6 answers
Timothy
Student
Union City, California
1
Question
Asked
798 views
Difficulty in finding a job in Marketing?
I just graduated with a degree in Marketing. I am having difficulty finding a job that is suitable for my major.
During my studies, I have accumulated some knowledge and skills such as:
Building a marketing strategy
Managing social networks
Organizing events
Analyzing the market
Using online marketing tools (Google Analytics, Facebook Ads...)
However, when I started looking for a job, I felt quite vague and did not know which field to focus on. I have applied for several positions such as:
Online marketing staff
Event organizer
Customer service staff
But so far I have not received any positive feedback.
With my skills and experience, which marketing field should I focus on?
What skills do I need to supplement to increase my competitiveness in the labor market?
What are some effective channels to find a job in the marketing industry?
How to make a good impression on the employer in an interview?
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6 answers
Morgan G
Management Consultant
4
Answers
Fort Worth, Texas
Updated
Morgan’s Answer
Congratulations on graduating with a degree in Marketing! It's great that you have a solid foundation of skills and knowledge. Let's address your questions to help you navigate your job search more effectively.
Which Marketing Field to Focus On
Given your skills in building marketing strategies, managing social networks, organizing events, analyzing the market, and using online tools, here are a few areas you might consider specializing in:
1. Digital Marketing Specialist: Focuses on online marketing strategies, SEO, SEM, and social media marketing. Your skills with tools like Google Analytics and Facebook Ads are particularly relevant here.
2. Social Media Manager: Involves managing a company's social media presence, creating content, and engaging with audiences. Your experience with social networks will be valuable
3. Event Marketing Coordinator: Combines your skills in event organization and marketing strategy to promote and manage events.
4. Content Marketing: Involves creating and distributing valuable, relevant content to attract and engage a target audience.
5. Market Research Analyst: Uses your analytical skills to study market conditions and consumer behavior to help companies understand potential sales of a product or service.
Skills to Supplement
To increase your competitiveness in the labor market, consider developing the following skills:
1. Data Analysis: Improve your ability to interpret data and metrics. Tools like Google Data Studio or Tableau can be very useful.
2. Content Creation: Enhance your skills in writing, video editing, or graphic design. Tools like Canva or Adobe Creative Suite might be helpful.
3. SEO/SEM: Deepen your understanding of search engine optimization and search engine marketing to improve visibility for clients.
4. Email Marketing: Learn how to create effective email campaigns using platforms like Mailchimp or HubSpot.
5. Project Management: Skills in managing projects can be beneficial, especially if you're interested in roles like event marketing.
Effective Job Search Channels
1. LinkedIn: A powerful tool for networking and job searching. Make sure your profile is up to date and highlights your skills and experiences.
2. Job Boards: Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and Marketing-specific boards like MarketingHire or FlexJobs can be useful.
3. Networking Events: Attend industry events, webinars, and workshops to connect with professionals in your field.
4. Company Websites: Check the career pages of companies you're interested in to find openings.
5. Recruitment Agencies: Consider agencies that specialize in marketing roles.
Making a Good Impression in an Interview
1. Research the Company: Understand their products, services, culture, and recent news. Tailor your responses to show how you can add value.
2. Highlight Relevant Experience: Use examples that showcase your skills and accomplishments that align with the job description.
3. Ask Thoughtful Questions: Show interest in the role and company by asking insightful questions.
4. Demonstrate Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, and adaptability are key in marketing roles.
5. Follow Up: Send a thank-you email after the interview, reiterating your interest and appreciation for the opportunity.
By focusing on these areas, you can refine your job search strategy and improve your chances of finding a suitable position in marketing. Good luck!
Which Marketing Field to Focus On
Given your skills in building marketing strategies, managing social networks, organizing events, analyzing the market, and using online tools, here are a few areas you might consider specializing in:
1. Digital Marketing Specialist: Focuses on online marketing strategies, SEO, SEM, and social media marketing. Your skills with tools like Google Analytics and Facebook Ads are particularly relevant here.
2. Social Media Manager: Involves managing a company's social media presence, creating content, and engaging with audiences. Your experience with social networks will be valuable
3. Event Marketing Coordinator: Combines your skills in event organization and marketing strategy to promote and manage events.
4. Content Marketing: Involves creating and distributing valuable, relevant content to attract and engage a target audience.
5. Market Research Analyst: Uses your analytical skills to study market conditions and consumer behavior to help companies understand potential sales of a product or service.
Skills to Supplement
To increase your competitiveness in the labor market, consider developing the following skills:
1. Data Analysis: Improve your ability to interpret data and metrics. Tools like Google Data Studio or Tableau can be very useful.
2. Content Creation: Enhance your skills in writing, video editing, or graphic design. Tools like Canva or Adobe Creative Suite might be helpful.
3. SEO/SEM: Deepen your understanding of search engine optimization and search engine marketing to improve visibility for clients.
4. Email Marketing: Learn how to create effective email campaigns using platforms like Mailchimp or HubSpot.
5. Project Management: Skills in managing projects can be beneficial, especially if you're interested in roles like event marketing.
Effective Job Search Channels
1. LinkedIn: A powerful tool for networking and job searching. Make sure your profile is up to date and highlights your skills and experiences.
2. Job Boards: Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and Marketing-specific boards like MarketingHire or FlexJobs can be useful.
3. Networking Events: Attend industry events, webinars, and workshops to connect with professionals in your field.
4. Company Websites: Check the career pages of companies you're interested in to find openings.
5. Recruitment Agencies: Consider agencies that specialize in marketing roles.
Making a Good Impression in an Interview
1. Research the Company: Understand their products, services, culture, and recent news. Tailor your responses to show how you can add value.
2. Highlight Relevant Experience: Use examples that showcase your skills and accomplishments that align with the job description.
3. Ask Thoughtful Questions: Show interest in the role and company by asking insightful questions.
4. Demonstrate Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, and adaptability are key in marketing roles.
5. Follow Up: Send a thank-you email after the interview, reiterating your interest and appreciation for the opportunity.
By focusing on these areas, you can refine your job search strategy and improve your chances of finding a suitable position in marketing. Good luck!
David Ludwick
Business Owner
49
Answers
Huntington Beach, California
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Timothy,
It sounds like you're at an important crossroads in your career. Let’s break down your questions step-by-step to help you get clarity and direction:
1. Which marketing field should you focus on?
Since you already have skills in:
Building marketing strategies
Managing social networks
Organizing events
Market analysis
Using online marketing tools (Google Analytics, Facebook Ads)
You have a strong foundation that fits well with several marketing fields. Consider focusing on one of these areas:
✅ Digital Marketing – Your experience with social media management and online tools (Google Analytics, Facebook Ads) aligns well with this field. Roles like Digital Marketing Specialist, Social Media Manager, or PPC (Pay-Per-Click) Analyst could be a good fit.
✅ Content Marketing – If you enjoy writing or content creation, you could explore roles like Content Strategist or SEO Specialist.
✅ Event Marketing – Your experience organizing events would be valuable for roles like Event Coordinator or Brand Activation Manager.
✅ Marketing Analytics – Your analytical skills could make you a strong candidate for roles like Marketing Data Analyst or Performance Marketing Manager.
Since you mentioned feeling uncertain, you could apply for internships or short-term roles to test the waters before committing fully to one path.
2. What skills should you supplement to increase competitiveness?
To increase your market value, consider strengthening the following skills:
🔎 SEO and SEM – Deeper understanding of search engine optimization and paid search strategies can open up more digital roles.
📊 Data Analysis and Reporting – Tools like Google Data Studio, Tableau, and Excel for deeper data insights.
🎯 CRM and Automation Tools – Platforms like HubSpot, Salesforce, and email automation tools are highly sought after.
🛍️ E-commerce Marketing – Experience with platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce can broaden your opportunities in online marketing.
💡 Soft Skills – Strengthen communication, adaptability, and creative problem-solving to stand out in interviews and work environments.
3. Effective channels to find a marketing job
4. How to make a good impression in an interview
Here’s how to stand out:
✅ Research the Company – Understand their market, products, and competitors. Mention specific campaigns or strategies they've used.
✅ Show Results – Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to explain how you’ve applied your skills and the outcomes you achieved.
✅ Customize Your Answers – Tailor your responses to match the job description and highlight the most relevant skills.
✅ Ask Insightful Questions – For example:
"What are the key challenges the team is facing right now?"
"What does success look like in this role?"
✅ Body Language and Confidence – Maintain eye contact, sit up straight, and speak clearly.
🎯 Suggested Next Steps
Focus on digital marketing or content marketing based on your current skills.
Build up skills in SEO, data analysis, and CRM tools.
Leverage LinkedIn and networking to uncover hidden opportunities.
Prepare for interviews using the STAR method and ask strong follow-up questions.
🌐 LinkedIn – Optimize your profile, connect with industry professionals, and apply directly through LinkedIn Jobs.
🎯 Job Boards – Indeed, Glassdoor, and ZipRecruiter are great for finding marketing-specific roles.
🤝 Networking – Attend industry events, join local marketing groups, and participate in webinars. Personal connections often lead to job opportunities.
🚀 Company Websites – Follow companies you're interested in and apply directly through their career pages.
It sounds like you're at an important crossroads in your career. Let’s break down your questions step-by-step to help you get clarity and direction:
1. Which marketing field should you focus on?
Since you already have skills in:
Building marketing strategies
Managing social networks
Organizing events
Market analysis
Using online marketing tools (Google Analytics, Facebook Ads)
You have a strong foundation that fits well with several marketing fields. Consider focusing on one of these areas:
✅ Digital Marketing – Your experience with social media management and online tools (Google Analytics, Facebook Ads) aligns well with this field. Roles like Digital Marketing Specialist, Social Media Manager, or PPC (Pay-Per-Click) Analyst could be a good fit.
✅ Content Marketing – If you enjoy writing or content creation, you could explore roles like Content Strategist or SEO Specialist.
✅ Event Marketing – Your experience organizing events would be valuable for roles like Event Coordinator or Brand Activation Manager.
✅ Marketing Analytics – Your analytical skills could make you a strong candidate for roles like Marketing Data Analyst or Performance Marketing Manager.
Since you mentioned feeling uncertain, you could apply for internships or short-term roles to test the waters before committing fully to one path.
2. What skills should you supplement to increase competitiveness?
To increase your market value, consider strengthening the following skills:
🔎 SEO and SEM – Deeper understanding of search engine optimization and paid search strategies can open up more digital roles.
📊 Data Analysis and Reporting – Tools like Google Data Studio, Tableau, and Excel for deeper data insights.
🎯 CRM and Automation Tools – Platforms like HubSpot, Salesforce, and email automation tools are highly sought after.
🛍️ E-commerce Marketing – Experience with platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce can broaden your opportunities in online marketing.
💡 Soft Skills – Strengthen communication, adaptability, and creative problem-solving to stand out in interviews and work environments.
3. Effective channels to find a marketing job
4. How to make a good impression in an interview
Here’s how to stand out:
✅ Research the Company – Understand their market, products, and competitors. Mention specific campaigns or strategies they've used.
✅ Show Results – Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to explain how you’ve applied your skills and the outcomes you achieved.
✅ Customize Your Answers – Tailor your responses to match the job description and highlight the most relevant skills.
✅ Ask Insightful Questions – For example:
"What are the key challenges the team is facing right now?"
"What does success look like in this role?"
✅ Body Language and Confidence – Maintain eye contact, sit up straight, and speak clearly.
🎯 Suggested Next Steps
Focus on digital marketing or content marketing based on your current skills.
Build up skills in SEO, data analysis, and CRM tools.
Leverage LinkedIn and networking to uncover hidden opportunities.
Prepare for interviews using the STAR method and ask strong follow-up questions.
David recommends the following next steps:
Amy Bartle
VP Global Media
1
Answer
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Amy’s Answer
Finding opportunities with little experience can be tough, but it's doable. Your first jobs might not pay much or be very exciting, but they are important steps.
Try looking for entry-level jobs at agencies. Working at an agency offers many benefits. You'll get to see how different companies handle marketing, learn from their training programs, and gain a lot of experience quickly. Plus, you'll meet people with lots of marketing knowledge, which can help grow your network.
Agency work can be demanding. The pay might be low at first, and the hours can be long. However, you'll learn a lot and have the chance to move up quickly. You'll also see different parts of marketing, which can help you decide what you enjoy most for your future career.
There are many types of agencies you can work with. If you find that you like a specific area of marketing, like events, focus on agencies that specialize in that field.
Try looking for entry-level jobs at agencies. Working at an agency offers many benefits. You'll get to see how different companies handle marketing, learn from their training programs, and gain a lot of experience quickly. Plus, you'll meet people with lots of marketing knowledge, which can help grow your network.
Agency work can be demanding. The pay might be low at first, and the hours can be long. However, you'll learn a lot and have the chance to move up quickly. You'll also see different parts of marketing, which can help you decide what you enjoy most for your future career.
There are many types of agencies you can work with. If you find that you like a specific area of marketing, like events, focus on agencies that specialize in that field.
Charlie Jennings
Director of sales
23
Answers
Lexington, Kentucky
Updated
Charlie’s Answer
Timothy congratulations on earning your degree, that is quite an accomplishment but it doesn't mean that you are qualified for higher paying marketing jobs. I'm not being negative, I'm just being real. I would LOVE an opportunity to actually speak with you about your studies and your career goals, so my comments will be general in nature and not critical of you personally. I have had many graduates apply for jobs who expected a six figure salary and a corner office who were unwilling to "start at the bottom", guess what, they didn't get hired. And I've had others who would do anything asked of them for little or no pay just to obtain the experience, it's all about attitude. When I graduated from broadcast school I worked three jobs part-time and I had to room with two other guys just to afford to live on my own. I had to do all that to gain practical experience that wasn't taught in school, I had to build my resume and more importantly I had to build a reputation for being dependable, for having a good work ethic and for being a "team player" who was willing to do anything asked of me. The only constant in media and marketing is change, sooner or later someone will move on and if you've made a positive impression on the hiring manager that window of opportunity will open for you. Again, I don't know what specific type of marketing you have interest, but you might consider sales as a starting place. It seems all upper management jobs begin in sales. When I was a DJ for radio station, I had to interact with our clients so sales was forced upon me, that sales experience open doors for me as a manager of radio, then print, then cable TV, then I was recruited by an ad agency. Without that sales experience, which I initially resisted, climbing the corporate ladder would have taken much longer AND it pays well. I hope some of this will help in some way, you can this!
Kim Gravell
Retired Principal at Gravell Insights, LLC
154
Answers
Nipomo, California
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Hi Timothy
You have been given some excellent advice and guidance by mentors. The only thing I will add is to consider that the breadth and impact of strategic marketing affects the entire organization. It is helpful to understand the various departments and functions of an organization (sales, operations, finance, etc) and take them into consideration as you make strategic marketing decisions. You may want to consider working in those areas or at least spend some time understanding how they function as part of your learning and growth process.
You may also want to consider adjacent job opportunities that will augment your experience such as public relations, business development, account management, recruitment, relationship manager, etc. All of these roles will utilize the skills needed for effective marketing and will build your knowledge base and experience to be most effective in a strategic marketing role (should you choose).
You are off to a great start by asking the right questions. My very best wishes for a successful journey.
You have been given some excellent advice and guidance by mentors. The only thing I will add is to consider that the breadth and impact of strategic marketing affects the entire organization. It is helpful to understand the various departments and functions of an organization (sales, operations, finance, etc) and take them into consideration as you make strategic marketing decisions. You may want to consider working in those areas or at least spend some time understanding how they function as part of your learning and growth process.
You may also want to consider adjacent job opportunities that will augment your experience such as public relations, business development, account management, recruitment, relationship manager, etc. All of these roles will utilize the skills needed for effective marketing and will build your knowledge base and experience to be most effective in a strategic marketing role (should you choose).
You are off to a great start by asking the right questions. My very best wishes for a successful journey.
Cicely Pearson
Marketing
6
Answers
Walnut Creek, California
Updated
Cicely’s Answer
Hi Timothy,
Congratulations on comleting your degree! I am sorry to hear your efforts have not produced the outcome you were looking for, but please don't give up. One of the hardest pills to swallow during the job hunt is how many rejections you will receive before landing your first position.
Did you complete an internship? Something that worked for me when I graduated was sticking with the company that I completed my intership with. I asked to stay on as an entry-level employee and they agreed. If this is something that speaks to you, try this method.
Another suggestion is to reserach as many industries as possible. Sometimes the road to the career that you want requires training in other areas. Check out restaurants, event companies, etc. to see if they are hiring for open roles, then inquire about the marketing tactics/strategies of that company. Even if you don't land a marketing role, you will gain valuable skills like communication, business management, sociology, and psychology (buyers habits).
I understand that this short response has many layers so take your time with your research and don't be afraid to reach out to me if you have any more questions. Good luck!
Congratulations on comleting your degree! I am sorry to hear your efforts have not produced the outcome you were looking for, but please don't give up. One of the hardest pills to swallow during the job hunt is how many rejections you will receive before landing your first position.
Did you complete an internship? Something that worked for me when I graduated was sticking with the company that I completed my intership with. I asked to stay on as an entry-level employee and they agreed. If this is something that speaks to you, try this method.
Another suggestion is to reserach as many industries as possible. Sometimes the road to the career that you want requires training in other areas. Check out restaurants, event companies, etc. to see if they are hiring for open roles, then inquire about the marketing tactics/strategies of that company. Even if you don't land a marketing role, you will gain valuable skills like communication, business management, sociology, and psychology (buyers habits).
I understand that this short response has many layers so take your time with your research and don't be afraid to reach out to me if you have any more questions. Good luck!