How to Get Started as a Social Media Manager

Starting a career in social media management can feel exciting and overwhelming at the same time. Every day, people are scrolling through Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook. Brands know this is where attention lives, which is why businesses of all sizes are searching for skilled social media managers who can create content, connect with audiences, and drive real results. If you have ever looked at a funny meme that went viral or a campaign that got everyone talking and thought “I could do that,” then social media management may be the path for you.

Unlike some traditional careers, becoming a social media manager does not always require years of formal education. Many successful managers started with a passion for creating content, a good eye for trends, and a willingness to learn. The job is about combining creativity, strategy, and consistency to help brands shine online. Let us break things down so you can understand who a social media manager is, what the work looks like, how much they earn, and the steps you can take to get started.

Who is a Social Media Manager?

A social media manager is the person behind a brand’s online presence. They plan, create, schedule, and monitor content across social platforms. But it does not stop there. They also respond to comments, analyze engagement, and use data to guide future content decisions.

Think of them as the bridge between a company and its audience. A good manager makes a brand feel human, approachable, and trustworthy. From writing catchy captions to running paid ad campaigns, their work touches almost every part of digital communication.

In Nigeria, Ghana, and other parts of Africa, businesses are increasingly relying on social media managers because customers now spend more time online than on traditional media like TV or radio.

Daily Tasks of a Social Media Manager

To succeed as a social media manager, you must be ready to wear many hats. On a typical day, tasks may include:

• Planning content calendars for different platforms.
• Writing engaging captions that connect with target audiences.
• Designing graphics, editing videos, or working with designers.
• Scheduling posts at the right time for maximum reach.
• Responding to comments and direct messages.
• Tracking performance using analytics tools.
• Brainstorming creative campaign ideas.
• Running paid ad campaigns and monitoring budgets.

It is not just about posting random pictures or tweets. Everything needs to be intentional. For example, a fashion brand may want more sales from Instagram, while a fintech startup may focus on building trust through LinkedIn. A social media manager aligns their work with these goals.

How Much Does a Social Media Manager Make a Year?

Earnings can vary depending on experience, skills, and location. A beginner in Nigeria might earn between ₦80,000 to ₦150,000 per month working for small businesses. More experienced managers handling multiple brands or working with bigger companies can earn ₦300,000 to ₦600,000 monthly. Freelancers who manage several clients may even make over ₦1 million a month if they have the right mix of skills and connections.

Outside Nigeria, salaries differ. In the United States, the average social media manager makes around $55,000 to $70,000 yearly, while in the UK it is about £30,000 to £45,000. Freelancers abroad can earn much more, depending on the clients they work with.

The point is that social media management can be financially rewarding if you put in the work, keep learning, and position yourself as someone who delivers real results.

How to Be the Best Social Media Manager

If you want to stand out in this career, you need more than just basic posting skills. Here are practical tips:

1. Learn the platforms deeply – Each platform has its own culture and audience. What works on TikTok may not work on LinkedIn.
2. Stay updated with trends – Social media moves fast. A trend today may be forgotten tomorrow. Learn how to adapt quickly.
3. Understand analytics – Brands want results. You must know how to read data, track engagement, and show growth.
4. Develop good writing skills – Good captions and clear messaging can make all the difference.
5. Know basic design and video editing – Even if you are not a professional designer, tools like Canva and CapCut can help.
6. Communicate well with clients – Social media management is not just about creativity but also about handling expectations and presenting results clearly.

The best managers combine creativity with strategy. They do not just chase likes but focus on helping brands grow in ways that matter.

Social Media Manager vs Digital Marketing Manager

While these roles may sound similar, they are different.

• Social Media Manager: Focuses on content creation, engagement, and growth across social media platforms. Their work is about community building and brand voice online.
• Digital Marketing Manager: Oversees a broader strategy that includes social media, SEO, email marketing, paid ads, and sometimes offline campaigns.

In simple terms, a social media manager is a specialist, while a digital marketing manager is more of a generalist who handles multiple channels. In smaller companies, one person might handle both roles, but larger businesses often separate them.

Getting Started as a Social Media Manager

If you are serious about starting this career, here are steps you can take:

1. Build your own presence – Before managing others, show that you can grow your own social media accounts.
2. Take online courses – Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and HubSpot offer affordable courses on social media marketing.
3. Practice with small businesses – Offer your services to startups or NGOs at a lower cost to gain experience.
4. Learn about ads – Paid ads are a huge part of social media today, and knowing how to run them gives you an advantage.
5. Create a portfolio – Document your results. Show how you increased engagement, grew followers, or boosted sales for a client.
6. Network – Join online groups, attend marketing events, and connect with other professionals.

One reason this career is attractive is because it keeps growing. Social media platforms are expanding every year, and businesses are spending more money on digital marketing. As a manager, you can work full-time with a company, freelance for multiple clients, or even start your own agency.

Some social media managers eventually move into roles like digital strategist, content director, or brand consultant. The opportunities are wide if you stay consistent and keep improving your skills.

Social media management is a career that blends creativity, marketing knowledge, and strategy. For people who enjoy connecting with audiences, following trends, and helping brands grow, it can be both fulfilling and financially rewarding. Those who take the time to learn, practice, and build results will always have opportunities waiting for them.