Are you a young professional looking to kickstart your career in the fast-paced world of digital marketing? With the growing importance of online presence for businesses, digital marketing has become an essential skill set across all major industries.
In this article, we will guide you step-by-step on how to become a successful digital marketer in India. From education courses to job roles and potential salaries, we will provide comprehensive information to help you make informed decisions about your career path.
Understanding Digital Marketing
Digital marketing refers to the use of digital channels such as search engines, websites, social media platforms, email, and mobile apps to promote a brand's products or services.
It includes various techniques like search engine optimisation (SEO), pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, social media marketing, email marketing, and content marketing.
Scope of digital marketing
The scope of digital marketing in India is vast, and the industry is growing at an exponential rate. According to a report by Dentsu Aegis Network, the Indian digital advertising industry is projected to grow at a CAGR of 32% between 2020 and 2024.
Skills required to be a digital marketer
To be a successful digital marketer, you must possess certain skills such as creativity, analytical thinking ability, communication skills, and technical knowledge. Apart from these skills, other key competencies that employers look for include:
- Proficiency in Google Analytics and other analytics tools
- Knowledge of various digital marketing channels and their respective metrics
- Understanding website design principles
- Familiarity with content management systems (CMS)
Job Roles and Potential Salaries for Digital Marketers
Digital marketing offers several job roles that require different skill sets. Some popular job roles within the industry include SEO analysts, social media managers and executives, PPC specialists and managers, and content marketers.
Skills required for different job roles include:
1) SEO Analyst: In-depth understanding of SEO practises, including keyword research and on-page optimisation strategies; experience working with Google Analytics
2) Social Media Manager: Strong writing and communication skills; an ability to create engaging social media posts across multiple platforms
3) PPC Specialist: Proficiency with Google AdWords platforms; experience creating paid search campaigns
4) Content Marketer: Excellent writing skills; experience with copywriting and editing; knowledge of SEO best practices.
Salaries in digital marketing
Entry-level salaries for digital marketing roles range between ₹3-5 lakhs per annum. The salaries, however, increase with experience and expertise. For instance, a social media manager with 3–4 years of experience can earn anywhere between ₹5-8 lakhs per annum. Similarly, a digital marketer in Mumbai will earn more than one in Kolkata.
Career Paths for Digital Marketers
There are several career progressions available within the digital marketing industry. Young professionals can start in entry-level positions such as digital marketing interns or SEO analysts and advance to senior-level positions such as digital marketing managers or directors of marketing as they gain experience and upskill regularly.
To progress in their careers, young professionals should focus on building expertise in specific domains of digital marketing, such as SEO or PPC advertising. Furthermore, they could also consider specialising in sub-domains like email marketing or content marketing to stand out from the crowd.
For those interested in entrepreneurship, the digital marketing industry offers exciting opportunities to start their own agency. Starting a digital marketing agency requires a combination of technical skills, creativity, and business acumen.
Education and Certification
While a degree isn't necessary to become a digital marketer, having one can certainly enhance one's job prospects within the industry. A bachelor's degree in marketing or communications is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in digital marketing.
Apart from degrees, there are several certification programmes available for young professionals looking to upskill themselves regularly. These courses allow candidates to learn new techniques and tools essential for their profession.
Upskilling opportunities include various online courses and boot camps offered by various online ed-tech portals. It's essential to stay updated on new technology and channels as the digital marketing landscape evolves constantly.
Industry Growth in Digital Marketing
The Indian digital marketing industry is rapidly expanding. According to a recent report by Statista, the Indian digital advertising industry is expected to reach ₹53.9 crore by 2024. The growth rate is primarily due to increased internet and smartphone usage across India.
Furthermore, businesses need digital marketing professionals who can help them increase their online presence and customer engagement, making it one of the most sought-after professions today.
Specialisations in Digital Marketing
Digital marketing has various specialisations one can pursue depending on their interests and career goals. Some popular specialisations include content marketing, social media marketing, email marketing, and mobile marketing.
Skills required for different specialisations:
1) Content marketer: Excellent writing skills; experience with copywriting and editing; knowledge of SEO best practises
2) Social Media Marketer: Strong writing and communication skills; ability to create engaging social media posts across multiple platforms
3) Email Marketer: Knowledge of email marketing tools such as Mailchimp or Constant Contact; experience creating effective email campaigns
4) Mobile Marketer: Knowledge of mobile ad formats and strategies; experience with mobile app marketing
Remember, to be a successful digital marketer, you must focus on continuous learning and upskilling regularly. Connect with experts at WIZR for guidance on choosing the right certification courses and upskilling programmes!
Become a Successful Digital Marketer Today!
Congratulations! You now have a better understanding of what it takes to become a successful digital marketer in India. Here are some key takeaways:
- Digital marketing is one of the fastest-growing industries in India, and there are plenty of job opportunities available for young professionals.
- Education and upskilling are critical to success as a digital marketer. Whether you pursue a degree or certification course, make sure to keep learning and updating your skills regularly.
- WIZR can help connect you with experts who can guide you towards the right certification courses and upskilling programmes to achieve your career goals.
FAQs
1. Do I need commerce in 12th grade to pursue digital marketing courses?
No, commerce is not mandatory. Anyone with a high school diploma or equivalent qualification can pursue digital marketing courses.
2. What do recruiters value more: a degree in digital marketing or certifications?
A degree is not necessary but can be beneficial for entry-level positions. However, certifications and relevant work experience are highly valued by employers in the digital marketing industry.
3. How do I apply for digital marketing jobs?
You can find job openings on online job portals or through company career pages. Ensure that your resume and online presence reflect your skills and experience in digital marketing.
4. How can WIZR help me upskill myself in digital marketing?
WiZR offers young professionals financing options for career-focused upskilling and certification programmes that will help them improve their skills and increase their employability within the industry.
5. Which industry pays the highest salary for digital marketing?
The entertainment, media, and e-commerce industries tend to pay higher salaries than other sectors within the industry in India, with senior-level positions earning anywhere between 15 and 25 lakhs per annum.
