You’re scrolling through your phone. Ads, reels, blogs, newsletters—content everywhere.

Ever wondered who’s behind all that buzz? Who makes the decisions about the target audience, timing, and message?

That’s digital marketing in action.

With businesses shifting online and brands prioritizing digital-first strategies, digital marketing has become one of the most in-demand skills globally.

So, if you’re curious about how to start a career in digital marketing, here’s your roadmap to get started the right way.

First, Understand What Digital Marketing Really Is

Before jumping into skills required for digital marketing, understand the bigger picture. Digital marketing isn’t just running ads or managing Instagram pages.

It includes:

SEO (Search Engine Optimization)
SEM (Search Engine Marketing / PPC)
Content Marketing
Email Marketing
Social Media Marketing
Affiliate Marketing
Analytics & Data-Driven Strategy
Marketing Automation

Take time to explore each area and identify what aligns with your interests. Some prefer the creative side, like content and social media, while others love analytics and performance marketing.

How to Start a Career in Digital Marketing

Step 1: Learn the Fundamentals

Don’t rush into advanced certifications. Start with the basics.

Free platforms like Google Digital Garage, HubSpot Academy, and Meta Blueprint offer solid foundational courses. Also, follow marketers on LinkedIn, the community rich with insights, real-time case studies, and job leads.

Try to join newsletters like Marketing Brew, Neil Patel, or Backlinko to stay updated.

Step 2: Get Hands-On Experience (Even Without a Job)

This is the secret sauce.

Start a blog. Create a mock campaign. Manage your friend’s small business page. Promote your own personal brand. Even a small project can be a great talking point in interviews.

Employers value practical knowledge over just certificates.

Tools to play around with:

Google Analytics
Google Ad
Canva
Mailchimp
Ahrefs or SEMrush (free trials work)
Meta Ads Manager

Step 3: Build a Personal Brand

In digital marketing, you are your first client.

Optimize your LinkedIn profile with keywords like “Aspiring Digital Marketer,” “Content Creator,” or “SEO Beginner.” Share what you’re learning and engage with other marketers.

This positions you as someone serious about the field, even if you’re just starting out.

Step 4: Intern, Freelance or Volunteer

If you’re just starting out, experience > paycheck.

Apply for internships (even remote ones).
Offer to handle social media or email campaigns for NGOs or local startups.
Try freelance platforms like Fiverr or Upwork just to understand client needs.

These stints give you portfolio material, client communication skills, and real-world exposure.

Step 5: Start Applying with Confidence

When you’ve got some hands-on work, even small-scale, start applying for entry-level roles:

Digital Marketing Executive
SEO Analyst
Social Media Associate
Content Marketing Assistant

Digital marketing isn’t static. Trends change, platforms evolve, and algorithms update, but that’s what makes it exciting.

If you’re curious, creative, and analytical, this field rewards proactive learners. So, whether you’re in a career shift, a student, or simply looking to future-proof your skills, digital marketing is your cue to begin.

Ready to Begin? Learn Digital Marketing from the Experts at Tecswan

Thinking of a career switch or a skills upgrade that actually keeps up with the times? At Tecswan, we focus on immersive learning that mirrors what the industry actually demands.

Make your first step with us.