The modern digital marketing industry is a rapidly evolving field encompassing a wide range of methods, channels and platforms. Effective digital marketing has become increasingly valuable as a core part of many organisations' broader marketing strategy, and proficient digital marketers can be fundamental for overall growth and success. In this article, we explain why CPD training is important for digital marketers, including the key advantages and where to find suitable courses to advance your professional career.
What is digital marketing?
Digital marketing is the term used for marketing activity that is presented through technology-based channels. The field of digital marketing is fast-moving and dynamic. Innovations, best practices and technological developments all impact the implementation of a successful digital marketing strategy. Some of the main online methods include social media, search engine optimisation (SEO), digital advertising and email.
Due to the variety of potential channels available, strategy is a crucial aspect of digital marketing through the establishing of clear goals, a deep awareness of a specific brand or product, and an understanding of the most effective marketing avenues to utilise. Digital marketing will often focus on the best methods of directing consumers to an organisation’s website or landing page, to ensure they engage with a specific product or service.
Why is CPD important for digital marketing?
CPD stands for Continuing Professional Development and is the term used to describe the learning activities individuals engage in to develop and enhance their abilities throughout their career. At its core, CPD is about a commitment to lifelong learning and this is crucial for digital marketing professionals. Due to the rapid developments within the industry, digital marketers are required to continuously learn and develop their knowledge in the field. Participating in CPD can ensure digital marketers stay up to date with current trends and technologies, and help introduce new concepts and knowledge that may provide value to an organisation’s marketing strategy.
Digital marketers can engage with CPD in various areas to improve their proficiency. This may include learning in topics such as digital advertising, social media, SEO, marketing strategy, data analysis and copywriting. Professionals can focus on specific learning that is relevant to their own skill needs and career development. Digital marketers can also make use of the CPD cycle to effectively plan and analyse their CPD participation.
The advantages of CPD for digital marketers
Digital marketers should be constantly developing their skills and knowledge to be effective within the field. Through ongoing CPD, digital marketing professionals can look to improve by focusing on specific aspects of digital marketing, such as a relevant channel or current industry trend. Professionals are also able to gain a broader understanding of the industry, which in turn can help inform which channels and strategies they should be focusing on. Here are a few key advantages of CPD for digital marketers:
Improve digital marketing strategy
Strategy is at the core of digital marketing. Participating in CPD can help digital marketers refine and develop their approach and provide continued value to their organisation. An advanced digital marketing strategy can help organisations be more effective in their marketing efforts, which ultimately leads to more customers for less cost.
Discover emerging channels
The field of digital marketing is vast and dynamic, and digital marketers who can identify and utilise emerging channels will gain an advantage over competitors. Engaging in CPD training can help digital marketers learn about a variety of new channels that are relevant within their industry to understand which ones have the most viability for their organisation.
Make best use of social media
Social media and digital marketing CPD can help professionals develop key skills and knowledge in the area of social media. Organic social media marketing can provide significant value to an organisation when implemented effectively. Organisations can utilise different features and trends on social media to gain exposure to their audience. This can achieve more sales conversions and often without the high costs associated with advertising.
Grow an audience
Digital marketing CPD learning can help professionals understand how to develop an audience for their brand. Content on social media can be an effective way for organisations to maintain a relationship with their audience and encourage repeat custom and growth. CPD can also help professionals understand how to successfully grow audiences through mailing lists and other digital marketing channels.