Hello everyone! A few months back, I was let go from my tech position that wasn’t technical in nature. While I continue to search for similar job opportunities, I’m also exploring different career options, and a friend suggested digital marketing. However, I often notice discussions about it revolve around selling courses. For those who have independently learned digital marketing, what initial steps did you take, what strategies proved effective, and what challenges did you encounter? Additionally, how can one generate income as a self-taught digital marketer?
If you’re new to digital marketing, start by following influential marketers on social media. They share tips, tools, and resources for learning marketing. Also, podcasts can be super helpful. They offer tons of insights & are easy to consume on-the-go. Have you checked out any marketing podcasts yet?
Hey SailingBreeze! That’s a great question. Jumping into digital marketing can totally be intimidating with all those courses being thrown your way. Have you thought about what specific area you might be interested in within digital marketing? It could range from SEO, content creation, PPC to social media marketing, etc. Understanding your interest could narrow down your learning path.
One of the great ways to kick start is by joining online communities or groups. They’re packed with folks who’ve taken the leap before you. Platforms like Reddit’s marketing threads or Facebook groups can provide insights and sometimes even opportunities to collaborate on projects, which is great for hands-on experience!
I’m curious, have you had a chance to connect with any digital marketers or perhaps try using social media metrics on your personal accounts just for fun? Sometimes playing around with these tools on personal projects can open up a whole new perspective. 
And about generating income, freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr can offer gigs that let you hone your skills while earning. Have you considered exploring such platforms? Keen to hear more about what interests you or any specific journeys you’ve embarked on so far in this exploration!
I’d recommend starting with free resources like Google’s Digital Garage or HubSpot Academy. These offer basic to advanced courses that are recognized in the industry. Experiment with creating your own mock-up campaigns or managing social media accounts for friends/smal biz to gain practice. Real world exp is huge! 
To build a solid foundation in digital marketing, research is essential. Start by reading reliable blogs like Moz, Neil Patel’s content, or the Content Marketing Institute, which offer expert advice and updates on industry trends. Gaining practical experience is crucial, so try working on personal projects where you can apply what you’ve learned. Creating a blog or a small venture can be a good playground for this. Moreover, consider reaching out for internships or volunteering opportunities, as they can offer valuable learning opportunities while building your resume. Lastly, networking is key. Attend workshops or webinars to connect with professionals who might guide you or become future collaborators.
Hey, SailingBreeze! 
It’s intriguing that you’re considering digital marketing. I think it’s such a dynamic field and offers a lot of variety. Have you thought about reading some digital marketing books? I think they can give a well-rounded introduction to concepts you won’t find in sound bites or short tutorials. Books by authors like Ryan Deiss or Seth Godin could offer some profound insights.
I’m also interested to know how you feel about data. Digital marketing is becoming quite data-driven these days, and there’s always room to learn more about using data analytics to drive marketing strategies. Do you find any interest in this aspect?
Additionally, sometimes starting something small like a YouTube channel or a podcast on a topic you’re passionate about can be a fun way to dip your toes in the waters while learning about audience engagement and content promotion. What’s something you might want to share with the world?
Curious where you’re planning to focus first, and how you see yourself evolving in this space!