The Hook: I Can’t Hire Fast Enough. Why Can’t You Find a Job?
As a marketing leader, I’ve posted internships and entry-level positions for 12 years. Every single time, I’m overwhelmed with applications. And every single time, I’m disappointed. 300+ applications, maybe 5 worth interviewing—and maybe 1 worth hiring.
Here’s what’s wild: I’m ALWAYS hiring. The demand for digital marketing talent has never been higher. The problem isn’t lack of jobs—it’s applicants who have no idea how to stand out.
This guide reverse-engineers what gets hired. I’ve been on both sides—I’ve hired 50+ interns and I was once an intern who couldn’t get hired. Here’s how to make it happen.
Where to Find Digital Marketing Internship Opportunities
1. Direct Agency Applications
Digital marketing agencies (the ones managing campaigns for clients) are ALWAYS hiring. They need bodies to handle the volume of work. Even better: agencies train you in multiple skills, not just one.
Where to search:
- Search “[your city] digital marketing agency”
- Look for agencies in your target industry
- Check their careers page directly
- Even apply to ones not posting—growth creates need
2. In-House Marketing Departments
Every company with a marketing team needs help. In-house is better for learning ONE industry deeply, specializing in ONE channel, and having more structured training.
Best targets:
- E-commerce brands (high volume, always hiring)
- SaaS companies (growing fast)
- Local businesses (less competition)
- Series A-D startups (need generalists)
How to find: Search “[company] careers” + “marketing coordinator” or “marketing assistant”
3. Remote & Flexible Opportunities
The remote revolution opened up opportunities beyond your geography. You can now apply anywhere.
Best platforms:
- LinkedIn (search: “digital marketing intern remote”)
- We Work Remotely
- Remote OK
- Angellist (tech startup internships)
- Indeed (set location to “remote”)
The key: Build relationships before applying. Connect with marketing managers, engage with their content, THEN apply. 10x better response.
4. The Hidden Job Market
Most internships aren’t posted. They’re created through relationships and initiative.
Proven strategies:
- Direct outreach to marketing leaders (LinkedIn)
- Offer a spec project (analyze their website for free)
- Network in marketing communities
- Ask your college career center (they have connections)
- Freelance first, convert to internship
5. Build Your Own (Unpaid If Needed)
If you can’t find an internship—create one. Build a portfolio that proves you can do the work.
Prove it by:
- Run your own campaigns (even $100 budget)
- Document everything (results, failures, learnings)
- Create case studies from your experiments
- Help local businesses for free + testimonial
Most hiring managers hire based on PROOF, not potential. Show proof, get hired.
Internship Search Mistakes
Mistake #1: Mass Applying
You’re sending the same resume to 100 companies. Zero personalization = zero response. 10 targeted applications beat 100 generic ones.
Fix: Research each company. Reference something specific. Make them feel seen.
Mistake #2: No Portfolio
You have zero proof of ability. No campaigns run, no results, no nothing. You are asking someone to bet on potential—but you’re not even betting on yourself.
Fix: Run a $50 campaign. Document the results. That’s all it takes.
Mistake #3: Only Applying to Big Companies
You’re competing with hundreds for Goldman Sachs. Meanwhile, smaller companies are desperate and overlooked. Lower competition = faster hiring.
Fix: Apply to 5 companies under 50 people for every 1 big company.
Mistake #4: Waiting for Perfect
You’re waiting until you “know enough” to apply. News flash: Nobody knows enough starting out. You learn by doing, not before doing.
Fix: Apply NOW. Learn in the role. Growth mindset over fixed mindset.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a marketing degree?
Absolutely not. Most marketers I’ve hired don’t have marketing degrees. We hire for skills and mindset, not credentials. Show me you can do the work—and I’ll hire you.
Should I take unpaid internships?
Only if you’re getting real experience and mentorship. Unpaid for the wrong reasons = exploitation. But quality unpaid with learning is an investment. Evaluate per case.
How long does it take to find one?
Realistically: 1-3 months of consistent effort. But quality beats speed. 20 quality applications over generic 100. Give it time, but stay aggressive.
What if I have no experience?
Everyone starts with no experience. Create YOUR experience. Run campaigns, build projects, document everything. Experience isn’t given—it’s created.
Internship Search Checklist
Ready to Get Hired?
The best time to start was yesterday. The second best time is today.
