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Starting with a degree in archaeology, I knew I wanted to pursue further education and make a difference in my life. After working in administration and construction, I decided to leap of faith and open my jewellery store. As the world continued to go digital, I took the initiative to bring my business online and learned new ways to attract customers and increase brand awareness. I never could have imagined my decision's impact on my life, but I'm proud to say that it's been a journey of growth, discovery, and success.
Transition Phase
After recognising that my organisation needed more resources, I took the initiative and developed a solution. I registered an Instagram account, created daily posts, focused on building customer relationships, and constructed a website using Ecwid. I was inspired to explore new ideas and strategies as my business grew. While initially perplexed by customers who would visit my website only to take photos of my products and then complete their purchase on Instagram, I ultimately embraced the challenge and researched to understand this user behaviour. This experience motivated me to continue seeking innovative ways to improve my business and better meet the needs of my customers.
To enhance my knowledge about the basics of digital marketing and better comprehend customers' intent and purchasing journey, I decided to learn more about it.
With my store sold, I set my sights on finding the perfect school in the United Kingdom. As a student, I knew having the right support system was crucial to my success. After much searching, I discovered the University of Salford, where I knew I would find everything I needed to achieve my dreams. The digital marketing programme was the icing, and I couldn't wait to start.
Salford Business School
Enrolling at Salford Business School for my Master's degree has been life-changing. My first module on digital marketing communication was both exciting and nerve-wracking. Dr. Sean Chung's reassuring words reminded me we were all there to learn and grow as future business managers. His advice helped me become more analytical. Throughout the course, I gained valuable insights into the complexities of integrated marketing communication, the evolving nature of traditional marketing, and the importance of building meaningful relationships in today's customer-centric world.
Since beginning my Master's programme, I have gained much knowledge and experienced substantial personal growth. I fully understand and appreciate research's crucial role in every context, and I am deeply committed to placing the user at the forefront of all decision-making processes by utilising data-driven methodologies. Through my studies, I have gained a newfound appreciation for the importance of storytelling, marketing, search engine optimisation, content creation, commercial advertising, email marketing, customer service, networking, and digital marketing. I am eager to apply these skills in real-world situations.
At Salford, I have gained knowledge, conducted research, and received assistance from #askusmentoring, #salfordbusinessschool, and #salfordstudentunion.
I am enrolled in my second module, search and social media marketing. My module leader, Mirage Islam, has taught me an invaluable lesson: nothing is impossible. This course has sparked my creativity and helped me strategically analyse my brand, the market, and my competitors. It has also taught me how to use search engines to find keywords and optimise my digital presence. Above all, I have realised that I am a brand in myself.
Still to come
I must complete two modules, Digital Marketing Analytics and Strategy and Online and Offline Consumer Behaviour. Once I finish them, I plan to work on the Industry Collaboration Project (ICP). It will allow me to continue my dissertation or explore an internship, placement, or entrepreneurship options. I aim to apply for a three-month unpaid internship through the #sbsemployabilityhub and #careerenterprise. I aim to enhance my comprehension of the professional environment and apply the knowledge I have acquired at Salford Business School, specifically in digital content marketing.
With great confidence, I can attest to the meticulous planning of the digital marketing course outline, which has equipped me with the skills necessary to become an excellent digital marketer. Pursuing a master's degree in digital marketing from the University of Salford is an opportunity you shouldn't miss, as you'll get to ask me questions directly. My name is Tolu Atunde, and you have just finished reading my first blog post.
