Becoming a Social Media Manager Without a Degree

Are you interested in becoming a social media manager, but don’t have a degree in the field? You’re not alone. There are a lot of people looking for ways to break into this exciting field. Fortunately, although a degree isn’t necessary, there are other qualities and essential skills you’ll need to master in order to stand out.

In this article, well explore those factors, as well as potential new roles for SMMs in the age of artificial intelligence (AI).

Experience Is Key

The most important factor when looking to become a social media manager without a degree is to have a thorough level of experience. Social media managers need to know how to successfully launch campaigns, target the right audience, and measure the results. Having prior experience in the field can be achieved through managing your own accounts or helping out with the accounts of others. Start by learning and understanding the social networks and how they work, and then experiment with your own accounts. You should also start your own blog to give you more experience in content curation, writing, and providing insight into analytics.

Secondly, reach out to local businesses or start-ups and offer to manage their accounts for free or for a nominal fee. Volunteering for this kind of experience is a great way to gain perspective and hone your skills.

Finding the Right Knowledge

Aside from the work experience, SMMs need to stay up to date on the latest trends in social media marketing. Reading books and blog posts, attending conferences and networking with industry professionals are all great methods to stay informed. Also, take the time to familiarize yourself with relevant tools (like social media dashboards) and analytics programs. Doing this will show potential employers or clients that you’re knowledgeable and prepared to take on the job.

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence

AI technology is changing the way social media marketing is done. SMMs must be aware of the various AI tools available, and understand how they can be utilized to increase engagement and drive results. Automation will also increase in the coming years, replacing some of the more mundane tasks. Therefore, SMMs should focus their efforts on creativity and strategic thinking, as this will be the key differentiator when competing in the SMM job market.

Conclusion

Although the path for becoming a social media manager without a degree may seem daunting, there are plenty of ways to gain the necessary experience and skills. Start by gaining experience, researching the field, and mastering the tools and trends available. Finally, with the growth of AI technology, SMMs must be prepared to focus on creativity and strategic thinking. If you’re able to find success in this, you’ll be well on your way to a successful career.