What is Digital Marketing – Types, Strategies, How to Do it, Skills, Careers and Benefits

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Last updated on March 26th, 2024 at 07:09 am

Do you want to know “What is Digital Marketing”?

Imagine putting up a poster on your street. How many people do you think will see it?

Now, think about putting the same message online. The reach is way bigger!

Over 4.5 billion people use the internet, and they spend an average of 6 hours and 43 minutes online each day.

So, if you want to connect with a large audience, digital marketing is the way to go.

Here’s a fact: Businesses that use digital marketing strategies have 2.8 times higher revenue growth expectancy.

Digital marketing is not just about reaching more people, it’s about reaching the right people.

Through tools like targeted ads and personalized content, you can connect with individuals who are more likely to be interested in what you offer.

It’s like having a conversation with people who are already curious about your business.

What exactly is Digital Marketing?

basics of digital marketing

Think of digital marketing as a big online billboard for your business.

It’s the way companies use the internet to promote their products or services.

Whether it’s through websites, social media, emails, or ads, digital marketing helps businesses reach people on their computers, phones, and tablets.

Did you know that 61% of global internet users research products online?

This is what Digital Marketing does, making sure businesses are visible and engaging where people spend their time online.

Types of Digital Marketing

Digital marketing is like a toolbox with different tools for different jobs. Here are some of the tools:

1. Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

It’s like making your website attractive to search engines.

When done right, it helps your site show up higher when people search for things.

About 68% of online experiences start with a search engine, so SEO is like giving your website a better chance to be seen.

2. Social Media Marketing

Imagine your business is having a conversation at a party.

Social media is like a microphone that lets you talk to a lot of people at once.

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Over 3.6 billion people use social media globally, making it a powerful tool for businesses to connect with their audience.

3. Email Marketing

Ever get emails from your favourite stores with special offers?

That’s email marketing.

It’s like sending personalized messages directly to people who are interested in your business.

On average, email marketing generates $42 for every $1 spent, making it a cost-effective way to reach customers.

4. Content Marketing

This is about creating and sharing valuable content to attract and engage your audience.

It’s like telling a good story that people want to hear.

Content marketing costs 62% less than traditional marketing and generates about 3 times as many leads.

5. Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising

Imagine paying only when someone clicks on your ad. That’s PPC advertising.

It’s like having a billboard that you only pay for when people are interested enough to look closer.

Businesses make an average of $2 in income for every $1 they spend on Google Ads.

Digital Marketing Strategies

Think of digital marketing strategies as game plans to score big online.

Just like a coach plans different moves for a soccer game, you plan different strategies to connect with your audience.

Businesses that use a well-planned digital marketing strategy are 2.8 times more likely to experience revenue growth.

Define Your Goals: It’s like deciding what score you want to achieve.

Whether it’s more website visitors, sales, or brand awareness, setting clear goals helps guide your digital marketing efforts.

Understand Your Audience: Imagine knowing exactly who’s cheering for your team.

Understanding your audience helps tailor your marketing messages to the right people.

About 72% of consumers say they only engage with personalized messaging.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO): This strategy is like optimizing your team’s performance.

With good SEO, your website can rank higher on search engines, making it easier for people to find you.

About 75% of users never scroll past the first page of search results.

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Content Marketing: Think of content marketing as creating plays for your team.

Valuable content attracts and engages your audience.

Businesses that prioritize content marketing get 6 times more conversions than those who don’t.

Social Media Engagement: Social media is like the halftime show.

Engaging with your audience on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter helps build a community around your brand.

Over 54% of social browsers use social media to research products.

Email Marketing Campaigns: This strategy is like sending invitations to a party.

Email campaigns keep your audience informed and interested.

For every dollar spent on email marketing, businesses make an average of $44 in return.

How to Implement Digital Marketing?

Now, let’s talk about putting these strategies into action. It’s like following a recipe to make a delicious cake.

You start by understanding your audience (who you’re baking the cake for), then choose the right ingredients (pick the best digital marketing channels), and finally, put everything together (implement your strategies).

Did you know that companies with a strong online presence can grow their revenue by 40% more than those without?

Create a Website: It’s like having a home base. A well-designed website is crucial for digital marketing success.

Choose Your Digital Channels: Think of this as picking the right players for your team.

Depending on your audience, choose the right digital marketing channels – SEO, social media, email, etc.

Develop Compelling Content: Content is like your game strategy. Create content that’s valuable, relevant, and interesting to your audience.

Leverage Social Media: Engage with your audience on platforms they use. Be consistent and authentic in your social media interactions.

Optimize for Search Engines: Make your website attractive to search engines through SEO. Use relevant keywords and ensure your site is user-friendly.

Run Paid Advertising Campaigns: Consider paid advertising to boost visibility. Platforms like Google Ads and social media ads can target specific audiences.

Measure and Analyze: This is like reviewing the game tape.

Use analytics tools to measure the success of your digital marketing efforts.

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Adjust your strategy based on what’s working and what’s not.

Essential Skills for Digital Marketers

Think of digital marketing as a big puzzle, and skills are the pieces that make it complete.

Some essential skills include Analytical Skills (to understand data and metrics), Creativity (to come up with engaging content), and Social Media Savvy (knowing your way around platforms like Instagram or Twitter).

Digital marketers with a mix of these skills are like versatile players in the marketing game, making them valuable assets to companies.

According to a survey, 69% of hiring managers say they struggle to find candidates with the right digital marketing skills.

Careers in Digital Marketing

Imagine a playground with various game options.

Careers in digital marketing are like choosing which game you want to play.

You could be a Social Media Manager (running social media accounts), an SEO Specialist (helping websites rank higher on Google), or even a Content Marketer (creating engaging content).

The digital marketing field is vast, offering diverse roles that cater to different interests and skills.

In fact, digital marketing job postings have increased by 44% in the last five years.

Benefits of Digital Marketing

Picture traditional marketing as a local newspaper, and digital marketing as a global magazine.

The benefits are like upgrading from black and white to vibrant colours.

Digital marketing is cost-effective, reaches a wider audience, and allows for targeted advertising.

Businesses using digital marketing strategies have a 2.8 times higher revenue growth expectancy.

It’s like having a magic wand that not only promotes your brand but also boosts your bottom line.

Wrapping Up – What is Digital Marketing

Digital marketing is like the modern way businesses promote themselves on the internet.

It involves using different online tools and platforms, such as social media, search engines, and emails, to connect with people who might be interested in their products or services.

Digital marketing is important because it helps businesses reach the right audience more effectively.