Emerging Technologies Transforming the Digital Landscape
In the dynamic world of digital media, the landscape is constantly evolving, and so are the requirements for aspiring professionals. Here's a breakdown of the key steps and valued qualifications for those looking to make their mark in this exciting field.
Formal Education & Certifications
A graduate degree in digital marketing communications or related fields provides a solid foundation and advanced knowledge. For instance, programs such as West Virginia University’s online M.S. in Digital Marketing Communications cover SEO, paid and organic search, social media marketing, marketing automation, content marketing, analytics, and storytelling. Students can also earn multiple industry-recognized certifications embedded in coursework to demonstrate practical skills to employers [1].
Internships and Graduate Schemes
Participating in internships or graduate schemes with established publishers, media companies, or agencies offers hands-on experience, professional references, and often leads to permanent roles. These opportunities are competitive but crucial for building a career in media [2].
Freelance Work
Building a portfolio via freelancing on digital media platforms helps gain diverse experience and demonstrates capability and reliability to potential employers [2].
Networking
Building strong professional relationships with editors, professors, and industry experts can open doors for opportunities, references, and mentorship [2].
Technical and Analytical Skills
Proficiency in using digital service providers (DSPs) and analytics tools, especially relevant in digital music or content distribution contexts, is highly valued. Familiarity with platforms like Spotify for Artists or Chartmetric is valued in specialized roles [3].
Soft Skills
Employers highly value excellent written and verbal communication, organization, detail orientation, proactive time management, and the ability to work collaboratively on fast-paced campaigns [3].
Additional Skills
Understanding consumer engagement ethics, audience segmentation, multi-channel analytics, and content marketing techniques enhances a candidate’s appeal [1].
The Importance of a Portfolio
A graduate needs to present a portfolio to secure an entry-level job in the digital media industry. An online portfolio is essential for an entry-level job applicant in the digital media industry [4]. Quality projects in the portfolio should demonstrate the ability to tell a clear and concise message, think creatively, translate skills into marketable media, and self-direct or work on a team [4].
The Rise of Freelance and Self-Employed Individuals
In digital media, there is an increase in freelance and self-employed individuals replacing salaried employees [5]. Smaller studios heavily rely on project-based freelance hires, while larger corporations tend to hire salary positions with benefits, and agencies tend to hire both salaried and longer contract freelance positions [5].
The Essential Skills for a New Hire
A new hire in the digital media industry should be fluent in Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere, Prelude, Media Encoder, and Audition. Other valued skills include basic cinematography, audio recording, script writing, producing, directing, color, After Effects, InDesign, Story Basic, Dreamweaver, Lightroom, Muse, Avid, FCP, design fundamentals such as composition, color theory, 123 shot patterns, a command of basic 3 act script structure, logo and branding, and typography [6].
The Role of Natalie La Scala
Natalie La Scala, with 20 years of work experience in Creative Direction, Project Management, Higher Education, Instructional Design, Curriculum Development, and Software Training and Instruction, is currently focused on creating dynamic content that people can put to use [7]. Some recent clients of Natalie La Scala include Z1CareerZone, Engage, LLC, and the Performing Arts Academy [7].
The First Three Months of a New Job
The first three months of a new job are crucial for determining if it is the right fit [8]. During this period, it's essential to demonstrate adaptability, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn and grow within the role.
Applying for Degree and Certificate Programs in Digital Media
For those interested in pursuing education in digital media, the website provides more information on applying for degree and certificate programs [9]. An Associates degree is a minimum for entry-level employees in the digital media industry [10].
Employers are looking for a blend of academic knowledge, practical experience, industry certifications, digital platform expertise, and interpersonal skills. Building a foothold involves studying relevant courses, gaining applied experience via internships or freelance gigs, actively networking in the industry, and continuously updating technical skills aligned with evolving media landscapes.
[1] West Virginia University’s online M.S. in Digital Marketing Communications
[2] Careers in Media: The Ultimate Guide
[3] 10 Essential Skills for Digital Media Professionals
[4] How to Build a Killer Digital Portfolio
[5] The Freelance Economy: Understanding the Rise of Independent Workers
[6] The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Digital Media Specialist
[7] Natalie La Scala: Creative Direction, Project Management, and More
[8] How to Survive Your First Three Months in a New Job
[9] Digital Media Programs at Our Institution
[10] Entry-Level Jobs in Digital Media: Requirements and Salaries
In the digital media industry, attaining a graduate degree in digital marketing communications or related fields, such as West Virginia University’s online M.S. in Digital Marketing Communications, not only provides a solid foundation but also advanced knowledge in SEO, paid and organic search, content marketing, and analytics. Additionally, freelance work is essential for building a diverse portfolio that showcases a candidate's skills and reliability, helping them secure an entry-level job.
