How to Find a Job in Digital Marketing in New Zealand

Digital marketing is a rapidly growing field in New Zealand, offering a wide range of opportunities for individuals at different stages of their careers. Whether you’re a university student, a junior professional, or an experienced marketer, this guide will help you navigate the job market in NZ. Here’s how to find a job in digital marketing, broken down by experience level, including where to look, expected pay, and what to prepare.

1. For University Students

Starting a career in digital marketing while still at university can give you a significant advantage. Here’s how to get started:

1.1. Channels to Find Jobs

Student Job Search: Platforms like Student Job Search (SJS) specifically cater to university students looking for part-time work, internships, or entry-level positions.
University Career Services: Most universities in NZ have career services that offer job listings, career advice, and workshops. Check with your university’s career center.
Internship Programs: Many digital marketing agencies and companies offer internship programs. Websites like Intern NZ and GradConnection are good places to start.

1.2. Expected Pay

Internships: Most internships are either unpaid or offer a modest stipend. Paid internships typically offer $20 to $25 NZD per hour.
Part-Time Roles: Part-time roles in digital marketing can pay between $22 and $28 NZD per hour, depending on the responsibilities and the employer.

1.3. What to Prepare

Resume and Cover Letter: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant coursework, any digital marketing projects, and part-time jobs. Use platforms like Canva for templates.
Portfolio: Start a blog, create a social media account, or manage a small website to demonstrate your digital marketing skills. Include these in your portfolio.
Certifications: Earn certifications in tools like Google Analytics, Google Ads, and HubSpot to make your application stand out. Essential Certificates for a Digital Marketing Career

1.4. Networking

Attend Industry Events: Participate in marketing events like those hosted by the Marketing Association or attend webinars to build connections.
LinkedIn: Set up a LinkedIn profile, join relevant groups, and connect with industry professionals. This platform is essential for networking and job searching.

2. For Junior Professionals

If you have some experience but are still early in your career, focusing on skill development and networking is crucial.

2.1. Channels to Find Jobs

Job Boards: Use job boards like Seek, Indeed, and Trademe to search for junior roles in digital marketing.
LinkedIn Jobs: LinkedIn is not only a networking platform but also a powerful job search tool. Set up job alerts for digital marketing positions.
Recruitment Agencies: Consider signing up with agencies like Hays or Robert Walters that specialize in marketing roles.

2.2. Expected Pay

Junior Roles: Junior digital marketing roles typically offer between $45,000 and $60,000 NZD per year, depending on the company and location.

2.3. What to Prepare

Advanced Resume: Highlight any relevant experience, such as internships or freelance work. Tailor your resume to the specific role you’re applying for.
Portfolio Updates: Continuously update your portfolio with new projects, including any freelance work or certifications.
Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains your passion for digital marketing and your relevant skills.

2.4. Skill Development

Certifications: Pursue additional certifications, especially in specialised areas like SEO, content marketing, or PPC.
Online Courses: Enroll in online courses from platforms like Coursera or Udemy to stay up-to-date with the latest marketing trends.

3. For Experienced Marketers

For those with significant experience in digital marketing, focusing on leadership roles and specialized positions can help advance your career.

3.1. Channels to Find Jobs

Job Boards: Use job boards like Seek, Indeed, and Trademe to search for senior roles in digital marketing with the further filtering of salary etc.
Executive Search Firms: Use executive search firms like Spencer Stuart or Odgers Berndtson to find senior-level positions.
Industry-Specific Job Boards: Platforms like Digital Job Shop are tailored for digital marketing professionals looking for senior roles.
Direct Applications: Apply directly to companies known for their strong digital marketing teams, such as major agencies or large corporations.

3.2. Expected Pay

Senior Roles: Senior digital marketing roles, such as Digital Marketing Manager or Head of Marketing, typically offer between $80,000 and $120,000 NZD per year, depending on experience and company size.

3.3. What to Prepare

Leadership-Oriented Resume: Focus on leadership experience, significant achievements (please quantify them), and measurable results in your resume.
Portfolio and Case Studies: Include detailed case studies in your portfolio that showcase your impact on previous roles, particularly in driving revenue or growth.
Tailored Cover Letters: Customise your cover letter to highlight how your experience and leadership skills align with the company’s goals.

3.4. Continuing Education

Advanced Certifications: Consider certifications in areas like data analytics or AI in marketing.
Conferences and Workshops: Attend industry conferences such as the NZ Marketing Summit to stay connected with the latest trends and network with peers.
Thought Leadership: Publish articles on LinkedIn or industry blogs, and participate in speaking engagements to establish yourself as a thought leader.

Conclusion

Finding a job in digital marketing in New Zealand depends on your experience level and the channels you use to explore opportunities. University students should focus on internships and certifications, junior professionals should build their networks and expand their skills, and experienced marketers should target leadership roles while maintaining their professional development. By following these strategies, you can navigate the NZ job market and secure a rewarding career in digital marketing.