What I’ve learnt being the only Social Media manager
Being the sole Social Media Manager can be an exciting and challenging experience. It can feel like a huge responsibility to be the sole person responsible for a company’s online presence. However, with experience comes knowledge, and over the past seven years of being the only Social Media Manager, I have learned some invaluable lessons that I want to share with you.
1. ‘Social Media’ is never just social media
As a Social Media Manager, your job is not limited to creating and posting content on social media platforms. You will also need to link to other content such as website content, blog posts or video content. Being able to think creatively and quickly to create content is a skill that will come in handy in this role.
2. You’ll learn skills that go beyond social media
Beyond algorithm understanding and hashtag optimisation, you’ll also become an expert in other areas such as copywriting, brand management, crisis response, and videography. Being a multitasker is a necessity, and being able to juggle these responsibilities will make you stand out in your role.
3. You’ll need to educate
Colleagues may not fully understand the vastness of your responsibilities. To ensure you have the support of your internal team, it is important to educate them on how much you do and the importance of your role. The more understanding they have, the easier your job will be.
4. Take breaks – yes, stop checking socials when you get home!
With all the responsibilities that come with this role, it can be easy to become overwhelmed. It is important to remember to take breaks and prioritize self-care to prevent burnout. And that means trying to restrict the amount of time you spend on your own social media after you clock off for the day.
5. Analytics actually become fun
Maybe it’s just the nerd in me, but one of the most enjoyable parts of the job is checking your analytics. It’s exciting to see how well your content is performing and using that data to create more effective strategies for future posts. However, it’s not just about gathering data – it’s about understanding it and using it to make informed decisions. Being able to interpret metrics such as engagement rates, click-through rates, and conversions will help you create more effective social media strategies.
6. Communication is key
As the sole Social Media Manager, you are the primary point of contact between the company and its customers on social media. It is essential to maintain open communication channels and respond promptly to any customer inquiries or concerns. Good communication skills will help you build trust with customers and ensure a positive brand image.
7. Flexibility is essential
The world of social media is constantly evolving, and you must stay up-to-date with the latest trends, changes in algorithms, and new platforms. As a Social Media Manager, you need to be flexible and adaptable to change. This requires a willingness to learn new skills, experiment with new strategies, and adjust your approach to stay relevant.
8. Collaboration is crucial
While you may be the only Social Media Manager, you are not working in a vacuum. You need to collaborate with other departments, such as marketing, sales, and customer service, to ensure a cohesive brand message across all channels. Building strong relationships with your colleagues and understanding their goals will help you create content that supports their objectives.
9. Be passionate!
Finally, to be successful as a Social Media Manager, you need to have a genuine passion for social media and a deep understanding of its potential to connect brands with their customers. This passion will help you stay motivated, stay up-to-date with the latest trends, and ultimately create content that resonates with your audience.
Being the only Social Media Manager can be challenging, but it can also be a rewarding experience that provides you with a diverse set of skills. If you’re considering a career in social media management, be prepared to wear many hats and stay on top of trends and innovations in the industry. And remember, always prioritise self-care to avoid burnout.
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