Marketing has a wide range of opportunities, and it can be a tough task for early talents or recent graduates to know where to start their marketing career.

Unfortunately, not many people take the time to clarify their goals before jumping into their job search in marketing, which often makes them feel overwhelmed and lost in the daunting recruitment process.

Worst of all, when you don’t know about your career goals in marketing, you will rarely get responses or interview opportunities from potential employers.

With that said, you need to avoid saying “I’m open to any marketing roles” in your job search. Instead, spend time understanding your current skills and interests in marketing and clarifying a specific goal when searching for your next move.

Here are 5 resources that you as a jobseeker can explore when choosing a career path in marketing:

1. Take the 16 Personalities Test

This is a great way to learn about your strengths and potential. The more you understand yourself, the more likely you are to find a career path you’ll love. For example, if you thrive by interacting with people, then you may consider a PR or Social Media marketing role. If you like to analyze data, then you may consider an Analyst or Operation role. Marketing has all kinds of opportunities for various personalities. There is no limit.

2. Talk to marketing professionals

Connect with marketing professionals via LinkedIn or other platforms and set up informational interviews to learn about their current roles and career path. You can also use Eventbrite or Meetup to spot marketing-focused events and meet like-minded professionals in person.

3. Take FREE online courses on HubSpot Academy

HubSpot Academy provides lots of great online courses to help job seekers explore their interest in marketing. What’s more? They are all FREE courses. Hooray! Taking these courses not only helps you learn about various marketing roles, but it also allows you to polish your marketing skills without spending a dime.

4. Read various job descriptions posted in the market

If you are not able to talk to other marketing professionals yet, then reading job descriptions is a great way to learn about the role responsibilities and required skills for different marketing roles. I would suggest reviewing at least 3-5 job descriptions for a similar role and analyzing the information that you collect, then see if you enjoy solving those problems and completing those tasks on a daily basis.

5. Start with side projects

The best way to know if you like a specific role is by trying it out. You can volunteer for non-profit organizations or small businesses to help them with their marketing projects. This a great opportunity for you to get experience in different marketing roles and see which area you enjoy the most. You can find volunteer opportunities on VolunteerMatch and Idealist.

Let’s Connect!

Don’t skip the goal-setting step; it is critical that you narrow down your job search in marketing and put your effort toward ONE thing. That’s how you as a job seeker can stand out in the job market and achieve your goal in a short time.

For those seeking deeper clarity and guidance, my 1:1 marketing career coaching program offers personalized support to refine your career objectives and navigate the job market confidently.

Consider starting with this trial session focused on marketing career exploration to help you articulate and pursue your desired role.

BOOK A MARKETING CAREER EXPLORATION CALL WITH LYDIA!