Starting in digital marketing involves several steps to build a solid foundation and develop practical skills. Here’s a guide:

1. Learn the Basics: Begin by understanding core digital marketing concepts such as SEO (Search Engine Optimization), content marketing, social media marketing, email marketing, paid advertising, and analytics. Free online resources like blogs, YouTube channels, and courses on platforms like Coursera and Udemy are a good starting point.
2. Choose Your Focus Area: Digital marketing is broad, so it’s important to specialize in one area initially. You might want to focus on SEO, social media management, PPC (Pay-Per-Click), or content creation. Over time, you can expand your skills.
3. Gain Practical Experience: Start by applying what you learn. Create your own blog, website, or social media pages to practice and experiment. Alternatively, offer to help a friend or local business with their digital marketing efforts.
4. Get Certified: Certifications from platforms like Google, HubSpot, or Facebook can add credibility to your skills and improve your employability.
5. Stay Updated: Digital marketing is ever-changing. Follow industry blogs, attend webinars, and participate in online communities to stay on top of new trends and tools.
6. Build a Portfolio: As you gain experience, document your work and results to build a strong portfolio that showcases your skills to potential employers or clients.