When looking to develop a brand, businesses may employ staff to help establish an online presence via the various networking platforms. Social Media Marketing (SMM) is a growing industry and has created a demand for recruitment agencies to source candidates with digital skills for in-house, agency or freelance jobs.
Recruiting Social Media employees
Recruitment for the role can be carried out by a range of employment consultancies, including those that specialise in Marketing, Digital and PR. Social networking has become important amongst all business types for audience engagement, meaning that candidates could be recruited by local charities, large private sector firms or the government. Permanent jobs within a Marketing department are common, however contract and freelance roles can be found for candidates who favour flexible working.
Job description and barriers to entry
Careers in Social Media involve managing a company’s online presence on popular networking sites such as Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. Responsibilities might include producing and sharing content, responding to customer posts and generally promoting a brand. Job titles can vary and professionals may be known as Social Media Managers, Executives or Specialists. Qualifications aren’t always needed to find employment, but recruiters may search for candidates with a degree and / or experience in Advertising, Media or Marketing. Once in the role, staff can additionally work towards job specific qualifications awarded by the CIM.