Fall in love with Marketing this Valentine's Day: 5 FREE resources to ignite your passion

Marketing is love, and love is marketing. On this Valentine's Day, let's celebrate the love we have for this amazing field & make it grow stronger.

In a world where so-called "experts" promise to transform you into a “marketing ninja” or “digital superstar” in a matter of hours, it's time to separate the wheat from the chaff. It's time to shake off the notion that there's some guru out there who'll suddenly turn you into an expert. Trust me, that's just not how it works – no one can call themselves an expert in the field of marketing, let alone make someone that. We are, and will always be, the students of the game. The path to becoming better is built on a foundation of hard work, dedication, and the constant pursuit of knowledge.

But you don't need to spend a fortune to get started (or ahead)!

There are plenty of free online resources that can give you a solid grounding in the fundamentals of (digital) marketing. Here are five that I recommend:

1) Google Digital Garage:

Google Digital Garage is a free, comprehensive resource for digital marketing education from, well, Google. With practical, focused modules, it offers actionable insights for businesses and individuals looking to enhance their online presence. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a newcomer, the platform provides a deeper understanding of digital marketing principles and practices. With a focus on helping you succeed; Google Digital Garage is the place to level up your digital marketing skills.

2) Hubspot Academy:

Hubspot Academy is a remarkable resource for those seeking to master the art of modern marketing. It's a place where you can explore, experiment, and expand your understanding of what's possible in a world where technology, creativity, and connection collide. Each course is focused, practical, and actionable, offering real-world examples and case studies to bring the concepts to life.

3) Google Analytics Academy:

Google Analytics Academy is a treasure trove for those looking to gain a deeper understanding of data and how it can drive success in a digital world. It's an invitation to explore, experiment, and expand your thinking about the role that data plays in shaping our online experiences. At Google Analytics Academy, you'll find a collection of courses that are designed to help you make data-driven decisions and drive results for your business.

4) Alison:

Alison is a platform for lifelong learning, providing a vast collection of courses for individuals seeking to expand their knowledge and skills. It's a place where you can explore, experiment, and expand your understanding of the world around you. At Alison, you'll find a diverse collection of courses that are designed to help you grow your impact, your influence, and your income.

5) Facebook Blueprint:

Facebook Blueprint is a comprehensive digital marketing education platform from Facebook. It offers a wide range of courses and resources designed to help marketers and businesses of all sizes understand the opportunities and best practices of marketing on Facebook and Instagram. With Facebook Blueprint, you can learn how to create impactful campaigns, reach your target audience, and measure the results of your marketing efforts.

These resources aren't just about theory, they're about action - perfect for those starting their careers in marketing or looking to up their game.

But marketing, especially digital marketing, isn't just about what you know. It's about what you do & how you do it. That's why it's essential to get your hands dirty, to practice, to experiment. If you have the chance, do an internship at a reputable agency or brand to learn from the best. The more you learn, the more you'll grow.

So, whether you're just starting out in the industry or looking to refresh your skills, show yourself some love this Valentine's Day and invest in your future. You'll be amazed at how much you'll learn and how much you'll grow.

Happy learning!