What is a Social Media Manager? Discover What They Do and How to Become One

If you’ve been checking out job listings, you’ve probably seen the role of a social media manager popping up everywhere. It’s because businesses need someone to handle their online presence on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Social media managers create posts, run campaigns, and make sure a brand stays connected with its audience.

This role is in high demand, and it will only grow as more businesses move online. If you’re wondering what is a social media manager’s task, how much they earn, or how to get started in this career, you’re in the right place. Let’s break it down!

New to social media marketing? 

Explore this in-depth tutorial to learn the fundamentals of social media advertising and how it fits into a manager's role

What Is a Social Media Manager?

A social media manager is a professional who handles an organization’s social media presence. They are responsible for planning, implementing, managing, and monitoring strategies to connect with the audience, increase brand visibility, and achieve business goals. Their role involves understanding the target audience, selecting the right platforms, and crafting content that resonates with users.

Real-World Example:

For example, a social media manager for a coffee shop launching a new seasonal menu might:

• Post aesthetic photos of pumpkin spice lattes on Instagram.
• Start a hashtag challenge, like #SipTheSeason, on Instagram.
• Engage with followers by replying to comments or reposting customer photos.

Their ultimate goal? To ensure the brand remains visible, relatable, and impactful across platforms.

What Does a Social Media Manager Do?

Social media managers juggle multiple tasks to maintain and grow a brand’s digital presence. Here’s a closer look at their responsibilities:

Key Responsibilities

1. Develop and Implement Strategies

They align social media plans with business goals.

• Scenario: A fitness brand aiming to boost app downloads could create a campaign showcasing workout tips on Instagram Stories.

2. Create and Schedule Content

Design and publish engaging posts, including text, images, and videos.

• Scenario: An electronics company shares tutorial videos on YouTube while scheduling daily posts for upcoming product launches.

3. Engage with the Audience

Monitor comments, messages, and tags, responding promptly and professionally.

• Scenario: A travel agency answers trip-related questions on Facebook while resharing travel photos from happy customers.

4. Analyze Metrics and Improve Performance

Track performance through data insights and adjust strategies accordingly.

• Scenario: If Instagram Reels outperform static posts, the manager pivots to create more video content.

5. Stay Updated with Trends

Keep up with platform changes and popular trends to keep content fresh and relevant.

• Scenario: Jumping on a viral Instagram challenge to showcase a new product in a fun, relatable way.

What Is a Social Media Manager’s Skill Requirements?

Essential Skills

• Creativity
• Communication
• Analytical Thinking
• Time Management
• Strategic Thinking
• Attention to Detail

Tools Social Media Managers Use

Soft Skills

• Adaptability
• Crisis Management
• Collaboration
• Problem-Solving
• Emotional Intelligence
• Multitasking
• Storytelling

Combining Skills and Tools

A skilled social media manager uses these tools and abilities to run successful campaigns. For instance:

• They rely on content tools like Canva or Adobe Premiere Pro to create professional visuals and videos.
• Scheduling tools like Later ensure posts go live at optimal times.
• With analytics platforms such as Google Analytics, they analyze audience behavior and adjust strategies.

• Soft skills like problem-solving and emotional intelligence help manage crises, while collaboration tools like Trello keep the team organized and informed.

  Building impactful campaigns is key for any social media manager. 

Learn how to create successful social media campaigns with strategies that drive engagement and results.

How Much Does a Social Media Manager Earn?

The salary of a social media manager varies depending on experience, industry, and location. Here’s a breakdown of average salary ranges:

Factors Affecting Salary:

• Experience: Professionals with advanced SMM skills and certifications command higher salaries.
• Industry: High-growth industries like e-commerce and technology often offer the best pay.
• Location: Metropolitan cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi typically pay more due to demand and cost of living.

Industries Hiring Social Media Managers

Social media managers are in demand across diverse industries. Here are some of the top sectors hiring for this role:

1. E-commerce and Retail: INR 6-15 LPA.
2. Entertainment and Media: INR 5-12 LPA.
3. Healthcare and Wellness: INR 4-10 LPA.
4. Travel and Hospitality: INR 5-10 LPA.
5. Technology and Startups: INR 6-20 LPA.
6. Education: INR 4-8 LPA.
7. Financial Services: INR 5-12 LPA.
8. Non-Profit Organizations: INR 3-6 LPA.
9. FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods): INR 6-15 LPA.
10. Real Estate: INR 5-12 LPA.

How to Become a Social Media Manager

Becoming a social media manager involves a mix of education, hands-on practice, and staying updated with industry trends. Follow these steps to build your career:

1. Earn Relevant Education

Start by obtaining a degree in marketing, communications, business, or any related field.

A bachelor’s degree in marketing teaches you the fundamentals of audience behavior, branding, and campaign strategies.

2. Master Social Media Tools

Familiarize yourself with tools used for scheduling, content creation, and analytics.

• Use Hootsuite or Buffer to plan and schedule posts.
• Try Canva to create engaging visuals for platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
• Use Google Analytics to track how social media efforts drive website traffic.

3. Build an Online Portfolio

Create a portfolio that showcases your ability to manage social media campaigns. If you lack real-world experience, design mock projects.

Run a hypothetical campaign for a local coffee shop, creating Instagram posts, stories, and ad samples.

4. Get Certifications

Certifications validate your expertise and make you stand out to employers.

• Explore certifications and tutorials offered by upGrad to master social media marketing strategies and enhance your professional skills.

5. Stay Updated

The social media landscape changes rapidly. Follow blogs, attend webinars, and stay active on professional platforms.

• Read blogs on upGrad’s website for insights into the latest social media trends.

• Join free webinars on social media trends offered by platforms.

  Want to stand out as a social media manager? 

Check out top social media marketing techniques that professionals use to stay ahead.

How Online Courses Can Make It Easier to Become a Social Media Manager

Online courses offer an easy, flexible way to gain the skills you need, from mastering content creation to building winning strategies. 

With upGrad, you’ll get access to industry-relevant tools, hands-on projects, and mentorship from experts who know what works.

Why Learn with upGrad?

• Bite-Sized Tutorials (Social Media Marketing tutorial): Master tools like Canva, Hootsuite, and Facebook Ads with step-by-step lessons.
• Globally Recognized Certifications: Earn credentials like:
• Professional Certificate in Social Media Marketing
• Advanced Certificate in Digital Marketing and Communication from MICA

Join upGrad today and learn everything you need to stand out!

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Source:
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/social-media-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,20.htm