Is it Worth Getting a Digital Marketing Certification?

Pursuing a digital marketing certification is worth it. It will equip professionals with current industry best practices. Securing free certifications from reputable organisations like HubSpot and Google offers essential insights and standards to enhance your expertise. 

Let me explain the key benefits of obtaining a digital marketing certification. I have included industry experts' opinions to provide you with better clarity about digital marketing certifications.

Recognition and Demand in the Industry

In today's digital landscape, having digital marketing certifications can give professionals a significant edge in the industry. 

According to the 2023 Workplace Learning Report by LinkedIn, digital marketing skills are in high demand across different sectors.

“As businesses continue to establish an online presence, the demand for skilled digital marketers is steadily increasing, certifications from reputable institutions demonstrate rigorous training and a comprehensive understanding of digital marketing principles,” says Prasad Karthik, Content Strategist & SEO Trainer at Brain Cyber Solutions.

According to him, these certifications play a crucial role in showcasing expertise and dedication in the field.

Reputation and Credibility

I firmly believe that obtaining a digital marketing certification can significantly boost my credibility and professional reputation. 

Completing certifications from well-known organisations demonstrates my dedication to keeping up with industry trends and continuously learning. 

It's crucial to keep in mind that not all employers view certifications in the same light, as interview processes are changing. Many companies now prefer candidates who can demonstrate practical skills through tasks and projects, in addition to the theoretical knowledge gained through certifications.

Practical Assessments and Career Advancement

I've been thinking about the various career paths available to certified digital marketers. There are so many opportunities for growth and advancement, from roles like SEOs, SEMs, SMOs, SMMs, Content Strategists & Writers, Media Buyers, to Analysts. These roles often come with competitive salaries and chances for specialization.

When I'm looking to hire a content writer, I like to have them write a short blog as part of the assessment. This helps me evaluate their language skills, punctuality, and how well they adhere to SEO best practices, including heading tags, meta titles, meta descriptions, alt text, and EEAT practices. I believe this practical assessment is crucial to ensure that candidates are ready for the role, in addition to the theoretical knowledge they gain from certifications.

Syam K S, CEO of Brain Cyber Solutions, and a digital marketing veteran with over 20 years of experience emphasise the importance of practical assessments when hiring. 

He recalls interviewing his first PHP developer in 2005 with full internet access, assessing their problem-solving skills and solutions.

Costs and Return on Investment (ROI)

The expenses for digital marketing certification can vary significantly depending on the specific program and institution. While some certifications are available for free, others can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. It's important to carefully weigh the return on investment when determining the worth of a certification.

The Meta Blueprint certification, priced between $120 and $150 based on location, is highly esteemed among media buyers globally. Advertising agencies with substantial ad budgets have a preference for hiring professionals holding this certification, as it equips them with crucial insights into media best practices and platform-specific strategies. 

As mentioned by Shebin P T, a Paid Social Senior Executive at GroupM and Performance Marketing Consultant, this certification is a valuable investment for individuals aiming to pursue a career in digital marketing.

Akshin Nair, a Performance Marketing Consultant, noted that to become a Google partner agency, firms must meet two requirements: employing a minimum number of Google-certified staff and spending $10,000 across three to four ad types. This necessitates hiring certified professionals over their non-certified peers. 

The Badge vs. The Skill

There are two main approaches to obtaining a digital marketing certification: earning a badge and self-certification.

Industry experts like Abdul Latheef, an experienced IT professional and Marketing Head, note that many professionals pursue certification badges rather than genuine knowledge. 

This often leads to shortcuts, such as answer copying during the certification. 

Experienced interviewers can quickly spot these candidates, wasting time and money while hindering their career advancement.

Self-certification requires a disciplined approach to learning and skill development. 

As Muhammed Abdul Kalam ( Founder of verbup.app ), a Digital Marketing Leader, states, "To enhance the value of your digital marketing resume, you must self-certify by setting tasks for yourself, continuously upskilling, and staying informed about the latest industry standards." 

This method guarantees that the knowledge and skills you acquire are both authentic and applicable in real-world situations, making self-certified professionals highly sought after by employers.

 You can also seek guidance from a reputable digital marketing institute or mentor, though selecting the right one is a topic for another discussion.

Return on Investment (ROI)

Digital marketing certifications typically offer a high return on investment (ROI). 

According to a PayScale survey, “certified digital marketers earn significantly more than their non-certified peers”. 

The knowledge gained through certification enhances marketing strategies, improving business performance and increasing demand for certified professionals. The credibility and recognition associated with certifications can accelerate career advancement and provide long-term financial benefits. 

Therefore, investing in a reputable certification program not only upgrades your skills but also significantly enhances your career trajectory and earning potential.

Does it make sense to pursue a digital marketing certification?

In today's fast-paced digital world, a digital marketing certification is the key to staying ahead. It provides a comprehensive knowledge transfer process that equips professionals with the latest industry best practices. 

The rigorous training and up-to-date insights, available through free programs from platforms like HubSpot or Google, or through paid, recognized institutions, are invaluable. 

These certifications not only enhance credibility and open up diverse career paths but also ensure long-term benefits and a high return on investment. By choosing the right certification approach, whether earning a badge or through self-certification, you can significantly boost your career in digital marketing. 

Ultimately, a digital marketing certification is a worthy investment for anyone serious about excelling in this dynamic field. 

Also Check Out: Most in-demand Digital Marketing Skills