How to Make $60k Within a Year of Graduating

Any recent grad can make $60k within a year of graduating.

That’s what Seth Hymes, a graduate of NYU and a Paid Search Specialist at Digital Message Maximizer, teaches in his free mini-course for recent grads. WayUp sat down with Seth to figure out how graduating seniors and recent grads can make their way to a great job and great pay in the digital marketing world.

1. You don’t need to be a marketing or computer major.

Your major does not define your career path, and digital marketing is no exception to this rule. Seth was formerly an unemployed film major before entering into this field and ended up making $60k after a year in the industry and $100k/year after 3 years. He’s now been a successful digital marketer for 5 years.

Digital marketing positions are well-suited for college grads who are not only web and tech savvy, but who also have excellent analytical and writing skills. “It’s more about how creatively you can come up with ads and get people’s attention online than coding, super technical skills, or traditional marketing,” Seth says.

2. You do, however, need to teach yourself how to use online marketing platforms and concepts.

Digital marketing is far more accessible than traditional advertising. You can easily educate yourself online and even set up and run your own campaigns to get experience.

The most important thing you’ll need in this type of role is an eagerness to learn. The digital marketing landscape changes rapidly, so it’s important to stay on top of trends: Employers will expect you stay current as you lead the company’s next marketing campaign.

3. Apply even if you don’t have years of experience.

Because of the major shortage of skilled workers in the Digital Marketing field, the barrier for entry is lower than in other industries. “Even if a company says they want 2-3 years of experience, they will often hire passionate people who have limited experience and knowledge of online marketing (paid search, SEO, social, and email) and teach you on the job,” Seth says.

Make sure you don’t let your major or your lack of experience keep you from applying to a great job in digital marketing. Focus instead on what you do bring to the table so that employers can immediately see your value.

Check out Seth’s free mini-course on how to become a great digital marketer right out of college.