In the digital age, social media has become a crucial part of every person’s life. Most people spend a lot of their time on different social media platforms. For example, currently, Facebook has over 2.6 billion active users monthly.
In the past, the primary purpose of social media was to connect people no matter the distance. While that is still one of the reasons people use social media, it’s not the only reason anymore. For example, people now go on social media to check the news, sell products, and many more.
The huge presence of social media in the world has resulted in new career roles that are currently in demand. One of them is a social media manager. And this role has several facets. Generally, a social media manager handles a company or brand’s social media presence and content. They are also often in charge of developing social media strategies to increase a brand’s engagement and convert leads.
Anyone can be a social media manager. Having a background in marketing or business management may help. But it’s not mandatory since you can learn the needed skills. But to succeed in this role, here are some things you need to do:
Familiarize Yourself with All-media Channels
Knowing and learning how to navigate around different social media platforms is a prerequisite. As a social media manager, most if not all your work will take place on social media.
If you’re already using some platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram, you’re off to a good start. You can take online courses or watch tutorial videos to better understand the features of each social media platform. For instance, you need to understand the differences between a personal page versus a business page on Facebook, Instagram, and other platforms.
You also need to put extra effort into learning platforms you aren’t already part of. Joining the platform can be your first best step.
Learn Graphic Design
As a social media manager, you are likely to also generate the content needed for social media posts. And these involve creating infographics and other visual content.
In 2019, 200 marketers were surveyed, and they reported using visuals in 74% of their content. Using visuals is a great way to present information to people. And it’s much easier for them to digest as compared to text-heavy posts.
You don’t have to be a Photoshop or Illustrator expert. Even knowing the basics will already be helpful. You can also just learn how to use graphic design platforms where you can drag and drop elements to create visuals or start from a blank canvas. Some popular platforms include Canva, Crello, and many others.
Create a Portfolio
Many companies require applicants for a social media manager position to have portfolios. These will serve as evidence of what applicants are capable of.
Even if you have no experience, you can still create a portfolio using sample works. For example, you can create an infographic on how to create an online community forum. This how-to visual will demonstrate your skill of presenting information concisely and your graphic design skills. You can also create sample Facebook and Instagram posts complete with captions and photos for an imaginary brand.
Optimize Your Own Social Media
Your own social media can become your portfolio. In the hiring process, recruiters and managers will also look at your own social media networks. So you should optimize them.
For example, when you share posts with valuable content on your personal social media, consider using relevant tags. Doing this will show that you know how to get people to see your post. You can also consider using the same name and profile photo across all your social media platforms to make yourself easier for interested parties to locate.
Stay Updated with Trends
In any position, lifelong learning is essential. But it is particularly important in a career that is very fast-paced and dynamic like a social media manager.
Social media management relies on SEO and content marketing. So you need to keep yourself updated on new strategies in these fields. This means you’ll need to do a lot of reading. You’ll also need to check what competitors in your chosen field are doing. This competitor analysis will help you identify their strategies and areas for improvement.
Social media managers are currently in demand. If you put in the effort into learning new skills, creating your own portfolio, and staying up-to-date with social media trends, you’ll be able to succeed as a social media manager.
