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Tips For Gaining Experience?

I am a junior in college and I wish to enter into digital marketing or marketing in general. I am eager to get experience with internships or entry level jobs. I keep getting turned down unfortunately. Are there any tips or something else I should be doing to get my foot through the door into my career?


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Dierdra’s Answer

Hi Jade,

Many college students and recent graduates face this challenge, so you're not alone! A great way to gain experience is by volunteering with local nonprofits, small businesses, churches, or student groups to help with their marketing or social media. This lets you build real skills while showing your initiative and dedication to important causes.

Also, make the most of networking chances by going to local marketing events and joining student chapters of groups like the American Marketing Association (AMA). Connecting with industry professionals can lead to exciting opportunities and help you find internships or entry-level jobs that aren't always advertised. Keep pushing forward—you're on the right path!
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Marsha’s Answer

Hi Jade,

This is an issue that arises with a lot of college students. The best advice I can give is start with free resources and online courses to enhance your skills. I would look into various volunteering and internship opportunities through LinkedIn or job boards. It feels discouraging, when you do not get responses, but the right company will give you that opportunity. If there are certain marketing companies that interest you, I would directly message them and network. Utilize your social media and LinkedIn. There could be various conferences and webinars that you could attend and network with professionals in the marketing space. You will find the right opportunity, just remember to always believe in yourself and don’t give up.
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Charlotte’s Answer

Hi Jade,
t’s great that you’re proactive about gaining experience in digital marketing! Breaking into the field can be tricky, but with the right strategies, you’ll increase your chances of landing that first internship or entry-level job. Here’s how to stand out and get your foot in the door:

1. Build Your Own Experience (Even Without a Job):
Sometimes, creating your own opportunities can help bridge the experience gap.

Personal Projects:

Start a blog or social media page where you practice content creation, social media management, or digital campaigns.

Create a portfolio website showcasing your work. Even personal projects count!

Freelance or Volunteer:

Offer digital marketing help to local businesses, non-profits, or student organizations.

Use platforms like Fiverr or Upwork to do small marketing gigs and gain hands-on experience.

Build a Campaign from Scratch:

Choose a hypothetical brand and create a social media strategy, content calendar, or ad campaign as a mock project.

Highlight this in your portfolio to show your creativity and problem-solving skills.

2. Optimize Your Resume and LinkedIn:
Highlight Relevant Skills:

Include SEO, content creation, social media management, analytics, and campaign planning even if your experience is from personal projects or classes.

Use Marketing Keywords:

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) look for terms like “digital strategy,” “content marketing,” “social media analytics,” and “Google Ads.”

Show Measurable Results:

Instead of just listing tasks, include achievements like “Increased social media engagement by 30% over three months.”

LinkedIn Presence:

Keep your profile updated, join marketing groups, and connect with professionals in the field.

Regularly share insights or your own content to stay active and visible.

3. Gain Certifications and Skills:
Adding industry-recognized certifications can boost your credibility.

Google Certifications:

Google Analytics Certification (free)

Google Ads Certification (free)

HubSpot Academy:

Content Marketing and Social Media Strategy courses (free)

Meta Blueprint:

Certifications in Facebook and Instagram marketing

SEO and Digital Marketing Courses:

Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer practical courses.

Email Marketing Skills:

Learn tools like Mailchimp or Constant Contact since email marketing is still huge.

4. Network with Purpose:
Attend Marketing Webinars and Workshops:

Look for virtual events hosted by AMA (American Marketing Association) or local chapters.

Informational Interviews:

Reach out to alumni or professionals on LinkedIn.

Ask about their career paths, challenges, and advice. You might get referrals or insights into job openings.

Join Marketing Clubs or Groups:

Many universities have marketing clubs where you can meet peers with similar goals.

Marketing Case Competitions:

Participate in events like Google Online Marketing Challenge or local business pitch competitions.

Find a Mentor:

A mentor in marketing can guide you on career moves and skills to develop.

5. Apply Strategically:
Target Entry-Level Roles and Internships:

Don’t shy away from marketing assistant or marketing coordinator roles.

Don’t Be Afraid of Unpaid Internships:

While not ideal, some unpaid roles can build experience and lead to paid positions.

Smaller Companies and Startups:

They’re more likely to take a chance on someone without a lot of experience.

Follow Up After Applications:

Sending a polite follow-up email shows persistence and interest.

Customize Your Applications:

Tailor your resume and cover letter to match the specific skills mentioned in the job posting.

6. Ace the Interview:
Prepare Real Examples:

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to explain how you handled marketing-related tasks.

Show Enthusiasm and Creativity:

Employers love seeing passion and the willingness to learn.

Talk About Personal Projects:

Even hypothetical campaigns show initiative and creativity.

Ask Thoughtful Questions:

Demonstrate that you’ve researched the company and are genuinely interested in their marketing strategies.
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Sarah’s Answer

Hi Jade,

This is normal and something I've gone through too. Keep reaching out and connecting with different organizations.

My first unpaid internship was very valuable because it helped me meet people who later led me to paid jobs.

If you promise to do something, make sure you follow through, and you'll do well!

Good luck!
Sarah
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Elly’s Answer

Hi Jade!

You're on an exciting journey, and networking can open many doors for you. Try to expand your LinkedIn connections by reaching out to professionals in your field. Remember, even if someone doesn't have an opportunity for you right now, they might know someone who does!

Also, consider working with a recruiting agency. While there might be some fees, they can connect you with companies eager to help students gain valuable experience. Once you feel confident in your skills, you can explore opportunities on your own. This experience will be a great addition to your resume and help you stand out.
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Michelle’s Answer

Hi Jade,

It sounds like this is the perfect opportunity to build your resume and network. I would recommend using the power of social media and searching for an up and coming brand/company and offering to intern for them whether paid or unpaid. Ensure the company aligns with the type of brand and company that aligns with you and offer to run their social media campaigns and email campaigns or ask them what other marketing tasks you can assist them with. It's ok if it's unpaid. This opportunity is just for the experience. You can add that experience on your resume and build your skill set. You can use that experience with other jobs or internships that you are interested in.
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Gustavo’s Answer

Download some free trials of HubSpot and get certified for free on HubSpot Academy!

Run an ad campaign sometime with a small budget for a business of your choosing. Play with Google Ads!
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Aurelia’s Answer

Hi Jade, definitely don't get discouraged, keep your head up and your thoughts positive. I'd suggest searching for internships but also maybe more importantly - network. Take any and all opportunities to talk to as many people as possible, you never know where that will lead. I was in the same situation a few years back, I kept following up with everyone I met and if someone didn't have something for me, they made introductions. Good luck!
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Tyler’s Answer

Hey Jade,

I would recommend to those jobs/internships you are applying for, to reach out to the recruiter via LinkedIn if you can find them. Doing this myself, I found a higher chance of getting that initial interview and showing the recruiter you are really interested in the role. You really want to make yourself show amongst all of the other people applying to the jobs, and I found huge success in doing this.
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Cristhian’s Answer

Hi Jade,

My advice would be to work in something you enjoy, even if it's only a low-wage job. You need to understand the world you're entering and be passionate about it. This is a short tip, but I think it's crucial for a successful career.
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Allison’s Answer

Participate in clubs, sports teams, or other extracurricular activities. These are great places to meet people with similar interests. Volunteering is another fantastic way to connect with others while contributing to your community. Find a mentor who can guide you and provide valuable advice based on their experience
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Erik’s Answer

Hi Jade,

If your college has a career fair they are usually a great resource to get face time with people and companies. This can aid in avoiding the black hole of applying to random jobs online. I would also say most colleges have some sort of corporate sponsors or donors for classrooms, facilities, scholarships, programs, etc. These are great companies to look at because you know they have an interest in recruiting from your school.
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Vanessa’s Answer

Look for ways to build your social network. It may sound cliche, but it really will open so many doors and opportunities for you to gain experience and truly determine what path you want to take in your career. Reach out to network via LinkedIn, local chapters / organizations within marketing, and college professors. The world is really smaller than we think, and most people will help support you and make introductions as needed. Me being one of them! Good luck on your journey!
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Brenda’s Answer

Hi Jade,
Look for volunteer opportunities either with a non-profit or club/organization at your college where you can gain some experience to help add to your resume. Most non-profits will take any "free" help. For a non-profit you could build a marketing plan or do research, help with their social platforms etc. Clubs and organizations also give opportunity to gain experience and take on leadership roles.

Good luck!
Brenda
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Steve’s Answer

Hi Jade, getting your first marketing role can be challenging. If you feel blocked, find a company you want to work for and look for internships with the sales team or roles in sales support. Sales typically works very closely with marketing, so this can be a great way to get in the door, then find opportunities to pivot into the marketing side.
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Sabrina’s Answer

Hi Jade,

I'm a marketing professional who has interviewed and hired several interns in recent years. My advice to you is to do something to stand out from the crowd. The interns we went on to hire were enthusiastic, showed actual passion for the role, researched the company and the role ahead of time, came with something they had learned about our company, and went above and beyond the job description.

I hope that helps, and good luck!

Sabrina
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Stella’s Answer

Hey Jade! A great way to get experience while you're still in school is to try different things—like internships, part-time jobs, volunteering, or joining student clubs. These can teach you a lot. When I was in college, I did three short internships at different companies in various fields. This helped me see what I liked and what I didn’t. Later, I took a longer trainee role for a year, which gave me a better look at daily work life. You don’t have to know everything right away—every experience, big or small, helps you find your way. Be curious, chat with people, and give things a try. You’ve got this!
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Narpat’s Answer

The top advice for digital marketing is to stay curious. Start by creating a LinkedIn or Twitter profile and post regularly, either daily or weekly. As your followers grow, everything becomes more manageable. Also, don't hesitate to connect with marketing professionals on LinkedIn. You'll be amazed at how many people are eager to assist when you reach out to them. 😊
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Cindy’s Answer

I am a junior in college and I wish to enter into digital marketing or marketing in general. I am eager to get experience with internships or entry level jobs. I keep getting turned down unfortunately. Are there any tips or something else I should be doing to get my foot through the door into my career?
Hi Jade,

First thing is first... getting your foot in the door is incredibly difficult considering the current job market. One way to gain experience before getting your foot in the door is by volunteering. If you can't get an unpaid internship, you can still gain valuable experience by learning as much as you can on a job that is similar to what you want, even if you aren't getting paid for it. Another route is through enablement. Salesforce has a ton of learning programs on Trailhead that are completely free. You can also work towards achieving any of the Salesforce certifications.

When it comes to getting your foot in the door, one piece of advice is to take a look at the job description and see how many skills you have that matches that description before applying. Hone in on those skills and try to make your resume highlight those same skills so you can stand out among other applicants.

The key here is continuous learning, always interview - more you interview, the more you know what businesses are looking for in terms of skills and what you should be adding to your repertoire. Interview to build up your confidence on how you present yourself to prepare for interviews then learn the landscape and what they're looking for. It's good practice.

GOOD LUCK!
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Tracy’s Answer

Hi there,
First, don't get discouraged or give up, your tenacity will shine through. Try thinking outside the box. What I mean by that is don't be afraid to look into internships that are in the same realm of what you want to end up doing. Any experience is a good thing. Being that you are so young you have the opportunity to take your time and do things properly. Also, never be afraid to ask for what you want. Only you know your worth and should always be treated with respect.
Make yourself some goals and put them somewhere that you can see them everyday. Don't be afraid to ask for what you want, the worst they can do is say no.
Lastly, do a few "projects" of your own so they can see what you can do. Create a few different marketing projects for businesses that you make up and go all out. They will then be able to see what you bring to the table while simultaneously keeping your skills up to date.

I wish you nothing but the best. Don't get discourages just keep your head up and go for it!

Good Luck,
Tracy N.
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Chandrima’s Answer

Tips For Gaining Experience?
I am a junior in college and I wish to enter into digital marketing or marketing in general. I am eager to get experience with internships or entry level jobs. I keep getting turned down unfortunately. Are there any tips or something else I should be doing to get my foot through the door into my career?


Hi Jade

First things first, don't get disheartened since you are not in this journey alone. The current job market is quite competitive and tough even with those having the right skills sets and experience, and so the road may be a game of patience. However as you are waiting through, you can do the following:
1) Continue to look for ways to up your skills in the digital marketing space. Leverage LinkedIn to get started on courses that offer up certifications in these areas, and then once completed, I would encourage you to highlight your certifications on LinkedIn.
2) Look for job sites like Indeed.com, and upload your profile, by answering their questions - if you get contract or internship opportunities in your field that don't pay much, but the role itself is good and can add to your experience, I would encourage you to explore these roles.
3) Explore your social network, community network, church groups, or other volunteering organizations that can make use of your skills. Not to sit idle, but find a way of gaining experience while giving back to the community, these often add back to when you attend job interviews and story tell the experience you have gained. It shows creativity, proactiveness and the ability of the individual to stay both patient while being creative in finding ways to enhance the experience (or the lack of it!).
4) Shortlist the kind of companies you would love to join - learn about them, go to their career postings, and look for opportunities that talk about hiring freshers. Read the job description and see if anything from 1), 2) and 3) above could apply. Weave the story in, and then wait!

Patience is critical, but while being patient, continue to hone your skills, learnings and experiences by doing things in the community, marketplace. Wishing you all the very best!
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Barry’s Answer

Jade, a great way to begin is by volunteering your time for free with organizations you’re interested in. Check out a company’s career and job search program online as you build connections. Have you thought about reaching out to your college friends or their parents’ employers? They could be a great resource!
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Tia’s Answer

Hello,

I agree with the earlier comments, but you can also contact the organization you're interested in working with. Let them know you're a college student interested in a tour. If they're back in the office, this gives you a chance to meet them in person. Keep checking job boards and the organization's career page.

Additionally, look for internship programs like Inroads.
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Laura’s Answer

Hello,

First of all, you going to need a lot of Resilience!

1. Rejections are part of the process. Learn from each experience and keep improving.
2. Positive Attitude: Maintain a positive outlook and stay motivated.
3. Mock Interviews: Practice with friends or use online platforms to simulate interview scenarios.
4. Research Companies: Understand the company’s values, products, and market position.
5.Entry-Level Jobs: Apply for roles that may not be your dream job but can provide valuable experience.

Always look for Online Courses: Take courses on platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning to build your skills.

Laura recommends the following next steps:

Rejections are part of the process. Learn from each experience and keep improving. Positive Attitude: Maintain a positive outlook and stay motivated.
Mock Interviews: Practice with friends or use online platforms to simulate interview scenarios.
Research Companies: Understand the company’s values, products, and market position.
Entry-Level Jobs: Apply for roles that may not be your dream job but can provide valuable experience.
Take courses on platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning to build your skills.
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Gishan’s Answer

Hello Jade,

This is unfortunately a common issue with college students and even grads. The best thing you can do in the meantime, is to leverage your resume and LinkedIn profile if you have one. If you don't have a LinkedIn, I strongly suggest to create one. It is a job networking platform to connect with classmates, professors, alumni and recruiters. You can showcase your work experience and skills on LinkedIn, which will make you noticeable to recruiters. Other than this, just have patience, build your skills, and don't give up :)

Best,
Gishan
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Hamza’s Answer

Hi Jade,

Firstly, I would suggest don't limit your scope of search to specific opportunities or platforms. Do actively reach out to people for any relevant opportunities - no harm in contacting people directly. Many people don't reach out directly for opportunities and depend on platforms. Also, for digital marketing, as others have mentioned, do look out for volunteering, non-profit opportunities, small businesses etc. But I would also suggest scope out local businesses for opportunities and pitch them your ideas to explore (Remember in most cases if the base is small, the scope of growth is also higher, plus it will provide you a more versatile platform to experiment at ground level). And lastly, do not get demotivated - no matter the rejections, no matter the type of employer you get or in case of anything not working as planned - look at it as learning opportunity for future growth.
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