelance experience. Nicole’s insights are a goldmine for those looking to decode the digital marketing field, and we’re ecstatic to share her knowledge! So, grab your favorite snack and enjoy as we dive into everything digital.
What Does Your Background in the Digital Marketing Space Look Like, and What Parts of the Field Make You Feel Most Energized?
I started my journey in the digital space while working in Human Resources. My first digital exposure was driving and maintaining my organization’s intranet site. This prompted me to research breaking into the digital space and ultimately brought me to my current UX/UI Designer role.
On a day-to-day basis, I feel energized by the problem-solving part of digital marketing. A lot of research goes into finding the best solution – whether it be looking at others in the industry, seeking real-world inspiration, or digging into my own imagination. On top of that, decoding the collaboration between existing projects and products drives me, as well as working with other designers or creatives.
It’s a fantastic experience to be part of the bridge that connects humans with technology in a way that is easy to understand and beneficial for both sides.
Which Steps Would You Recommend to Someone Building Digital Marketing Skills?
Practice repetition! While various clients and agencies may require different ways of doing things, keep sight of your process. I’ve had different parameters in each of my roles, but I always review my preferred design process to avoid losing sight of my own philosophy. This can also set you apart from the next digital marketer, and it can help bring unique perspectives to your team.
I’ve also found that persistence will be your best friend, especially at the beginning of your digital marketing journey. It’s a field filled to the brim with outstanding creatives and marketers, but everyone has their own niche, and you’ll find yours. Being open will bring you opportunities you otherwise may not have sought out!
How Do You Recommend Professionals Adapt to the Constant Evolution in Digital Marketing?
First and foremost, keep a close eye on digital marketing trends by diving into social media content dedicated to the field. Integrate accounts into your day-to-day scrolling, and be intentional when interpreting the information online. Once you’ve done this, keep the conversation going with friends and colleagues in the digital space.
Along with that, developing foundational skills can be a massive help in adapting to the market. Being fairly quick to learn new software is crucial, especially with how often new programs are released or updates are made for existing ones. It’s essential to be open to change – whether in the form of trends, best practices in the market, or receiving feedback on your work as digital marketing evolves.
Any Other Pieces of Digital Marketing Advice?
There are many institutions and courses out there that you can use to your advantage. SkillShare, UDemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning provide learning certificates and are packed with information – just to name a few. As a plus, you can add these experiences to your resume and expertise for future projects.
If you can’t find freelance projects, make your own! Take the time to work on something you’re passionate about because that will inspire you the most. Have fun with all the seasons you find yourself in during your career, and give yourself the patience to find your place in the field.
The Digital Marketing Bottom Line
Nicole describes exactly the beauty of digital marketing – there is an endless possibility of paths that lead to the field and a never-ending number of career steps that can come from the digital industry. Whether it be social media marketing, website design, paid media, or UX/UI – the digital field is snowballing, bringing a range of opportunities along with it. It’s a great place for professionals to grow and make a difference for clients and consumers.
At the end of the day, remember that you are an expert for a reason! Clients look to you to bring their end goals to life, so stay true to yourself while finding a mesh between your professional preferences and client needs. And, if you’re breaking into the digital marketing field, use the transferable skills you’ve developed in previous experiences to create methods that support your knowledge and expertise. When you find the sweet spot, you’ll be well on your way to succeeding in the digital marketing field!
Celarity Is Here To Help
For over 31 years, we’ve had the honor of helping talented Marketing, Creative, and Digital folks find their dream career steps, and we’d love to do the same for you! Whether you’re curious about joining the field or have completed hundreds of projects, we’d love to connect and work together to find your next landing point. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today!
