What does a Social Media Coordinator do? How do you become one and career progression

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital communication, the role of a Social Media Coordinator has become increasingly pivotal for businesses and organizations looking to establish and maintain an impactful online presence. This article explores the responsibilities, day-to-day activities, required skills, salary expectations, and the educational path to becoming a Social Media Coordinator.

What does a Social Media Coordinator do?

A Social Media Coordinator is responsible for managing an organization’s online presence across various social media platforms. Their primary objective is to create engaging content, interact with the audience, and implement strategies to enhance brand visibility. Key responsibilities include:

1. Content Creation: Developing and curating relevant and engaging content that aligns with the brand’s voice and values.
2. Community Engagement: Actively engaging with the audience through comments, messages, and other interactions to build and maintain a strong online community.
3. Strategy Development: Formulating and implementing social media strategies to achieve marketing goals, increase brand awareness, and drive user engagement.
4. Analytics and Reporting: Monitoring social media metrics and analyzing data to evaluate the performance of campaigns, making data-driven decisions to optimize future strategies.
5. Stay Updated on Trends: Keeping abreast of social media trends, algorithm changes, and emerging platforms to adapt strategies accordingly.

Day-to-day of a Social Media Coordinator

The day-to-day tasks of a Social Media Coordinator may include:

• Creating and scheduling content calendars.
• Responding to comments, messages, and mentions.
• Collaborating with other departments for cross-functional campaigns.
• Monitoring and analyzing social media metrics.
• Researching industry trends and competitor activities.

What skills does a Social Media Coordinator need?

To excel in this role, a Social Media Coordinator should possess a diverse set of skills, including:

1. Content Creation: Proficiency in creating visually appealing and engaging content.
2. Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills to interact with the online audience effectively.
3. Analytical Abilities: The ability to analyze data and derive insights from social media metrics.
4. Creativity: A creative mindset to develop innovative and attention-grabbing content.
5. Adaptability: The capacity to adapt to rapidly changing social media trends and algorithms.
6. Time Management: Efficiently managing time to meet deadlines and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

How much does a Social Media Coordinator make?

The salary of a Social Media Coordinator varies based on factors such as experience, location, and the size of the employing organization. A median salary globally for a Social Media Coordinator can be between $35,000 to $55,000 per year.

How to be a Social Media Coordinator?

To become a Social Media Coordinator, consider the following steps:

1. Educational Background: While not mandatory, a bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, or a related field is advantageous.
2. Gain Experience: Acquire practical experience through internships, freelance work, or managing your own social media accounts.
3. Build a Portfolio: Showcase your skills by creating a portfolio of your work, including examples of successful campaigns and content.
4. Networking: Connect with professionals in the field, attend industry events, and engage with social media communities to expand your network.
5. Stay Updated: Continuously educate yourself on social media trends, tools, and best practices.

What degree do you need to be a Social Media Coordinator?

While a specific degree is not always a requirement, many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, public relations, or a related field. Relevant coursework provides a foundational understanding of marketing principles, consumer behavior, and communication strategies. However, practical experience, a strong portfolio, and up-to-date knowledge of social media trends are equally crucial for success in this role. If you’d like to have both the practical and hands-on experience and the theoretical coursework then our International Master in Digital Marketing and Business Transformation might be for you.

Career Progression for Social Media Coordinators

1. Social Media Manager: Transitioning into a managerial role involves taking on more responsibilities in terms of strategy development, team management, and overseeing comprehensive social media campaigns.

2. Digital Marketing Specialist: Expanding beyond social media, a Digital Marketing Specialist role involves a broader focus on online marketing channels, including SEO, email marketing, and content marketing.

3. Content Manager: For those passionate about content creation, a move into a Content Manager role involves overseeing the creation, curation, and management of all content produced by a team or organization.

4. Public Relations Specialist: Social Media Coordinators may find success transitioning into a Public Relations Specialist role, managing the public image of a company and handling media relations.

5. Brand Strategist: Focusing on overall brand identity and strategy, a Brand Strategist ensures all aspects of a brand’s presence align with its goals and values.

6. Marketing Communications Manager: In this role, professionals oversee all aspects of marketing communication, including social media, public relations, and content creation, contributing to integrated marketing campaigns.

7. Entrepreneurship or Freelancing: Individuals can opt for entrepreneurship, starting a social media consultancy, freelancing, or becoming a digital marketing entrepreneur, offering services to various clients.

8. Specialized Roles: Consider specializing in areas such as influencer marketing, social media analytics, or community management to become a sought-after specialist in a specific niche.

A Social Media Coordinator plays a crucial role in shaping and maintaining a brand’s online presence. By combining a diverse skill set with practical experience and continuous learning, aspiring individuals can navigate their way into this dynamic and rewarding field.