Starting out in the ever-changing industry that is marketing, can be challenging yet an incredibly exciting process. Whether you’ve just graduated or you’re changing sector, wedging open the door to the world of marketing can be a little daunting and the team at Spotlight Recruitment have put together 5 ways to make this feel a little less overwhelming.
- Do your homework and focus in on your motivation
The marketing field is broad and there are plenty of specialities to choose from. Whether you’re interested in digital, social media, communications, or copywriting, it is important that you do your homework in the different areas and find out what each focus entails. After you have had a look at the different types of roles, your best bet is to figure out what excites you the most and to define your motivation.
- Research requirements and make the next step
As soon as you know what kind of role you have your eye on, you can begin to research companies and create a list of the frequent requirements that they are asking for. Taking a look at job ads and the LinkedIn profiles of people within those roles, are a great way for you to define the skills that you may and may not have. Whilst experience is one of the best aids for developing your skills, there are plenty of free courses that a Marketer can take to highlight their passion for learning and the ever-changing nature of the digital world. Google Analytics, HubSpot Academy, and SEMrush Academy offer popular free online courses that you can take to boost your CV and support your job applications. Continued studying looks impressive to employers and shows commitment and willingness to learn new skills.
- Expand your network and adapt your CV
Your CV will most likely be the content an employer sees first, so it is incredibly important that it is formal, well-written, and informative yet not too long. If you are just starting out in the marketing sector, it is unlikely that you will have a ton of relevant experience, so think about how university courses, previous work experience, additional qualifications, and extra-curricular activities demonstrate your employable skills. Your LinkedIn profile can play a brilliant role when looking to get your foot in the door, as a professional, up-to-date, and fully optimised profile can separate you from the competition and make it easier for employers to find out a little bit more about you. LinkedIn is a great place to network and find out about new opportunities, so getting into the habit of making regular connections with people in your field is key. Whilst it is not always about who you know, many Marketers often find roles advertised by mutual connections and with over 740 million people using LinkedIn, it is key that you get on board and start connecting!
- Do not be afraid of asking for help
Don’t let pride get in the way of your professional growth! As a junior Marketer it is likely that you will have a few questions and as nobody is born with all the required skills, it is important to ask for help and prioritise your training and development.
- Recognise the importance of continued learning
As the marketing industry is forever changing, every Marketer needs to be well-equipped with a passion for learning. Working in marketing, you will continuously develop your skillset, tackle new challenges, and re-define the best new practices.
Finding your way as a junior Marketer will not always be plain sailing, but by following these 5 tips, you are on the right path to securing and succeeding in your first marketing role! Whether you are a junior Marketer looking for a new role or a business looking to onboard a talented marketing, digital, or communications specialist, reach out today to see how Spotlight Recruitment can help.
NICOLA MONGON is the MD of Spotlight Recruitment, specialists in marketing, digital, and communications recruitment since 2008. Read our 5* Google reviews from candidates and clients to find out more. If you would like to discuss hiring plans or find out more about us, you can reach Spotlight at 020 3008 4254 or info@spotlightrecruitment.com
