How to Become a Social Media Manager?

Before you launch your career in social media management, it's essential to know if you have the right stuff. This job revolves around helping companies successfully engage their audience. It can be an attractive career for many who have the essential soft skills to succeed. Not only do you have the ability to connect with just about anyone and you thrive in an ever-changing environment, you're also:

• Adaptable.
• A team player.
• A multitasker.
• Artistic.
• Efficient.
• Organized.
• Tech-savvy.

There's more than one way to learn how to be a social media manager. Some employers require their candidates to have a bachelor's or even a master's degree from a traditional university in fields like:

• Advertising.
• Journalism.
• Marketing.
• Media.
• Communications.
• Business.
• Public relations.

However, many marketers have no formal education. It is possible to pick up the job-ready knowledge and skills within months instead of years. You'll hit the ground running with all the practice skills you need through numerous self-study paths. Take online marketing classes on websites like SkillShare or attend a digital coding BootCamp. You'll develop loads of employable technical skills that you can showcase to headhunters, like:

• Content management.
• Data analysis and analytics.
• Copywriting.
• Customer service.
• Budgeting.

Think of your digital marketing portfolio as the bulk of your technical resume. This step is essential to land your dream job in social media. So start building your portfolio right away, and don't discount personal life. Everyday experiences are opportunities to wow companies with your expertise.

While promoting your hobbies on Twitter may not draw in a top recruiter, it will add value to your resume. Even hosting a weekly chat about the latest best-selling paperback demonstrates that you know how to lead a digital conversation. Just remember to steer clear of anything that may prove embarrassing in the long run.

Embarking on your path to find a social media manager job may feel a bit daunting. Career experts offer informative guides that mention preparation, organization, and the best places to go for current listings. Be prepared with a:

• Polished resume.
• Digital portfolio.
• List of references.

Make sure you stand out from other social media manager applicants by having a few exceptional things in your tool kit, like:

• Volunteer experience managing a school or non-profit's social media accounts.
• A sample blog you created for the company that's interviewing you.
• Expertise in multiple social media management platforms beyond the freebies, like Facebook.