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Dr. Joie Hain is a seasoned academic and industry professional, bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge to her role as a professor at Clayton State University. With a diverse background spanning over several decades, Dr. Hain holds an undergraduate degree in Accounting, an MBA in Finance, and a Doctorate in Marketing. Her career trajectory includes notable positions such as a financial analyst, a tech team manager from the early days of the internet, and a commission sales manager for one of the largest national banks.
Connect with her to learn more.
Listen to the Podcast Here, or Find it Wherever You Get Your Podcasts:
Here are Five Things We Cover:
- Broad Understanding of Digital Marketing: Dr. Hain emphasized the importance of understanding the vast scope of digital marketing beyond simply social media and influencer roles. Knowing the foundational elements such as target markets, product definition, SEO, and content strategies is essential for a successful career.
- Building a Personal Brand Early: Leveraging platforms like LinkedIn to build a personal brand while still in college can significantly enhance job prospects. Dr. Hain advises starting from freshman year and maintaining professional profiles, ensuring they reflect your skills and experiences accurately.
- Hands-On Experience Through SimTurnships: Clayton State University incorporates simulations and community engagement projects into their curriculum to provide hands-on, practical experience. These realistic industry scenarios prepare students for real-world challenges and equip them with problem-solving skills.
- Networking and Utilizing Campus Resources: Networking is crucial for career development. Dr. Hain suggests taking full advantage of campus activities, career services, and connecting with peers and faculty. Opportunities like resume training, mock interviews, and even obtaining professional attire are available and underutilized resources.
- Staying Current in a Rapidly Changing Field: The field of digital marketing is constantly evolving. Dr. Hain highlighted the importance of reading foundational texts, obtaining industry certifications, and continuously updating skills to stay relevant. Recognizing that techniques and technologies will shift, but the underlying principles remain enduring.
Here are Three Actionable Takeaways From This Episode
1. Build a Comprehensive Personal Brand
- Action: Utilize LinkedIn to its fullest potential. Ensure that your profile is optimized with a professional headshot, a well-crafted summary, and detailed experiences.
- Execution: Start posting relevant content, such as your insights on digital marketing trends or sharing articles. Join LinkedIn groups related to digital marketing to engage in conversations and networking.
- Follow-Up: Regularly update your profile with new skills, certifications, and projects to keep it current and appealing to recruiters.
2. Gain Hands-On Experience Through Internships and Simulations
- Action: Seek internships or part-time roles in digital marketing early in your college career. Utilize university resources, such as career services, to find these opportunities.
- Execution: Participate in simulations, such as those offered by Stukent, to gain practical experience in digital marketing tasks. Treat these simulations as real-world projects to build your confidence and capabilities.
- Follow-Up: Reflect on what worked and what didn’t in both your internships and simulations. This will deepen your understanding and help you articulate your experiences during job interviews.
3. Expand Your Skill Set Continually with Industry Certifications
- Action: Enroll in and complete industry-recognized certifications in digital marketing, such as Google Analytics, HubSpot, and SEMrush.
- Execution: Dedicate time each week to study and practice what you’ve learned. Use online resources, practice exams, and study groups to help prepare you.
- Follow-Up: Add these certifications to your resume and LinkedIn profile. Mention them specifically during job interviews to showcase your commitment to continuous learning and staying up-to-date with industry standards.