Social media management is one of the most in-demand careers today. Businesses, influencers, and brands need experts to handle their online presence, engage with audiences, and drive growth. If you love creating content, analyzing trends, and helping brands succeed online, becoming a social media manager could be the perfect career for you.
This guide will walk you through what a social media manager does, the skills you need, and how to start your journey.
What Does a Social Media Manager Do?
A social media manager is responsible for planning, creating, and managing content across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok. The role includes:
✅ Content Creation – Writing posts, designing graphics, and making videos.
✅ Community Management – Engaging with followers, responding to comments, and managing customer interactions.
✅ Social Media Strategy – Planning campaigns, scheduling posts, and optimizing content for engagement.
✅ Analytics & Reporting – Tracking performance using tools like Meta Business Suite and Google Analytics.
✅ Paid Advertising – Running social media ads to increase reach and conversions.
Step 1: Develop the Right Skills
To succeed as a social media manager, you need a mix of creative, analytical, and technical skills.
🎨 Creative Skills
- Writing engaging captions and blog posts.
- Designing eye-catching graphics using Canva or Adobe Express.
- Creating short-form videos for Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts.
📊 Analytical Skills
- Understanding social media insights (likes, shares, comments, reach, impressions).
- Using tools like Google Analytics, Facebook Insights, and Instagram Analytics.
- A/B testing content to see what works best.
⚙️ Technical Skills
- Running Facebook and Instagram Ads.
- Using social media management tools like Hootsuite, Buffer, or Later.
- SEO knowledge for optimizing posts and blogs.
💡 Tip: Start practicing by managing your own social media or helping a small business for free.
Step 2: Learn Social Media Marketing
Formal training isn’t required, but taking courses can help you build expertise. Here are some free and paid resources to learn:
🆓 Free Courses:
- Meta Blueprint (Facebook & Instagram) – https://www.facebook.com/business/learn
- Google Digital Garage (Marketing Basics) – https://learndigital.withgoogle.com/digitalgarage
- HubSpot Social Media Certification – https://academy.hubspot.com/courses/social-media
💰 Paid Courses (Advanced Skills):
- SMM Success School – smmsuccessschool.com
- Udemy Social Media Marketing Courses
- Coursera Digital Marketing Specializations
Step 3: Gain Hands-On Experience
🔹 Manage Your Own Social Media – Build your personal brand by sharing valuable content.
🔹 Offer Free or Low-Cost Services – Help small businesses or nonprofits in exchange for testimonials.
🔹 Internships & Freelancing – Apply for internships or find gigs on Upwork and Fiverr.
🔹 Join Social Media Communities – Network with other marketers on LinkedIn and Facebook groups.
Step 4: Build Your Portfolio & Resume
To get clients or jobs, you need proof of your skills. Create a portfolio with:
📌 Before & After Social Media Results – Show engagement growth, follower increase, or sales conversions.
📌 Content Samples – Screenshots of posts, captions, and graphics you’ve created.
📌 Client Testimonials – Reviews from small businesses or brands you’ve worked with.
👉 Use Canva or Notion to create a digital portfolio.
Step 5: Apply for Jobs or Start Freelancing
💼 Where to Find Jobs
- LinkedIn Jobs – Search “Social Media Manager” and apply directly.
- Indeed & Glassdoor – Look for remote and full-time positions.
- Company Websites – Check brands’ career pages for openings.
🏠 Freelancing Platforms
If you prefer to work independently, sign up for:
- Fiverr (www.fiverr.com)
- Upwork (www.upwork.com)
- PeoplePerHour (www.peopleperhour.com)
💡 Tip: Offer niche services like “Instagram Growth Strategy” or “TikTok Content Creation” to stand out.
How Much Do Social Media Managers Make?
Earnings vary based on experience and location. Here’s an estimate:
💰 Beginner: ₦750,000 – ₦2,250,000/month
💰 Mid-Level: ₦3,000,000 – ₦6,750,000/month
💰 Expert/Freelancer: ₦7,500,000+/month
Freelancers can charge ₦30,000 – ₦150,000 per hour, depending on expertise.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a social media manager takes practice, learning, and consistency. Follow these 5 steps, and you can start your journey today:
✔️ Learn social media skills.
✔️ Take free/paid courses.
✔️ Get hands-on experience.
✔️ Build a strong portfolio.
✔️ Apply for jobs or freelance.
🚀 Ready to start? Check out courses on SMM Success School and get expert training today!