Introduction
Today’s world is better known as the digital world. Digitalisation has affected every industry. As the digital world has grown, marketing has moved to online platforms, with social media becoming very important.
This has created the role of the Social Media Manager. A Social Media Manager is a trained professional who represents a company and acts as the main link between the company and its audience.
But the role of a Social Media Manager is wider than just posting updates on social media. So, let’s discuss in detail about this emerging career.
Who is a Social Media Manager?
Social Media Managers are skilled professional who manages a company’s social media presence. They create and share content on various online platforms like Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, etc. to promote the company’s brand and engage with its audience.
Their job involves planning and posting updates, responding to comments and messages, and tracking how well their posts are doing.
There are different types of Social Media Managers like Advertising Social Media Managers, Public Relations (PR) Social Media Managers, Scientific Social Media Managers, SEO-minded Social Media Managers, etc. Each one is specialised in their area of expertise.
In essence, they are the main connection between the company and its customers on social media, making sure the company’s online image is positive and engaging.
Career Scope as a Social Media Manager
Social Media Manager is a growing career choice for many digital job seekers.
The hiring of Social Media Managers has increased from 12% to 23% in the past 5 years in top digital marketing companies in India. Also, PR and social media management companies have provided more chances for candidates to become Social Media Managers.
They are also in demand across government and corporate sectors. The role is not limited to the corporate world; it has also become important in political campaigns, offering a wide range of experiences for young social media professionals.
Role & Responsibilities of Social Media Manager
The primary responsibility of Social Media Managers is to increase online followers. But the role is not just limited to growing follower numbers.
They are also responsible for:
- Creating captivating content to engross the target audience
- To analyse performance metrics
- Maintain the company’s online brand reputation
- Analyse data to understand what works best and adjust strategies accordingly.
- Monitoring social media trends and keeping oneself updated
Employment Scope Career Options for Social Media Manager
Social Media Managers have career opportunities in sectors such as corporate organisations, digital marketing agencies, e-commerce companies, NGOs, or even in government agencies.
Those who aren’t interested in doing a full-time job can start a business offering freelance social media management services to small businesses and individuals.
Companies often recruit skilled Social Media Managers in job titles such as Advertising Manager, Content Manager, PR Manager, etc.
Companies such as Accenture, Fox Digital, Tata Consultancy Services, Dell Technologies, HCL Technologies Ltd., Swiggy, Amazon, Thomas Cook Ltd., Genpact, etc. are the leading ones that hire Social Media Managers.
Salary Range
In India, the salary range for Social Media Managers depends on experience, location, and the size of the company.
Entry-level Social Media Managers can earn a minimum package of 3 to 5 lacs per year. Senior Social Media Managers working in top companies can earn a package of 12 lacs per year, and in some cases, it can go beyond 15 lacs.
Entrance Exam for Social Media Management Course
The entrance exams for the Social Media Management course depend on the institute. Some institutes provide admission based on the marks obtained in the entrance exams, while others give admission based on merit, i.e. marks obtained in grade 12.
The best courses to become a Social Media Manager are a Bachelor’s in Business Administration (BBA), a Bachelor’s in Digital Marketing, and a Bachelor’s in Journalism and Mass Communication (BJMC).
CAT, MAT, XAT, etc. are common entrance exams conducted for an MBA in Digital Marketing, while the IIMC entrance exam is for a Bachelor’s in Journalism and Mass Communication (BJMC).
Entrance Exam for Social Media Management Course
Social Media Management is a vast concept. It involves content creation, community engagement, platform analytics, advertising strategies, reputation management, etc. So, one needs to carefully choose the right course as per their interest and area of expertise.
Candidates can follow the below steps to become a Social Media Manager:
Enrol in Formal Education
There is no specific degree in Social Media Management. But candidates can complete their Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication, Journalism, or Digital Marketing to gain the necessary knowledge to succeed in this field.
Social Media Management courses are available both online and offline. Candidates can opt as per their convenience.
Graduation courses are usually 3 years, postgraduate courses are 2 years, diplomas are 1 year, and certification courses can be for 3 to 6 months.
Free certificate courses in social media management are also available on websites like Coursera and Udemy. Candidates can also take certificate courses in content marketing and SEO on platforms like edX, Coursera, and Udemy, which offer both paid and unpaid options.
Internship
After completing the formal education, the next step is to do an internship to gain relevant work experience. Candidates can work in companies under experienced Social Media Managers.
Internships also help to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, develop practical skills, and establish professional networks within the industry.
Build a Portfolio
Building a strong portfolio is the next step. You can display your skills and highlight your successful projects in the portfolio.
A well-prepared portfolio not only demonstrates your abilities but also builds credibility in the competitive field of social media management.
Begin Your Career
There are numerous job opportunities available. You can begin your career by applying for entry-level positions in social media management, digital marketing agencies, corporate companies, or startups.
Skills Required to Become a Social Media Manager
Creativity is the most important skill to succeed as a Social Media Manager. Similarly, you also need to have sound technical knowledge.
Knowledge about the various social media platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter, and TikTok is essential.
Other essential skills are good communication skills, team handling, marketing skills, adaptability, content creation, knowledge about graphic design, SEO, and analytical skills.
Top Colleges for Social Media Management Course
Some of the top colleges in India for courses related to Social Media Management include Bhavans College, Thakur College, KES College, NMIMS, etc. in Mumbai, Delhi University, Patna University, Christ University – Bangalore, etc.
Candidates who wish to pursue a Master’s degree can take admission to IIM University, Parul University, Welingkar Institute, MET University, NMIMS, etc.
These colleges offer programs in business administration, digital marketing, journalism, and mass communication, providing students with the necessary skills to excel in social media management.
Fees for Social Media Management Course
The fees for a Social Media Management course in India vary depending on the institution and the course duration.
Short-term online courses can cost between 10,000 to 50,000. A full-time degree or diploma course is comparatively expensive and can cost around 1 lac to 5 lacs.
Final Thoughts
A career as a Social Media Manager can be rewarding and dynamic. It offers opportunities to work across various industries and play a crucial role in shaping a company’s online presence.
With the increasing importance of social media in marketing and communication, there’s a high demand for skilled professionals who can create engaging content, build communities, and drive business growth through digital platforms.