Unlocking Potential at the University of Salford: My Career in Digital Marketing and the Skills Shaping My Success

At the midpoint of my life, I have finally gained clarity that I must pursue a career in digital marketing. In today's digitally-driven world, I feel highly optimistic about my decision, as digital marketing has emerged as a top-paying career choice with businesses increasingly leveraging online platforms for social media campaigns. Despite the promising prospects, it was not easy for me to move to a new country, leaving my beautiful wife and child in Pakistan. But, sometimes in life, you have to take difficult steps and tough decisions, in order to achieve something bigger.

Since my undergraduate studies, it has been my aspiration to immerse myself in one of the world's premier educational systems. This long-held ambition has culminated in my current academic pursuits within the realm of digital marketing in the United Kingdom. The University of Salford has been instrumental in this journey, providing unparalleled support and resources that have been pivotal in realizing my dreams.

The University of Salford's robust curriculum and expert faculty have equipped me with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in this dynamic industry. The practical learning approach adopted by the university, which integrates theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, has significantly enhanced my understanding and proficiency in digital marketing. Additionally, the opportunity to engage with a diverse student body has enriched my learning experience, offering multiple perspectives and insights into the global digital marketplace.

In addition, in my first two modules, Digital Marketing Communications and Search and Social Media Marketing, I have gained a lot of knowledge about the quickly changing digital environment. I have got understanding that digital marketers are expected to adopt creative strategy as they create digital content across various digital marketing platforms, including social media accounts and company websites. The demand for Digital Marketers is expected to increase significantly across industries. According to Expert Market research, the digital marketing market is projected to reach a value of approximately $1099 billion by 2032 worldwide.

How to build a Career in Digital Marketing?

Salford Business School has provided me with networking opportunities and career support services, which have broadened my understanding of the crucial steps necessary to build a career in digital marketing. Following steps are guideline for all those who want to build a successful career in digital marketing.

Develop Understanding of Digital Marketing Fundamentals: To build a successful and promising career in digital marketing, you must have a deep understanding of core concepts and techniques in email marketing, TikTok marketing, SMO, influencer marketing, content marketing, search engine marketing, web development, SEO management, Lead generation and video marketing.

Gain Relevant Skills: If you are creative and passionate to grow in the field of digital marketing, it is essential to develop a few skills to deepen your understanding. Content creation, Meta ads, market analysis, Ad copywriting, media management, Advertising campaigns, Google Analytics, and video production are crucial skills that provide you with a competitive edge over your competitors.

Get Certifications: Go and search for relevant and required certifications in the field of digital marketing. To get an idea, you can also explore the profiles of professionals in your specialized area. Many reputable institutes offer free online courses. These certifications strengthen your profile and leave a positive impression on recruiters.

Online Presence on Digital Platforms. Build a strong profile on all social media channels such as LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Showcase all your relevant skills and certifications, as it will have a significant impact on your target audience. It will also keep you updated about the latest market trends.

Gain Practical Exposure: Look for opportunities to acquire practical experience in digital marketing through internships, freelance assignments, or volunteer initiatives. Engaging in such endeavors enables you to implement your knowledge in real-world scenarios and develop a strong portfolio.

Develop a Network: Develop strong relationships with other professionals in your digital marketing industry. This will keep you updated about the latest trends and best practices and help you find new opportunities for career progression.

Specialize in a Niche: There is a diverse set of skills in the field of digital marketing. Depending on your strengths and interests, you should choose a specific area in which you want to become an expert. For example, someone may want to specialize in SEO, while another may focus on social media marketing.