We’re sure you’ve heard some of the common myths and misconceptions about apprenticeships –
- They aren’t as good as a degree
- They’re only suitable for people who struggled in school
- Apprentices don’t do ‘real’ work
Thankfully, more people (including employers) are realising just how valuable apprenticeships are. Boasting an array of benefits and with a whopping 92% of apprentices staying in employment after completion, an apprenticeship is a great option for those looking to begin or change careers.
As one of the most accessible industries, there are so many routes you can take to start your marketing career and digital marketing apprenticeships are one of them. But what is a digital marketing apprenticeship and what should you expect from it? Let’s dive in and take a look.
What is a digital marketing apprenticeship?
A digital marketing apprenticeship combines classroom style study with on the job training. You will learn how to create, implement and analyse effective marketing campaigns and put this into practice in the workplace. You have the opportunity to work alongside business owners and seasoned professionals in the workplace whilst working towards a qualification.
Why choose a digital marketing apprenticeship?
A digital marketing apprenticeship can help you get your foot in the door and boost your knowledge. Marketing leaders are increasingly seeing the value in recruiting apprentices as a way to build a diverse workforce and this demand will only continue to grow.
With a digital marketing apprenticeship you are able to earn whilst you learn! Apprentices are paid for their normal working hours and time spent on training that’s part of the qualification. There are different rates of pay, depending on age and length of an apprenticeship, but this will be confirmed in an employment contract –
Aged 16 to 18
The current National Minimum Wage rate for an apprentice is £5.28 per hour.
Aged 19 or over and in your first year
The current National Minimum Wage rate for an apprentice is £5.28 per hour.
Aged 19 or over and have completed your first year
You’re entitled to the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage rate for your age.
That being said, many employers do choose to pay their apprentices above minimum wage. This choice may be based on an apprentices role, responsibilities or the qualification they’re training for.
Work experience is often paramount, but it can be hard to come by. Arguably one of the most attractive aspects of a digital marketing apprenticeship is that it allows you to gain valuable, on the job work experience.
In a recent poll conducted on our LinkedIn community, 70% of people felt the biggest benefit of a digital marketing apprenticeship was the real-life industry experience.
What to expect from a digital marketing apprenticeship?
With on the job training, a salary, and guidance and support you can expect so much from a digital marketing apprenticeship including –
To understand different aspects of digital marketing
In the fast-paced world of digital marketing, no day is ever the same and it’s not easy. And, a marketing role goes far beyond posting an image on social media or writing a blog post. A digital marketing apprenticeship will help you understand the different aspects of a digital marketing role.
Whether it’s creating a responsive website that’s optimised for search engines or planning, implementing and analysing an engaging marketing campaign you will learn how to do this and why it’s so important.
The training required for your apprenticeship can be held on or offline with modules covering key marketing terms, website development, coding, analytics and search engine optimisation. Throughout your apprenticeship you will be set and required to complete practical and theoretical assignments to help solidify your knowledge. And, before finishing your apprenticeship you will complete an end-point assessment to ensure you’re competent in your chosen field.
Discover your marketing specialism
A marketing specialism is a particular area of marketing you can concentrate on. You can pick a specialism depending on your skill set and interests. For example, content or social media marketing.
A digital marketing apprentice can be responsible for implementing and analysing marketing campaigns, copywriting, content creation, and more. As a result you can try your hand at a number of marketing specialisms and discover which you’re most passionate about.
Expand your professional network
Your apprenticeship is the perfect opportunity to begin building your professional network. You may have the chance to attend workshops, seminars, and networking events – if so you should take them!
Going to these events can come with so many benefits –
- Discover new opportunities
- Build your confidence
- Get new ideas
- Develop personal and professional connections
If you’re thinking about or starting an apprenticeship it may feel daunting, you’re starting something new and diving into the working world. But rest assured, your apprenticeship will help you grow and develop into a productive marketer who’s reading to take their career to the next level!
Fancy hearing more about starting and building a successful marketing career? Check out The Girls in Marketing Podcast, where we get up close and personal with marketers revolutionising the industry so you can learn from the best in the game.
As marketers staying inspired is pivotal and, as we look ahead to 2024, we want to celebrate the women shaping the marketing landscape. Each year we spotlight women to follow with our list and this year is no different. But we’re mixing it because we want you to get involved!
Fancy a spot on the list or maybe you know someone who deserves one? You can nominate yourself or someone else to feature on our list by filling in the form here.
