Marketing is a competitive field that can be hard to break into if you don’t have a degree. But thanks to the wonders of the internet, there are plenty of ways to get started in digital marketing. Here are 7 ways that you can break into the Marketing industry without having a degree:
1. Take courses
Whether these are short courses at your local college or online courses, take as many Marketing courses as possible. I was introduced to Marketing in university- it was one of my electives- but when it came time to me to study it on it’s own, I chose to go with the Digital School of Marketing. A Marketing degree isn’t always required for you to pursue a career in Marketing. You can always take courses in something related such as Business, Communications or Graphic Design.
2. Do an internship
Internships are a great way to gain experience and build your network. Just be warned that sometimes internships can be unpaid or you can be paid very little. I do believe that the experience gained from an internship is invaluable but times are tough and it’s difficult for most people to manage with unpaid internships. This is a great option if you’re still a student.
3. Get certified
Certifications are a great way to show that you have Marketing skills. Udemy has courses on everything from Digital Marketing and SEO to Graphic Design and Copywriting. Some of these are also free. Having certifications shows potentials employers that you are serious about getting a job in the field. Lots of people say that they want to get into Marketing but do not put in the effort.
4. Start a blog
This is my favourite option (since this is how I got my job). A blog is a great way to demonstrate your fit as a Marketer. It shows that you are able to take initiative and make something happen on your own. A well-written blog shows off your writing skills. It’s a win-win. Just be sure to update it on a regular basis
5. Listen to podcasts or read books
Listen to podcasts on marketing or read books. This is an excellent way to immerse yourself in industry news or trends. This is also a relatively cheap way to increase your knowledge. Get yourself a library subscription, pop in to the library and get familiar with the business section. Another hack is if you prefer to own the books, Bargain Books always has sales on their non-fiction reads.
6. Connect with others in the field
Use social media (LinkedIn is great with this) to connect with people who are already working in Marketing. If you have already decided which roles you’re interested in, follow people who currently have that job title. Reach out to them and ask how they got started or if they have any advice. Speaking as someone who works in Marketing, nothing makes us happier than discovering others who are interested in Marketing and eager to learn.
7. Get a job in a similar field
I started off as a Customer Care consultant and worked on social media before realizing that I wanted to work in Marketing. Many of the ideas that I came up with as a Customer Care consultant worked better in the Marketing space than in the Customer Care space. By getting a job in a similar field you’d gain experience and have a unique mindset when you do get your foot in the door.
You don’t need a degree in digital marketing to get a job in the field. There are many ways to learn the skills you need, and if you’re motivated enough, you can even make your own way into this exciting industry. Good luck!