Here's how you can navigate the lack of experience in digital strategy when transitioning careers.

Transitioning careers can be challenging, especially when you lack experience in a specific field like digital strategy. One way to bridge the gap in experience is by taking online courses and earning industry-recognized certifications. Platforms like Google Skillshop and Hubspot offer a wide range of courses that cover various aspects of digital strategy. While online courses and certifications are valuable, hands-on experience is equally important. Consider volunteering or taking on freelance projects to gain practical experience in digital strategy. This will allow you to apply the knowledge you've gained from online courses and certifications to real-world scenarios.

Digital Strategy: New Path, Bright Future Highlight transferable skills: Analyze your past experience - communication, project management, data analysis can be valuable assets. Gain foundational knowledge: Take online courses, attend workshops, or earn certifications in digital marketing and strategy. Build a portfolio: Volunteer for digital projects, create a personal website showcasing your skills and strategic thinking. Network strategically: Connect with digital strategy professionals on LinkedIn and attend industry events to learn and build relationships. Start small and showcase results: Look for entry-level digital strategy roles or freelance opportunities to gain experience and demonstrate your value.

Navigating the lack of experience in digital strategy when transitioning careers starts with building relevant skills. Enroll in online courses and certifications offered by platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning to gain foundational knowledge in areas such as SEO, content marketing, and data analytics. Participate in webinars and workshops to stay updated on industry trends and best practices. Create a portfolio showcasing personal projects or volunteer work to demonstrate your capabilities. By proactively developing your skillset, you can bridge the experience gap and present yourself as a knowledgeable and capable candidate in the digital strategy field.

Three tips from my personal experience after 12+ years in the digital strategy space as an entrepreneur, CXO, strategy consultant and recruiter: ???1. Nothing beats experience: When I entered the digital space, I had a strong strategy background but lacked digital experience. So I started advising tech startups for free on their business plan, strategy and organization. In more than 50 cases, I learned invaluable lessons. ??2. Use signaling: Business schools like LBS, MIT, Harvard Business School or INSEAD have excellent brands and offer great digital strategy courses. Use them to raise your profile and connect with digital leaders. ??3. Read the classics: Books like "The Innovator's Dilemma" or "The Lean Startup" are a must.

Finding the right mentor is like going on a blind date - you might have to go through a few awkward encounters before you find "the one" who truly gets you and your career aspirations! * Identify experienced digital strategy professionals, either within your company or industry. Reach out and explain your goals transparently. * Leverage your network and alumni associations to get introductions to potential mentors. * Attend industry events, join online communities, and follow thought leaders to increase your visibility. * When you find a promising mentor, be upfront about your learning needs and the time commitments you can offer. * An ideal mentor should challenge you, provide honest feedback, and open doors to new opportunities.

The magic of mentorship goes beyond career advice. It's about building a relationship with someone who believes in your potential, challenges you to grow, and celebrates your successes. During a career transition, that kind of support can be a lifeline, offering not just guidance, but also encouragement and a renewed sense of purpose. Mentors will help keep your head straight with sound advice and can open new doors. Build a fortress of people around you. The 7 people that can help you thrive and achieve your goals. If you do, you will prosper!

Gaining hands-on experience in digital strategy is like being a culinary student - you can read all the recipes, but until you actually get into the kitchen and start cooking, you'll never master the craft! * Look for entry-level roles, internships or freelance gigs that allow you to get your feet wet in digital strategy execution. Volunteer to take on digital projects for non-profits, startups or local businesses to build your portfolio. * Enroll in online courses or boot camps that provide training combined with real-world projects. * Develop your own test website, blog or social media presence to experiment with digital marketing tactics. * Seek out job shadowing opportunities to observe experienced digital strategists in action.

Networking is key for any career change 1. Industry Events: Attend digital marketing conferences, workshops, or webinars (even virtual ones) to connect with industry professionals, learn about new developments, and potentially find mentorship opportunities. 2. LinkedIn: Connect with people working in digital strategy, join relevant groups, and participate in discussions to expand your network and gain visibility. 3. Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals working in roles you aspire to for informational interviews. Ask about their career paths, challenges, and advice for someone starting

It is also important to highlight transferable skills: - Identify Relevant Skills: Many skills from other industries are transferable to digital strategy. For example, strong communication, analytical thinking, project management, or creativity can be valuable assets. - Tailor Your Resume: Emphasize how your previous experiences and transferable skills align with the requirements of digital marketing roles. - Create a Strong Portfolio: Even without direct experience, you can create a portfolio showcasing your personal projects, volunteer work, or freelance projects to demonstrate your capabilities.