So, you’ve just graduated and you’re eyeing a career in influencer marketing. Maybe you’ve always loved social media, maybe you've run a student brand campaign, or maybe you're just fascinated by the way creators build entire careers around content. Whatever brought you here, welcome — influencer marketing is one of the fastest-growing, most exciting (and sometimes chaotic) corners of the marketing world. But where do you even begin?

Let’s break it down.

What Is Influencer Marketing, Really?

At its core, influencer marketing is about partnering with creators — individuals who have built communities around their content — to promote a brand, product, or idea. These creators can range from celebrities with millions of followers to niche experts with tight-knit, highly engaged audiences. It’s not just about vanity metrics like likes or followers — it’s about influence (hence the name).

This space blends creativity, strategy, data, relationship management, and trendspotting. One day you’re analyzing engagement rates, the next you’re negotiating contracts, launching a TikTok campaign, or helping creators align with brand messaging.

Career Paths in Influencer Marketing

There’s more than one way to build a career in this space. Here are a few entry points:

• Agency-side: Work at an agency that manages campaigns for multiple brands. Great for variety, fast-paced learning, and exposure to different industries.

• Brand-side: Join an internal marketing team managing influencer campaigns directly. Ideal if you’re passionate about a specific company or product.

• Creator platforms/tech tools: Work at companies that build the software behind influencer discovery, campaign tracking, or payments.

• Talent management: Help creators grow their careers, land brand deals, and navigate contracts.

Don’t worry if you’re not sure which is the best fit yet. Many people try out a few before finding their lane.

Skills That Will Set You Apart

You don’t need a perfect resume — but you do need to be hungry to learn and show you get the space. Start here:

• Understanding of social platforms (TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, etc.) and how creators use them differently

• Basic marketing knowledge (audience targeting, brand voice, campaign strategy)

• Strong communication and writing skills (you’ll be emailing with creators, writing briefs, maybe even scripts)

• Comfort with data and metrics (engagement rate, reach, conversions — don’t worry, you can learn this!)

• Organizational chops (campaigns have lots of moving parts — deadlines, deliverables, tracking)

What You Can Do Right Now to Get Started

Even without experience, you can start building credibility and connections:

1. Follow creators and brands you admire. Notice how campaigns are structured, how brands show up on different platforms, and how creators disclose partnerships.

2. Create a “mini portfolio.” Break down a favorite influencer campaign: what worked, what didn’t, and what you’d do differently. Or mock up your own brief.

3. Build your personal brand on LinkedIn. Share your interest in the industry, write about what you're learning, and connect with people already working in the space.

4. Sign up for newsletters and podcasts. Stay up to date with tools like Influencer Marketing Hub, The Information, Glossy, or Creator Upload.

5. Apply smart. Look for internships, coordinator roles, or even freelance opportunities with small brands or agencies. Show enthusiasm and a willingness to grow.

One Last Thing: The Industry Is Still Growing (and Changing Fast)

Influencer marketing isn't going anywhere, but the tools, platforms, and strategies evolve constantly. Stay curious. Experiment. Ask questions. And don’t be discouraged if your first job isn’t your dream role — just getting your foot in the door can open a lot of others.

This is a space where creativity and agility thrive — and if you bring that energy, you’ll fit right in.

Stay tuned for more tips and tricks!