Interview With Erik (SEM Analyst)

1) Where were you born and raised? Also tell us something unique about yourself.

I was born in New York, and raised in South Florida, one unique thing about me is that I dropped out of high school at 17.

2) What got you interested in marketing and what was your journey?

After a few semesters in college, I realized it wasn’t the right path for me. I started exploring skill-based careers and discovered digital marketing through a YouTube channel. After completing an online course and gaining hands-on experience with freelance projects and running ads on my own website, I felt ready to apply for entry-level jobs. After several interviews and offers, I joined CMI Media Group, where I currently work.

3) What skills and industry do you specialize in?

I specialize in SEM and PPC, while the industry my agency focuses on is pharmaceutical.

4) What is your best soft skill?

I would say either teamwork or problem solving.

5) What softwares and tools do you use regularly?

I primarily work with SA360, followed by working in the Google and Bing engine UIs, as well as their respective editor software.

6) What are your goals for the next year and into the future?

My career goals include being promoted to a senior position or securing a similar role at another company. In the long term, Id like to return to freelancing as a side hustle. On a personal level, I’d like to travel more, with a goal of taking at least two international trips in the next year.

7) What has been the hardest thing you dealt with in your career path?

Imposter syndrome has been one of the hardest things I’ve dealt with, especially during my first year at this agency.

8) What is the biggest mistake you made that you want others to avoid?

Poor time management was a big mistake for me when i first started out. If I had created and stuck to a set schedule, I could have completed my course more quickly and started applying for jobs sooner.

9) Who are your favorite people in the industry that you follow?

Gary Vee and Neil Patel. Also, while not exclusively in the marketing industry, I enjoy content from Alex Hormozi and Chris Williamson

10) Who has had the biggest influence on your career to date?

My older brother, Jay, my supervisor Cansu and one of my 1st mentors Mike.

11) What has been your favorite course that you taken and why?

Seth Hyme's In Demand Career Digital Marketing course. I appreciated its affordability and how it provided a strong foundation for landing my first job in the field. The course is focused and practical. It helps build the essential skills needed to secure that first role without any unnecessary content. It provided me with all the tools to start a career in PPC or SEO. It also offered guidance on creating a solid resume and cover letter, which was incredibly helpful when i began applying to jobs.

12) What would you tell yourself or someone who is just starting out in marketing?

I would say manage your time well. Set aside time every day to learn about digital marketing, even if it’s just 15 minutes at first, then gradually increase the time. It’s okay to make mistakes as long as you learn and grow from them. Don’t let self-doubt stop you—know that success in this field is possible if you keep moving forward and continue learning. Find a good mentor, and never become complacent.

13) If the entire world was listening to you, what would you have to say?

I would say be kinder to yourself and others. Be wary of accruing massive debt. Focus on learning a marketable skill, then collaborate with people you trust and care about to build wealth, gain freedom, and support both your loved ones and those in need. Be a good mentor, share knowledge instead of hoarding it. Set goals that others might think impossible and strive to achieve them.

Leave the world better than you found it. And, last but not least, Go Giants!

14) Where can we find you?

Linkedin.