Salesforce Marketing Cloud is a very popular product, multiplying in users over the last decade. For a while now, it has been a lucrative niche that you can tap into. And for this reason, in the past few weeks, I have spent some time scouring the internet for high-quality free resources to help you kickstart your Marketing Cloud learning journey.
The resources I found are particularly valuable for those new to Marketing Cloud who do not yet have access to the platform (as Marketing Cloud doesn’t currently offer a free developer org), as well as existing Marketing Cloud users looking to expand their knowledge of the platform.
1. Marketing Cloud Bootcamp by Trailblazing Together
Do you have more time on your hands? Then look no further than the Trailblazing Together YouTube channel by @MCLearningCamp, which offers some of the most comprehensive playlists on Marketing Cloud. Here are my top choices:
- Salesforce Marketing Cloud Email Specialist Certification Bootcamp
- Marketing Cloud Implementation Series
- Salesforce Marketing Cloud Administrator Bootcamp
- AMPscript Bootcamp
In these videos, you’ll have the chance to learn about all aspects of the platform from some of the top Marketing Cloud users in the industry.
2. Salesforce Marketing Cloud Crash Course
For a quick introduction to the platform, Salesforce Ben’s Salesforce Marketing Cloud Crash Course is an excellent starting point to learn key concepts in just under one hour.
The course, led by Branden Bellanca, is designed to provide the audience with a foundational understanding of the platform and includes a demo at the end, which proves highly beneficial for those without platform access, helping them grasp the platform’s mechanics and navigation.
When I watched it, it helped me learn some of the platform’s basic capabilities and make comparisons with my knowledge of other platforms, such as Account Engagement (formerly known as Pardot).
3. Blogs
If you’re looking for advice on how to use Salesforce Marketing Cloud, the best course of action is often to search the web and read independent blogs. The Salesforce marketing community is thriving, and so many are willing to share their expertise through a blog.
Some of the top ones out there include:
- {sfmc}.curated
- Sfmarketing.cloud
- The Smart SFMC Marketer
- And many more!
4. YouTube Channels
In a similar vein to blog, for the visual learners among us there are plenty of Marketing Cloud/Salesforce-specific YouTube channels to watch.
Cameron Robert
One of my favourite resources is the extensive playlist created by Australia-based Salesforce Marketing Cloud Architect Cameron Robert.
Start your learning journey with the Salesforce Marketing Cloud Quick Start Training playlist, which offers a solid foundation in the basics. Then, delve into specific areas of interest by exploring more playlists or individual videos. Cameron provides an overview of each functionality and expertly guides you through each click and step with remarkable clarity and simplicity, helping you learn each functionality and process.
MinuteAdmin
Another favourite of mine is MinuteAdmin by Kaelan Moss. With playlists that delve into certifications such as the Marketing Cloud Email Specialist plus other Marketing Cloud career content, you’ll be sure to find something to help you.
5. Trailhead
No prizes for guessing Trailhead would appear on this list! Trailhead is Salesforce’s free training site that has over 1,100+ modules, quizzes, and hands-on activities by linking a Salesforce Org (“Trailhead Playground”).
The whole platform is gamified, making learning engaging, and the content approachable. It really is mind-blowing…
When it comes to Marketing Cloud, you’ll find a number of trails available. There is content that demystifies Marketing Cloud Einstein features, journey builder, AMPscript, and more. Even if you are certified, I recommend going through any new Trailhead modules to keep up to date with what’s out there.
With four certifications tailored for Marketing Cloud’s future, current users who can access three distinct official trailmixes on Trailhead, offering a well-structured learning experience to Trailblazers looking to tackle these certs:
- Study for the Marketing Cloud Administrator Certification Exam
- Prepare for Your Salesforce Marketing Cloud Consultant Credential
- Prepare for your Marketing Cloud Email Specialist Credential
The official documentation can also be really helpful when attempting to master the platform!
Miscellaneous Resources
These are great resources for any Salesforce professional:
- Salesforce Certification Days: While they only include the Marketing Cloud Email Specialist certification (at the time of writing), it’s definitely something worth looking into.
- Salesforce Pathfinder: Another official program started by Salesforce to increase the number of new Salesforce professionals coming into the industry. As well as 200+ hours of free, immersive training, Salesforce connects you with mentors and also has a network of employers who are looking to hire entry-level professionals.
Summary
The Marketing Cloud platform continues to evolve at its fastest pace yet, so kicking off your learning journey now seems like a wise idea! With plenty of free resources – from video courses to written articles – to get you started, you’ll be on your way to being a pro in no time.