Digital marketing and social media marketing are two buzzwords that have been dominating the world of marketing for quite some time now. With the rise of technology and social media, businesses are shifting towards digital platforms to reach their target audience.
As a young professional looking to grow your career in the marketing industry, it’s essential to understand the difference between digital marketing and social media marketing and choose the right career path. This article aims to provide valuable insights into digital marketing vs. social media marketing and help you make informed decisions about your career growth.
Digital Marketing vs. Social Media Marketing: Covering the Basics
Digital marketing and social media marketing are two distinct branches of the broader field of marketing.
In simple terms, digital marketing is a comprehensive term for advertising products or services using digital channels such as search engines, websites, mobile apps, and email.
Social media marketing, on the other hand, involves promoting brands or products via social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube.
Digital Marketing vs. Social Media Marketing: Differences
There are fundamental differences between digital marketing and social media marketing that determine which channel is most appropriate to use depending on your goals.
One major difference between the two is that while social media marketing primarily targets users of specific social media platforms with ads or content about products or services offered by a business, digital marketing reaches out to a broader audience using various channels like email campaigns and mobile applications.
Digital Marketing vs. Social Media Marketing: Advantages
One key advantage of digital marketing is its ability to reach out to a wider audience beyond just one platform while still targeting specific groups based on demographics and interests. This helps businesses increase their brand visibility in more places than just social media alone.
On the other hand, social media marketing enables businesses to leverage highly targeted campaigns that allow them to focus on specific market segments that are more likely to be inclined towards their product or service category.
Digital Marketing vs. Social Media Marketing: Usage
Digital Marketing:
- Email Campaigns
- Mobile Applications
- Web Analytics
- Search Engine Optimisation
- Affiliate Advertising
- Pay-Per-Click Advertising
Social Media Marketing:
- Facebook Advertising
- LinkedIn Advertising
- Instagram Influencer Partnerships
- Twitter Advertising
- YouTube Advertising
Digital Marketing vs. Social Media Marketing: Career Opportunities
Digital marketing and social media marketing careers offer diverse job roles with unique responsibilities.
- In digital marketing, some of the popular job titles include SEO analyst, digital marketing manager or specialist, content marketing manager or specialist, and PPC executive.
- On the other hand, in social media marketing, popular job titles include social media strategist or specialist, community manager, and content creator.
Industries hiring for these roles vary widely and can range from e-commerce to healthcare to hospitality to entertainment to finance. With the rise of digital technologies across all major industries in India today, the demand for professionals with expertise in digital vs. social media marketing is at an all-time high.
Companies are constantly on the lookout for individuals who possess knowledge in both fields as well as those who specialise in one particular area.
Salaries and Job Potential
Professionals working in digital marketing vs. social media marketing careers can expect competitive salaries, which vary based on experience levels and skill sets possessed.
- A fresher starting out in digital marketing can expect to earn between INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, whereas an experienced digital marketing manager can earn anywhere between INR 10-20 lakhs per annum.
- Similarly, professionals in social media marketing can expect salaries ranging from INR 2-4 lakhs for entry-level roles and up to INR 15–25 lakhs for managerial positions.
As the demand for skilled digital marketers and social media marketers continues to grow in India, the job potential within these fields is immense. Various reports indicate that digital marketing vs. social media marketing will continue to remain highly relevant in the years to come, with a growing demand for professionals who have expertise in both areas.
To understand salary ranges for different job roles refer to this table:
Career growth opportunities within both fields are plentiful as well. Professionals can switch jobs across industries or move up the ladder within their respective company hierarchies with additional experience and certifications.
Education and Certification Options
Academic degrees related to digital and social media marketing include MBAs or specialised master's programmes that cater specifically to those looking for a career in marketing.
Additionally, some universities also offer undergraduate courses focused on digital marketing as a core component of business degree programmes.
Various certification courses are also available for professionals looking to upgrade their skills or specialise in a specific area of digital marketing or social media marketing. These courses range from:
- Google Ads Fundamentals Certification
- Social Media Certification Programmes
- Advanced Content Marketing
- Email Marketing
- Web Analytics
Upskilling Opportunities and Industry Growth
Staying up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in digital marketing vs. social media marketing is crucial for professionals looking to stay relevant in their respective fields.
Upskilling opportunities are available across multiple platforms, with online courses, workshops, seminars, and conferences being some of the most popular options.
The industry growth potential for both digital marketing and social media marketing is vast as more businesses leverage digital channels to connect with customers and drive sales growth. Additionally, emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning are further driving the need for skilled professionals in these fields.
FAQs
1. Is social media marketing more popular than digital marketing?
Both fields are popular, but they serve different purposes. Social media is part of digital marketing. Digital marketing encompasses all forms of online marketing, including search engine optimisation (SEO), content marketing, etc.
2. Can I work in social media and digital marketing together?
Yes! Many companies require professionals who can manage both aspects of their online presence.
3. What basic skills do recruiters look for while hiring for social media marketing jobs?
Strong communication skills, creativity, analytical skills, knowledge of data analytics tools, and experience running campaigns are essential.
4. Can I pursue a digital marketing career without a degree?
Yes! A degree can be helpful, but it's not essential if you have the necessary knowledge and skillset.
Both the digital marketing and social media marketing fields are lucrative and in demand and offer exciting opportunities for personal and professional growth. The key to success in either field is a passion for creativity, problem-solving skills, flexibility, adaptability, and a willingness to learn.
Whether you choose digital or social media marketing as your career path, WIZR can provide you with the guidance and resources you need to succeed.
