3 Ways To Get Started As a Social Media Manager With No Experience
Oct 11, 2021Over the years, social media marketing has become a critical aspect of business. Since more businesses are utilizing it, that means they’re looking for experts to oversee the operations and management of their social media channels.
That expert should be you.
Most people assume that you need a lot of experience with high-profile clients or a bachelor’s degree in Social Media Marketing Studies (...is that even a thing? ) but the truth is you don’t need any of that.
Learn how you can become a social media manager even if you have no experience.
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What Is Social Media Management?
Before we jump into the “hows” let’s discuss the “whats.”
Social media management is a form of digital marketing that uses social networks to analyze and engage with different audiences. The data obtained from these interactions are used to create and implement a social media marketing strategy that will increase brand awareness, encourage sales, or increase a brand’s authority.
This strategy often includes creating tailored content, customer service management, and public relations management.
Businesses and influencers alike need to maintain their social media presence because, in today’s time, that’s where their customers and audiences are hanging out.
How Many Years Of Experience Do I Need To Become A Social Media Manager?
If we’re being honest, the only experience you need is a working knowledge of social media networks as a whole. All social media platforms work differently but it’s very important that you understand what role they play in starting, nurturing, and growing a business and its online presence.
Typically you’ll need experience with platforms such as LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Twitter, Youtube, and Snapchat. You may be required to oversee multiple platforms at one time so it’s helpful to also know the differences in the target audience on each one.
What Skills Do I Need to Become a Social Media Manager?
Social media managers often wear multiple hats so it's a bit difficult to hone in on one specific job description. The thing to remember is that your ultimate goal is to create social media marketing campaigns that are successful in creating brand awareness, increasing sales, or engaging with a brand’s online community.
Listen to the Go Getter Podcast Episode With Tyler Denae
Some of the day-to-day responsibilities of a SMM are creating social media content, scheduling social media posts, responding to direct messages (DMs), and tracking the overall performance of a social media account.
In addition to being a content creator and strategist, the job may require you to have skills in
- copywriting & search engine optimization (SEO)
- graphic design
- community management
- content marketing
Although it’s not required, you can obtain a free Social Media Marketing certification from Hubspot to help you build your skills.
3 Super Simple Ways To Get Started As a Social Media Manager With No Experience
A common issue that aspiring social media managers face is finding work. There are a ton of companies that are hiring for this position but some many require a degree or experience working in an agency setting. But don’t let that discourage you.
Here are 3 ways you can get started with no experience.
“If you build it, they will come”
Start by building your own brand
As a full-time freelancer or business owner, you’ll be responsible for getting your own clients, setting your own rates, and tracking your performance using your social media analytics.
If you’ve been successful with creating and managing your personal social media content, you can document your process and use it as a framework for your future clients. Once you have a solid framework it’ll make it easier for you to get high-profile clients.
Use friends and family to gain quality experience
If you don’t have any experience with social media management, start by managing the accounts of family members or friends.
You can use social media management platforms like Hootsuite or Planoly to help you plan content, schedule social media posts, and track your metrics.
Use a freelancing marketplace to get real clients
When you’re ready to work with clients professionally, you can start by creating an account on a freelancing platform like Fiverr or Upwork. It makes it super easy to connect with influencers and small businesses who need your services.
Are you ready to become a Social Media Manager? Sign up for the Trove Social Academy Masterclass today to get started.
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