Net a busy online job
Social media managers are now in demand across many businesses and industries
TWENTY years ago, no one had even heard of social media – now it’s an integral part of everyday life for millions of people as we constantly update our Facebook and Twitter profiles.
And that means it’s an important tool for businesses of all sizes when it comes to promoting their brand and communicating with customers and clients.
The role of the social media manager is to oversee this kind of engagement across different platforms – a position that’s becoming more important in an increasingly digital world.
THE LOWDOWN
Many of us are regular users of Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest when it comes to uploading photos of our lunch and funny animal videos.
But to be an effective social media manager, you’ll need a comprehensive knowledge of all social media channels and how they can be used to engage effectively with a wider audience.
As the person tasked with managing an organisation’s online presence, the following responsibilities are likely to fall under your remit:
Manage all social media channels
Plan, write and deliver engaging content, interesting blog posts and articles, and multimedia content, such as videos
Oversee campaigns that promote your brand and engage with customers and clients
Use tools like Google Analytics to monitor and report on social media platform performance
Form relationships with key influencers and keep up to speed with all the latest social media technology and platform updates and advances
It’s a role that would suit an outgoing person with excellent writing, editing and planning skills.
Like all media-related careers, you’ll also need to be able to work well under pressure and be able to meet deadlines.
Social media managers are usually office-based and work standard nine-to-five hours, although there could be scope for home-working and you may be asked to work some evenings and weekends.
THE PAY
Salary will vary depending on location and the size of organisation you work for. Those starting in a junior manager’s role could expect to earn between £19,000 and £23,000, while those with more experience could take home £25,000 to £40,000 per year.
Social media managers with substantial experience could demand salaries in excess of £50,000, while freelancers could make up to £25 per hour.
THE TRAINING
There are no formal entry qualifications required to embark on a career as a social media manager but many people entering this industry do have a degree.
So a qualification in a relevant discipline, such as marketing, communications, public relations or English, could be a distinct advantage.
Previous experience is also a huge bonus and this could be gained through paid internships or voluntary work with a charity.
THE CONTACTS
The Institute of Direct and Digital Marketing, www.theidm.com
Chartered Institute of Marketing, www.cim.co.uk
Scottish Qualifications Authority, www.sqa.org.uk