Introduction

We frequently hear the question, “What is digital marketing?” in today’s technologically advanced society. Understanding digital marketing is crucial whether you’re a business owner, looking for a career, or simply interested in how things operate online. However, what exactly is digital marketing? Let’s put it in plain language.

Understanding the Basics: What is Digital Marketing?

Digital marketing, to put it simply, is the process of using tools and the internet to sell and promote goods and services. It covers everything, including emails, Google searches, online advertisements, and social media and websites. Therefore, digital marketing is in action whether you scroll through Instagram and see a brand advertisement or search for a firm on Google and discover it at the top.

However, what is digital marketing if it isn’t a contemporary kind of conventional marketing? This marketing takes place on your phone, laptop, or tablet rather than on television, billboards, or newspapers. That’s the only difference.

Why is Digital Marketing Important Today?

Imagine operating a store where no one knows it exists and there are no signs or ads. Doesn’t that sound like a horrible idea? That’s what happens in today’s environment when a company doesn’t use digital marketing.

Knowing what digital marketing is and using it can benefit you whether you manage a large corporation or a bakery. 

• Reach more people
  
• Get more customers
  
• Save advertising costs
  
• Build a brand identity
  
• Compete with bigger companies
  

In short, digital marketing is for everyone—big or small businesses, freelancers, students, and even influencers.

Different Types of Digital Marketing

When you ask, “what is digital marketing,” it’s important to know that it’s not just one thing—it’s a combination of many strategies. Let’s explore some of the main types:

1. Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

SEO helps your website rank higher on Google. When people search for something like “best bakery near me,” and your website comes up first, that’s the magic of SEO.

2. Social Media Marketing (SMM)

Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter are great places to promote your brand. Posting regularly and running ads can boost your reach.

3. Pay-Per-Click (PPC)

PPC is a paid advertising method where you only pay when someone clicks your ad. Google Ads and Facebook Ads are common PPC platforms.

4. Email Marketing

Ever received a promotional email? That’s email marketing. It’s a direct way to stay connected with your audience.

5. Content Marketing

Writing blogs (like this one), making videos, or creating infographics is part of content marketing. It helps build trust with your audience.

6. Affiliate Marketing

In this method, you earn a commission by promoting other people’s products on your site or social media.

Each type plays a unique role in the bigger picture of what is digital marketing.

What Skills Do You Need in Digital Marketing?

To truly understand what is digital marketing, it’s helpful to know the basic skills involved:

• Writing and communication
  
• SEO and keyword research
  
• Data analysis and reporting
  
• Social media management
  
• Google Ads and Analytics
  
• Creativity and design sense
  

You don’t need to learn everything at once. Start with one area and build your way up.

Who Should Learn Digital Marketing?

Now that you have a fair idea of what is digital marketing, you might wonder, “Is it right for me?”

The answer is yes if you are:

• A student looking for a career in marketing
  
• A small business owner wanting to grow online
  
• A working professional wanting to upskill
  
• A freelancer or content creator
  

Common Tools Used in Digital Marketing

Here are some tools you’ll likely come across once you dive into what is digital marketing:

• Google Analytics – to track website traffic
  
• SEMrush / Ahrefs – for SEO and keyword research
  
• Canva – for creating designs and social media graphics
  
• Mailchimp – for email marketing
  
• Meta Ads Manager – for Facebook and Instagram Ads
  

These tools make marketing more efficient and measurable.

Real-Life Example

Suppose you start a little cake shop. You make a basic website, set up an Instagram account, publish your finest cake pictures every day, and run a few advertisements for holiday deals. People gradually begin to visit your website, place orders, and inquire about bespoke cakes on Instagram. In reality, digital marketing is a collection of internet resources that support the expansion of your company. 

Conclusion

At Digital Pro Masters, we think that knowing what digital marketing is is about connecting with the right people at the right time, not just about using tools and running ads. Gaining knowledge about marketing provides you a competitive edge in your business and career in today’s fast-paced digital environment.