Introduction

The Google Digital Marketing & E-commerce Professional Certificate is one of the best, if not the best programs for the in-demand skills of digital marketing. With the increasing use of cell phones as primary modes of entertainment and info, you cannot go wrong with choosing this course.

Although this course was initially given by Google free of charge in Africa, it has been moved to Coursera and it is now paid for. However, there are bursaries available, so you need to apply and see if you get the opportunity to get onto the no-fee certification program, particularly if you are from the African continent.

Alternatively, you can sign up when you have time to dedicate 40 – 50 hours a week so that you finish it quicker and spend less on Coursera. This therefore means the course is not expensive and would be accessible to those determined to get it.

What do you get with the Google Digital Marketing Course

You have a whopping 300 hours of learning, on key digital marketing topics. Here’s an outline indicated on the Coursera website:

What you’ll learn

Learn the fundamentals of digital marketing and e-commerce to gain the skills needed to land an entry-level job

Attract and engage customers through digital marketing channels like search and email

Measure marketing performance through analytics and present insights

Build e-commerce stores, analyze online performance, and grow customer loyalty

Skills you’ll gain

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

E-Commerce

Email Marketing

Display advertising

Marketing

Pros and Cons

To assist you with the decision, we have put together pros and cons to consider.

Pros:

Industry-recognized skills: Learn practical skills employers desire, covering areas like email marketing, e-commerce, social media, and analytics. The Google name adds weight to your resume.
Self-paced and flexible: Study at your own pace, making it ideal for busy professionals or those transitioning careers.
Being an online course allows everyone to get the skill, particularly those in far-flung countries and areas.
Affordable with potential financial aid: The cost is relatively low compared to traditional degrees, and scholarship options exist for eligible learners.
Practical learning with hands-on projects: Apply your knowledge through real-world exercises and case studies, building a portfolio to showcase your abilities.
Career support: Benefit from career services like resume building and interview prep, increasing your job readiness.
Potential for career growth: Gaining these skills can open doors to new job opportunities or advancement in your current role.

Digital Marketing opportunities in the USA, Coursera

Cons:

No guarantee of job placement: While the Google certificate increases your skills, it doesn’t guarantee a job. Success also depends on your work experience and other factors.
Limited scope: The program focuses on specific areas, not providing a comprehensive understanding of all digital marketing aspects.
Time commitment: Completing the certificate requires dedication and self-discipline, especially alongside other commitments.
Competition: The digital marketing field could become crowded, so the certificate alone might not stand out significantly.
Ongoing learning required: Digital marketing constantly evolves, so continuous learning and upskilling are crucial for long-term success.

Conclusion:

If you’re looking for a flexible, affordable way to gain practical skills and boost your employability in digital marketing, the Google Digital Marketing Course could be a good fit. But remember, success requires dedication, continuous learning, and adapting to a dynamic field.

To increase your chances of getting employed in this field, you might have to start doing some work and building your portfolio. Consider assisting one or two small businesses at a small fee.

If you are considering doing this course to enable you to do well in your e-commerce, online marketing, or existing business, then you are definitely onto something and will find this course priceless.