Five Steps to Becoming an Internet Marketing Consultant

Step 1: Obtain an Education

Students interested in a marketing career should first complete high school and then continue on with a bachelor's degree program from an accredited university. Internet marketing is available as a concentration for some degree programs in business or general marketing. Many marketing programs require the completion of an internship during the final year or semester of college so students can apply the knowledge they have learned in a real office setting. A master's degree can be earned later on in the career.

Step 2: Gain Experience in the Industry

Professionals gain skills in the practical application of Internet marketing principles within the first few years of a career. Marketers collect and analyze complex data sets of customer trends to build a solid foundation for future consulting work. Within 3-4 years, professionals are able to provide insight and execute plans for client relationships. Senior-level marketers manage project timing, budgets and presentation of client accounts.

Step 3: Consider Specializing

Successful consultants are highly motivated and resourceful individuals. It is common to become an expert by focusing on a niche within the industry. Fields of specialization in Internet marketing include traffic generation, social media, advertising and nonprofit management.

Step 4: Evolve into a Consultative Role

Marketers interested in consulting work begin to branch out after achieving a solid foundation of Internet marketing tactics. New client identification and development are mastered. A complete understanding of search engine marketing (SEM) and search engine optimization (SEO) is essential.

Step 5: Enhance Services

Internet marketing consultants may practice independently or be employed by large firms with many other consultants. Many begin a career in a firm and take charge of their own services after gaining experience. Consultants can establish credibility through client success stories, posting blogs, contributing to newsletters and participating in industry panels.

Independent contractors can join the Institute of Management Consultants USA (IMC USA), which offers the Certified Management Consultant (CMC) designation and sponsors development programs. According to IMC USA, the CMC designation is awarded after applicants achieve an education, gain experience, submit client reviews and pass an interview and exam (www.imcusa.org). It is important that Internet marketing consultants keep up with trends and technological developments in the field through industry periodicals, networking, workshops and continued education courses.