If you are considering a career in digital marketing, you may have a lot of questions that you need answering first. Access Creative College has provided answers to 8 frequently asked questions about digital marketing apprenticeships and career advice.
Is digital marketing a good career?
Are you wondering whether digital marketing could be your gateway to an exciting career journey? Well, in today’s digital age, where every swipe, click, and tap shapes our world, the demand for skilled digital marketers is skyrocketing. Picture this: you’ll be at the forefront of innovative campaigns, creating captivating content, and decoding data to drive business success, all while riding the wave of ever-evolving technology.
Digital marketing goes beyond numbers and algorithms; it’s a space where your creativity can truly shine. From brainstorming viral social media strategies to designing eye-catching visuals, you’ll have the opportunity to exercise your creative flair and make your mark in the digital realm.
Whether you’re passionate about writing, design, analytics, or strategy, digital marketing offers a diverse variety of pathways for you to specialise in. Similarly, if you’re someone who thrives when having your finger on the pulse, digital marketing is for you.
So, is digital marketing a good career choice? Absolutely! According to a PayScale statistic,
marketing managers have an average job satisfaction rate of 70%. This high satisfaction rate indicates that a significant number of professionals find fulfilment and enjoyment in their work, highlighting the positive aspects of pursuing a digital marketing career.
What does a digital marketer do?
In short, digital marketers leverage online platforms to enhance brand visibility and increase sales for companies. Think of them as the architects of the digital skyline, constructing virtual skyscrapers for businesses to rise above the competition.
Some of the channels digital marketers use to promote products or services include:
- Website
- Social media networks such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
- Search engines including Google and Bing
- Online display ads
However, a digital marketer’s responsibilities don’t end there. Digital marketing also involves analysing data metrics to evaluate performance and refine strategies for optimal results. Because after all, what’s the point of creating a compelling campaign if you’re not tracking its success? Once you’re armed with data, you can swiftly adapt where needed to guarantee maximum impact and return of investment (ROI).
How do digital marketers track a campaign’s success? The answer is through key performance indicators (KPIs) such as website traffic, conversion rates, click-through rates, and social media engagement metrics, to name a few. By understanding these metrics, digital marketers gain invaluable insights into consumer behaviour, market trends, and campaign performance.
To summarise on ‘what does a digital marketer do?’, it’s not just about creating eye-catching content, it’s about harnessing data to support informed decisions and steer brands towards success in the continuously changing digital landscape.
How much do digital marketers make?
Ah, the golden question: ‘how much do digital marketers make?’ Well, the answer might just bring a smile to your face. Digital marketing careers offer a lucrative earning potential, with salaries varying depending on factors like experience, expertise, and location.
According to Indeed, the average salary for an entry-level marketing role is £26,599 per year in the United Kingdom. As you progress in your career and gain more experience, senior roles like digital marketing managers can command salaries ranging from £37,000 to £53,000 or more. Plus, with the ever-expanding digital landscape and the increasing demand for skilled professionals, there are plenty of opportunities for career growth and advancement.
Keep in mind that specialised skills like SEO or PPC can further boost your earning potential. So, while the exact figures may vary, one thing’s certain: entering the digital marketing industry can pave the way for a rewarding and financially fulfilling career journey.
Are digital marketing jobs in demand?
Interestingly, the demand for digital marketers is growing. Organisations increasingly rely on online channels to connect with their audiences. With the exponential growth of e-commerce, social media platforms, and digital advertising, companies are constantly seeking professionals who can navigate the complex landscape of digital marketing and ensure results.
Digital marketing jobs are not only in demand but are projected to continue growing in the years to come. In fact, the Bureau of Labor claims that the demand for marketing jobs is set to increase by 10% by 2026. For aspiring digital marketers, this presents a wealth of opportunities.
Is digital marketing a tech job?
While digital marketing certainly involves using technology, it’s not commonly known as a traditional tech role.
Some of the tech skills involved in digital marketing include data analytics, SEO, and PPC. Although these play an important role, so do creative skills like content creation, graphic design, and storytelling. Digital marketers also need strong communication, analytical, and strategic thinking abilities to effectively plan and execute campaigns. Unlike purely technical roles, digital marketing requires a blend of both technical and creative expertise.
What is a digital marketing apprenticeship?
If you lack experience or want to learn from seasoned professionals, a digital marketing apprenticeship is a great pathway to consider.
In digital marketing apprenticeships, you will learn industry skills, apply them, and earn at the same time. Did we mention you actually get paid to gain an industry recognised qualification? (If only they did this at school!) Yep, that’s one of the many perks of pursuing the apprenticeship route.
During your time as a digital marketing apprentice, you’ll have the chance to learn from industry experts, including our friendly team here at Access Industry. This type of training will make up at least 20% of your normal working hours, over the planned duration of the apprenticeship practical period. It’s also known as ‘off-the-job training’.
The other 80% of your time will be ‘on-the-job’ training, which is delivered by your employer. This could involve having hands-on experience working on a digital marketing campaign, where you can apply the skills learnt in your off-the-job training.
The most common apprenticeship for those wishing to kickstart their careers in digital marketing is the Level 3 Multichannel Marketer. You’ll be pleased to know that there aren’t any formal entry requirements apart from achieving your Level 2 English and Maths, if you don’t already have this.
How much do digital marketing apprentices make?
In the UK, apprenticeships come with a minimum wage requirement, ensuring that apprentices receive fair compensation for their work.
Currently, apprenticeships wages vary depending on the below:
Aged 16 to 18
- The current National Minimum Wage rate for an apprentice is £5.28 per hour.
Aged 19 or over and in your first year
- The current National Minimum Wage rate for an apprentice is £5.28 per hour.
Aged 19 or over and have completed your first year
- You’re entitled to the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage rate for your age.
It’s important to note that many employers pay their apprentices above this minimum rate. Some employers may take into account factors such as location, level of experience, and industry when it comes to pay.
As you progress through your apprenticeship and gain more skills and responsibilities, your salary may increase accordingly. While the pay may vary, the experience and skills gained from a digital marketing apprenticeship are priceless.
Is a digital marketing apprenticeship worth it?
Overall, by opting to complete a programme such as the Level 3 Multichannel Marketer, you’ll not only acquire essential skills but also establish a strong foundation for future success in the industry.
If you’re passionate about digital marketing and eager to jumpstart your career, an apprenticeship is undoubtedly worth it. It’s an investment in your future that can open doors to endless possibilities in the exciting world of digital marketing.