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Technology Ignites Job Chances For Digital Directors In L.A.

Digital directors are copywriters with artistic and business-centered focus. These professionals are tasked with designing engaging content and posting eye-catching images that attract a targeted demographic to a company's advertising banner and website.

LA-Tech
(Photo Courtesy of Joshua Nafman)

In Los Angeles, digital marketing directors earn an average annual salary of $99,000, according to current employment data. It is an essential vocation that has taken root in the marketing field in recent years, due to advancing technology.

"As businesses increasingly utilize technology to enhance sales and overall brand awareness, there is a greater need for digital teams that have expertise in these areas," said Joshua Nafman, a senior director of digital and brand marketing at KIND, a manufacturer of wholesome snacks.

What defines a successful digital director?

"A results-driven digital director knows how to use technology to measure, analyze and optimize campaigns, then uses those results to fashion future business decisions. At KIND, the digital team works with all marketing functions in order to set and support larger business objectives."

What is your greatest challenge?

"A new technology comes out every day, resulting in a temptation to jump right in. I call this 'shiny object syndrome,' which can be overcome by focusing first on how the specific technology can benefit a business effectively."

What has emerging technology taught you?

"I've learned that you should never feel too comfortable doing things one way, because technology is ever-changing. It forces you to adapt and not view things too preciously."

How does one prepare for a lasting career in this field?

"In order to have a sustainable career as a digital director, you need to be invested, flexible and educated on an ongoing basis, while also making sure you understand larger business strategy."

What is your message to striving digital directors?

"Aspiring digital directors should always remember that behind every piece of technology or business objective is a person looking to spark a little bit of magic in someone else's day. By the time 2022 rolls around, I see a director's salutation and role disappearing, as expertise in digital media will become a requirement rather than a specialty title."

Sharon Raiford Bush is an award-winning journalist who covers topics of social interest in greater Los Angeles. Some news articles she has authored have been archived by the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. Sharon also contributes to Examiner.com.

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