A Social Media Manager is a digital marketing professional responsible for creating, curating, and managing content across social media platforms to grow brand awareness, engage audiences, and drive business goals. Working for brands, businesses, influencers, or agencies, they develop strategies to increase visibility, manage online communities, and analyse performance metrics. With expertise in content creation, digital marketing, and social media trends, they help brands connect with their target audience and stay competitive in the digital space.
Details
What Does a Social Media Manager Do?
Social Media Managers create and execute strategies that build a brand’s online presence, ensuring consistent engagement and audience growth. They plan, post, and analyse content while monitoring trends and interactions to maximise impact.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement social media strategies aligned with business goals.
- Create engaging content, including images, videos, captions, and stories.
- Manage daily posting schedules across platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Twitter.
- Monitor audience engagement and respond to comments, messages, and reviews.
- Use analytics tools (Meta Business Suite, Google Analytics, Sprout Social) to track performance and optimise content.
- Collabourate with marketing teams, influencers, and content creators to expand reach.
- Stay up-to-date with social media trends, algorithm updates, and best practises.
- Run paid advertising campaigns to increase brand awareness and conversions.
- Develop and manage social media calendars, promotions, and brand collabourations.
Work Environments:
Social Media Managers work in various industries and business types, including:
Corporate & Brand Marketing Teams
Managing social media for businesses and organisations.
Beauty, Fashion, & Lifestyle Brands
Engaging audiences with visual storytelling.
E-Commerce & Retail Companies
Driving online sales and product awareness.
Hospitality & Events Industry
Promoting experiences, restaurants, and travel destinations.
Influencers & Personal Brands
Managing personal branding and content growth.
Digital Marketing Agencies
Handling multiple client accounts across industries.
Freelance & Consulting
Running independent social media services for businesses.
Skills & Qualifications
Skills required:
Creativity & Content Creation:
Ability to design visually appealing content.
Copywriting & Storytelling:
Writing compelling captions and brand messaging.
Social Media Strategy & Planning:
Developing engagement-focused campaigns.
Analytics & Performance Tracking:
Understanding metrics to improve strategy.
Paid Advertising & SEO Awareness:
Managing social media ad campaigns.
Community Engagement & Customer Service:
Building an active and loyal audience.
Project Management & Organisation:
Handling multiple accounts and content calendars.
Qualifications required:
While experience in digital marketing is key, formal qualifications can enhance career prospects:
Certificate IV in Marketing & Communication (BSB40820)
Covers foundational marketing strategies.
Diploma of Social Media Marketing (10904NAT)
Specialises in social media content and advertising.
Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing, Digital Media, or Communications
Ideal for senior roles.
Social Media & Digital Marketing Short Courses
Offered by Meta (Facebook), Google, HubSpot, Udemy, and Coursera.
Graphic Design & Video Editing Skills
Proficiency in Canva, Adobe Photoshop, Final Cut Pro, or CapCut.
Career Growth & Opportunities
Social Media Managers can advance into:
Social Media Director or Head of Digital Marketing
Leading brand marketing strategies.
Influencer Marketing & Brand Partnerships Manager
Handling influencer collaborations.
E-Commerce & Paid Advertising Specialist
Managing online stores and digital ads.
Content Creator or Personal Brand Consultant
Building individual brands and businesses.
Freelance or Agency Owner
Running a social media agency for multiple clients.