Here's how you can enter the Content Strategy field as a recent graduate.

1 Build Skills

To enter the content strategy field, start by honing skills that are in high demand. This includes understanding user experience (UX) principles, search engine optimization (SEO), and the ability to analyze content performance. Dive into online courses or workshops that focus on these areas. Your goal is to become well-versed in creating content that resonates with audiences and meets business objectives. Practice by developing content strategies for hypothetical brands or volunteer to craft content plans for small businesses or non-profits.

2 Gain Experience

While formal education is valuable, real-world experience is crucial. Seek internships or part-time roles in content creation or marketing. Even if the position isn't explicitly labeled 'content strategy', any role that allows you to work with content, from writing to social media management, can be beneficial. Use these opportunities to understand the content lifecycle and how strategic content aligns with broader marketing goals. Document your successes and challenges as case studies for future interviews.

3 Portfolio Power

A strong portfolio can set you apart in the content strategy field. Include a variety of work samples that demonstrate your ability to think strategically about content. Highlight any projects where you've conducted content audits, created style guides, or developed content calendars. Your portfolio should not only showcase your writing skills but also your strategic thinking and planning abilities. Remember, the quality of work in your portfolio often speaks louder than the quantity.

4 Network Smartly

Networking is a powerful tool for breaking into any field, including content strategy. Attend industry meetups, join relevant online forums, and connect with professionals on social media. When networking, focus on building genuine relationships rather than seeking immediate job opportunities. Offer to help others with their projects and share your insights on content strategy topics. Through these connections, you may learn about job openings or find a mentor who can guide you in your career journey.

5 Understand Trends

The content strategy field is ever-evolving, with new trends emerging regularly. Stay informed by reading industry blogs, attending webinars, and following thought leaders on social media. Understanding current trends, such as the rise of video content or the importance of voice search optimization, will make you a more attractive candidate to employers. Show that you're not just aware of these trends but also know how to leverage them in a strategic way.

6 Master Tools

Lastly, familiarize yourself with the tools commonly used in content strategy. This includes content management systems (CMS), analytics platforms, and keyword research tools. You don't need to be an expert in every tool available, but having a solid understanding of how these tools aid in content planning and execution will demonstrate your readiness to tackle real-world projects. Practice using these tools through personal projects or during your internships to build confidence in your technical skills.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?