18 answers
Jade
Student
Newport News, Virginia
1
Question
Updated
427 views
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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18 answers
Dierdra Yates, CMP®
Communications
4
Answers
St. Louis, MO
Updated
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!
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!
Cindy Angulo, MBA
Digital Strategy
1
Answer
Livingston, New Jersey
Updated
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!
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!
Vanessa Loverde
Marketing
2
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
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!
Tia Daniel
Client Services
4
Answers
San Ramon, California
Updated
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.
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.
Cristhian Gaibor
Consultant
3
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
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.
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.
Allison Jasper
Tax Accountant
6
Answers
St. Louis, MO
Updated
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
Stella Jiang
Financial consultant
3
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
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!
Gishan Ali
24
Answers
Clifton, New Jersey
Updated
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
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
Narpat Singh, MBA
IT Program Manager
2
Answers
Piscataway Township, New Jersey
Updated
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. 😊
Laura Martinez
3
Answers
Updated
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.
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.
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:
Tyler Nowaczyk
Billing Specialist
3
Answers
Bloomington, Illinois
Updated
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.
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.
Marsha Tatulyan
Recruiter
2
Answers
Novi, Michigan
Updated
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.
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.
Elly Bronce
Auditor
1
Answer
Irvine, California
Updated
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.
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.
Brenda Gunderson
Account Director for a Marketing & Communications Agency
2
Answers
Danville, California
Updated
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
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
Barry Long
Channel Strategy and Program Management
4
Answers
Los Gatos, California
Updated
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!
Hamza Shaikh
Business Manger
2
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
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.
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.
Sabrina DuVall
Marketing
4
Answers
Vancouver, Washington
Updated
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
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
Charlotte Geiger
Public Health Science Student at the University of Maryland
110
Answers
Sykesville, Maryland
Updated
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.
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.