Hire a Marketing Apprentice: Pros and Cons
When expanding your team as a sole marketer, hiring a marketing apprentice can be a valuable option. A marketing apprentice is typically someone who is new to the field but eager to learn and gain practical experience in marketing .
They don’t have no experience however. Many marketing apprentices have skills in a related field like graphic design, literature/writing, film production or photography. They may be working in hospitality or retail, trying to get their foot in the door. The average age of our marketing apprentices is 23, and 40% are graduates.
Think about the skills you need and look for people trying to make the transition into marketing . This includes people already working in your business. So if you want someone who already knows the day-to-day of the company, keep in mind that marketing apprenticeship training is open to existing employees as well as new recruits, regardless of age.
Pros
Fresh Perspective and Enthusiasm
Marketing apprentices bring a fresh perspective and enthusiasm to your team. They are often excited to learn and apply their knowledge to real-world marketing scenarios. A good programme will make sure their practical assignments are focused on your business.
10 Questions to ask an apprenticeship training provider
Cost-Effective Solution
Hiring a marketing apprentice is generally more cost-effective than hiring an experienced digital marketer. Apprentices typically receive on-the-job training while being paid at a lower rate, making it a cost-effective option for small businesses with limited budgets. A typical marketing apprentice salary starts at £16,000 for the first 12 months. After 12 months you will need to pay the minimum wage for their age.
Trainability and Adaptability
Marketing apprentices are eager to learn and have a strong desire to succeed in the field. They are open to being trained and are adaptable to new situations, making them suitable for businesses willing to invest in mentoring and guiding them.
Potential for Long-Term Growth
By hiring a marketing apprentice, you have the opportunity to shape and mold their skills according to your business's needs.
Over time, they can become valuable assets and grow with your business, contributing to its long-term success. They also tend to stick around. The L3 marketing Apprenticeship programme is 15 months long.
Cons
Limited Experience
One of the drawbacks of hiring a marketing apprentice is their limited experience in the industry. They may not have extensive practical experience executing marketing campaigns or handling complex marketing strategies.
Learning Curve
Due to their limited experience, a marketing apprentice may require time to get up to speed with marketing best practices, tools, and platforms. They may need additional support and guidance initially but they can quickly add value.
Need for Guidance and Mentorship
When you hire a marketing apprentice, like any junior marketer it means investing time in development. In order for them to thrive you will need to provide guidance, feedback, and opportunities for skill development to help them grow.
However, with an apprentice you also receive support from their training programme. They will undertake masterclasses in specialist areas like SEO, analytics and PPC, and be assigned a marketing coach to make sure their work is on track.
Risk of Turnover
Marketing apprentices may view their apprenticeship as a stepping stone to gain experience in the field. They may seek other opportunities after completing their apprenticeship, creating a risk of turnover. Make sure you have regular conversations about your plans for the team that includes a clear progression plan for them.
Considerations
When considering whether to hire a marketing apprentice, think about the following factors:
Skill Requirements
Assess the specific marketing skills and knowledge you require from a marketing apprentice. Look for candidates with some knowledge of marketing concepts, such as social media, SEO, content marketing, or content creation.
Training and Mentorship
Find a programme that provides comprehensive training and mentorship to a marketing apprentice. Consider the resources, tools, and guidance you can also offer to help them develop their marketing skills.
Growth Potential
Determine if you have the capacity and desire to provide opportunities for growth and advancement to a marketing apprentice within your organisation. This can help retain their talent and loyalty over the long term.
Collaboration and Support
Assess how well a marketing apprentice will fit into your team and collaborate with other team members. Consider their ability to work well with others, take direction, and contribute to a positive team environment. Hiring for attitude is a key component of successful hires at entry-level.
By carefully considering these factors and weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about whether hiring a marketing freelancer is the right choice for expanding your team.
Alternative options
Hire a Marketing Executive: Pros and Cons
Hire a Marketing Freelancer: Pros and Cons
Hire a Marketing Intern: Pros and Cons