Digital marketing is the perfect career for those who thrive in a fast-paced, results-oriented environment. And it certainly doesn’t hurt that the average base pay is $67,230 according to Glassdoor.

But since there isn’t a barrier to entry, those looking to start a career in marketing are facing some tremendous odds.

Here are five tips you can use to help jumpstart your digital marketing career.

1) Network

No one, no matter the industry, begins a successful career alone. It always helps to have connections and contacts that can put in a good word for you or slip your resume to the right person.

Therefore, one of the best ways to jumpstart your digital marketing career is through networking.

In fact, networking is so powerful that 85 percent of all positions are filled through networking of some sort.

Reach out to industry professionals via LinkedIn or start attending local events. Most industries hold special networking events, so look out for some in your area.

You may also want to reach out to recruiting firms. There are plenty of great online digital marketing recruitment firms that can match you with the perfect employer.

2) Have an Open Mind

When entering a new field, especially one as competitive as digital marketing, it’s important to keep an open mind.

You’re probably not going to land that marketing gig at Apple right off the bat. There’s no shame in working with smaller or local businesses to get your feet wet.

Search for businesses in your area that may need some help with their digital marketing.

Every bit of experience you get makes you a stronger marketer. The important thing is that you land a gig and start learning.

3) Read Everything

Thanks to the internet, you have a bigger advantage than marketers in any other era. You have instant access to terabytes of information on digital marketing, so take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.

While there are tons of great books on digital marketing, the field moves so fast that they quickly become outdated.

Find some blogs and websites you trust and read their content on a regular basis.

4) Be Your Own Client

If you’re looking to beef up your resume and improve your skills at the same time, you can start immediately by creating your own campaigns.

Set out to work on your own personal branding by using the tools and websites you’d use in the workplace on your own personal brand.

You’ll gain relevant job experience, you won’t have to spend anything, and it’s a great way to drum up some publicity for yourself.

5) Learn From The Experts

Submerge yourself in the digital marketing world by choosing a few current ad campaigns to follow.

It can be something interesting you see on Snapchat, a paid Facebook ad or an email marketing newsletter.

Pay attention to what the experts do, then turn around and incorporate these tools into your own work.

Start Your Digital Marketing Career With These Tips

It can be tough to find your start in the marketing world, but be sure to keep these tips in mind. You’ll soon become a more renowned, well-rounded marketing expert that companies are begging to hire.

Looking for more great career info? Be sure to follow the Working Home Guide career blog to learn more great strategies for finding the perfect career.