Oftentimes, it can feel like it’s ‘who you know’ rather than ‘what you know’ when it comes to getting jobs in digital marketing, but don’t let it dishearten you. There are tons of ways for you to stand out, beyond just networking on LinkedIn. Below we lay out 5 clear and easy-to-action tips on pitching yourself to a digital agency.

1. Show don’t tell

Find your niche and don’t only tell employers about it, show them. If you’re a web developer or UX designer, don’t rely on templates, make your own online portfolio to highlight how incredibly talented you are. Most templates are restrictive, so building your own from scratch is a great way to tailor make it exactly how you want it to look.

Alongside your portfolio, consider having a professional Instagram account to showcase your work. This is especially important if the job you’re applying for is in social media. It’s not mandatory and won’t stop you from getting the job, but it can definitely tip the scales in your favour.

2. Tell your story

If the role you’re applying for is a copywriter, use your wordsmith skills to build and tell a narrative within your CV and application. Don’t overload it with synonyms (like Joey did in Friends), it still needs to make sense. Take the reader on a whistle stop tour of your experience and let your personality and quirks shine through in your words.

3. Think outside-the-box

Spruce up your job application. A standard CV and cover letter is good, and matching your CV to the branding of the place you’re applying to is great. Have you thought about throwing tradition out the window? We’re seeing a rise in people getting creative to showcase their talents and stand out from the crowd.

4. Make your brand your own

Build your brand. Let’s say your name is Ashely Orange – build your brand around your surname. It’s fun, shows creativity and gives employers an insight into who you are, how you want to be seen, and your reputation. Have fun with it; being professional doesn’t need to mean boring. Along the same vein, don’t let ‘digital’ limit your ideas. After all, you’re reading this because you’re thinking of applying to an advertising agency – famously a creative environment.

5. Final details 

The less fun bits. I’ll whizz through these because there’s a good chance you know them all, but it’s always better the devil you know. 

Make sure you use correct grammar and spelling on your CV, keep your application succinct without compromising on storytelling, include important information, references, and any relevant certifications or courses you’ve completed such as Google Analytics, or British Sign Language. Outside of your CV, network, ask your friends if their workplace is hiring, apply speculatively, and check your LinkedIn is up to date – if you don’t have one, make one.

If you’re looking for tips on pitching to an agency from a sales perspective, check out our post on exactly that.