Blazebridge Academy
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Introduction
In today’s digitally driven world, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, and along with it the need for businesses to have a social media manager.
With the average social media user spending a whopping 2.5 hours daily scrolling, liking, and commenting, it has emerged as a powerful platform for discovering brands, products, and services.
As a result, social media has become one of the most crucial marketing channels in 2023, presenting endless opportunities for brands to connect with their audience and build thriving communities.
If you possess a creative flair and love connecting with others online, you are perfectly poised to take advantage of the booming demand for skilled social media managers.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what it takes to become a successful social media manager in 2023, equipped with actionable tips, a step-by-step guide, and invaluable industry insights from Blazebridge Academy’s in-house experts.
What is a Social Media Manager?
A social media manager is the driving force behind a brand’s online presence.
They meticulously craft, plan, and publish content that aligns with the brand’s identity, while engaging with the community through comments and direct messages.
This crucial role goes beyond mere internships; companies now acknowledge the significance of social media managers, granting them a seat at the decision-making table.
We feel this shift is a testament to social media’s continually growing importance into the years to come.
The Dynamic Role of a Social Media Manager
The role of a social media manager is multifaceted and ever-changing.
It involves various tasks, including creative copywriting, graphic design, video production, content planning, community management, and analysing content performance.
While the list may seem intimidating, aspiring social media managers need not master every skill at once.
Smartphone photography and video can suffice for many social media platforms, and tools like Canva have democratised graphic design and photo editing.
Larger companies often assemble social media teams, allowing individuals to collaborate and leverage their complementary skills.
Moreover, a willingness to learn and adapt is highly valued in this field, making it acceptable to acquire new skills along the way.
Key Skills for a Social Media Manager
In the fast-paced world of social media, adaptability is paramount.
Social media managers must stay up-to-date with ever-evolving trends and be willing to experiment and adjust their strategies continually.
Effective communication and copywriting skills are equally crucial, as social media serves as the front lines of customer interaction and brand messaging.
Content curation skills, along with a keen aesthetic eye, contribute to creating a compelling and consistent social media presence.
Additionally, social media managers should be self-motivated and independent decision-makers, capable of confidently driving results through their creative efforts.
Steps to Becoming a Social Media Manager in 2023
While the path to becoming a social media manager may vary for each individual, there are some fundamental steps that can help you land your dream role:
1. Brush up on Your Social Media Knowledge:
Immerse yourself in the social media landscape, learn about different platforms, and stay updated on emerging trends and content types.
Explore the brands and content that inspire you the most, and consider niche areas where you can specialise.
2. Gain Practical Experience:
Start experimenting with managing social media accounts, even if it means helping out a friend or managing your own niche account.
This hands-on experience will sharpen your skills and provide valuable examples for your portfolio.
3. Build a Portfolio:
Showcase your work and achievements in a professional portfolio.
Include content you’ve created for clients, previous jobs, or even ‘spec work’ for brands you admire.
Keep your portfolio visually appealing and easy to navigate.
4. Craft an Impressive Resume:
Create a standout resume that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements.
Customise it for each job application to align with the specific requirements of the role.
5. Network Strategically:
Utilise social media platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook to connect with potential employers and clients.
Building a strong professional network can lead to exciting opportunities and industry connections.
Potential Earnings for Social Media Managers
The compensation for social media managers varies based on several factors, such as geographical location, level of experience, and the type of employment (freelancer or in-house). In the United States, the average annual salary for an in-house social media manager is around $50,000, with possibilities ranging from $40,000 to $65,000.
Senior positions in large companies might offer salaries upwards of $100,000 per year.
Freelancers can set their own rates, with junior social media managers earning between $25 and $35 per hour and expert-level managers charging $125 to $250 per hour.
Conclusion
As social media continues to dominate the marketing landscape in 2023 and beyond, the demand for skilled social media managers will only soar.
Mastering the art of social media management requires a combination of creativity, adaptability, and strong communication skills.
By honing your craft, gaining practical experience, and building a robust online presence, you can unlock a world of exciting opportunities in the dynamic realm of social media management.
At Blazebridge Academy, we offer comprehensive, accredited and internationally recognised courses and associate certificate short course programs that will equip you with the latest skills and knowledge to excel as a social media manager.
Take the first step towards an exciting career in social media management, and download our FREE “How to Become a Social Media Manager PDF” now to help you get started on your journey!
