Getting into social media marketing with no experience can seem like a daunting task, we all have phones at are fingertips but to know the industry, tricks of the trade and actually get paid for it, is a whole different ball game. Especially if you are looking to make a career out of social media marketing. In todays world dominated by online, social connections and engagement, social media marketing has become an indispensable tool for businesses. If you’re eager to dive into the world of social media marketing but perhaps lack professional experience, fear not! In this article we will talk you through the essential steps to get started in social media marketing with no experience whereby you can eventually transition into freelancing or working for a digital agency.
Understand the Landscape
For beginners or those aspiring to turn their interest in social media into a lucrative career, navigating the vast landscape of online learning is crucial. There are so many resources to educate yourself, starting with well known online platforms that offer specialised courses in social media marketing for beginners. Sites like HubSpot Academy, Google Digital Garage, and LinkedIn Learning provide a tone of beginner-friendly courses, ranging from the fundamentals of social media strategy to advanced analytics. Delving into these courses means that even if you have no experience in social media marketing, you can get a solid understanding of the intricate workings of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Complementing theoretical knowledge, staying on top of of industry trends and best practices is equally important. Subscribing to industry emails or blogs, tuning into podcasts, and reading publications by seasoned marketers, like Social Media Examiner or Buffer, ensures a continuous influx of up-to-date insights. Furthermore, engaging with online communities and forums, both on and off social media platforms, allows beginners to tap into the collective wisdom of experienced professionals. By actively participating in discussions, asking questions, and sharing experiences, novices can gain practical knowledge and valuable advice.
Create a Strong Online Presence
Develop your personal brand on social media. Showcasing your skills will not only enhance your credibility but also serve as a portfolio for potential employers or clients.
For those embarking on the journey of becoming a social media manager or perhaps if you are looking to become a freelance social media manager or work for an agency – cultivating a strong online personal presence is not just a beneficial step but a strategic move! Establishing a strong personal brand through regular participation on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, TikTok and Instagram not just enhances your visability but also serves as a great learning experience where you can pick up skills to pass onto your clients. By immersing yourself in these platforms, you can get real hands-on knowledge of content creation, engagement strategies, and audience analytics. Focusing on writing and creating a professional narrative across all of your platforms showcases your versatility. Using LinkedIn as a primary space for professional networking and updates is also a great way to showcase your knowledge and keep followers up to date with industry news and your take on it. Engaging with industry-specific groups or agencies, sharing insightful content, and networking with professionals help to create a deeper understanding of trends and real life implementation. Tiktok also holds a great opportunity to get yourself in front of the camera and talk about your experience, knowledge and learnings. Have a look at who else uses the platform and how other social media specialists, social media freelancers or agencies use the space to discuss strategy and client work.
Build a Portfolio
One impactful method for aspiring social media marketers to kickstart their journey without prior experience is to proactively create and manage social media accounts, not only for personal branding but also for friends, local businesses, or nonprofits. This hands-on approach help as a practical training tool, allowing beginners to experiment with content creation, audience engagement, and analytics. If you are looking to get into social media marketing with no experience then being able to learn and test your skills in those first few years is invaluable. The experience gained from steering these accounts provides tangible evidence of skills and accomplishments, effectively building a strong portfolio. Whether you are making content calendars, running targeted campaigns, or analysing performance metrics, this self starter approach helps social media beginners with real-world insights into social media marketing. Volunteering for friends or local companies showcases your initiative and community engagement, positioning the budding marketer as a valuable asset. As these initial accounts and relationships bear fruit, they not only become fantastic talking points in interviews but also provide a foundation for winning future business or freelance opportunities, showcasing practical expertise that goes beyond just knowledge. This hands-on, trial-and-error method becomes a pivotal stepping stone for those seeking to establish themselves in the competitive realm of social media marketing.
Networking is Key
According to a survey by Statista, 65% of UK professionals believe that professional networking is crucial for career success. Attending industry events, taking part in online webinars, and joining professional groups are vital ways to help if you are venturing into social media marketing with no experience. These options offer a load of opportunities to broaden your knowledge base, stay on top of emerging trends, and get insights from experienced professionals. Networking, both online and offline, plays a vital role in social media marketing, as it provides a platform to connect with like-minded individuals, share ideas, and learn from others’ experiences. Joining groups on platforms like LinkedIn created a sense of community, offering a space for novices to pose questions, seek advice, and engage in discussions with industry experts. This is what Women in Agencies is all about! Building connections through these networks not only enriches your understanding of the social industry but also opens doors to potential collaborations, mentorships, and even job opportunities. In the dynamic landscape of social media, where industry dynamics constantly evolve, cultivating a strong professional network is a invaluable asset for those navigating their way into this competitive field.
Pitch Yourself
When crafting your CV for a social media job in the UK, it’s all about showcasing your personality, creativity, and potential, especially if you’re coming in without much social media experience. Start by highlighting any relevant skills, even if they were honed outside of a formal job setting. Whether it’s managing your personal blog, navigating various social platforms, or experimenting with content creation, make sure to bring these experiences to the forefront. Don’t shy away from expressing your enthusiasm for the ever-evolving world of social media; employers often appreciate a genuine passion for the field. Tailor your CV to reflect an understanding of the platforms popular in the UK, such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Even if you haven’t worked in a social media role before, emphasise any transferable skills like communication, creativity, and adaptability. Lastly, if you’ve taken relevant courses or attended workshops, include them to demonstrate your commitment to learning and growth. Remember, it’s not just about what you’ve done in the past, but how your unique blend of skills and personality can bring a fresh perspective to the social media landscape.
When you are ready, start freelancing
Venturing into the realm of freelancing can be a game-changer for aspiring social media managers looking to kickstart their career in the UK. Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr serve as bustling marketplaces where opportunities abound for those with a knack for social media marketing. To get started, create a profile that pops – highlight your skills, enthusiasm, and any relevant experiences you’ve gathered, even if they’re from personal projects. Craft a compelling bio that showcases your personality and what makes you stand out. Consider offering initial services at a slightly lower rate to build your profile and accumulate positive reviews. Tailor your gig offerings to what’s in demand – whether it’s creating engaging content, managing social media accounts, or devising effective marketing strategies. Remember, these platforms are not just about securing gigs but building lasting relationships with clients. Be responsive, deliver quality work, and use every project as a learning opportunity. The world of freelancing is a dynamic one, and with a bit of hustle and creativity, you can turn these platforms into launchpads for your career in social media management.
Apply to social media jobs
When it comes to getting started in social media marketing with no experience, it’s all about letting your potential shine – especially when you are looking at social media agency jobs. Sure, you might not have a ton of experience, but what you do have is enthusiasm, a hunger to learn, and a fresh perspective. Think about all you have done to learn about the social media space and your courses, research and knowledge. When you’re pitching yourself, highlight your creativity, passion for social media trends, and any self-taught skills you’ve picked up along the way. Agencies often look for adaptability, so showcase your ability to embrace new platforms and eagerness to stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of social media. Even if your experience is limited, mention any relevant coursework, personal projects, or campaigns you’ve dabbled in. Be authentic, let your personality shine through in the assistant interview, and don’t be afraid to show that you’re not just looking for a job but a chance to grow and contribute to the vibrant digital landscape. Agencies often appreciate a candidate who’s not just ticking boxes but is genuinely excited to dive into the creative chaos of social media.
Want to get started in social media marketing? Whether you are looking to go into freelance social media management or look to work at a social media agency we are here to help connect you with experts to support you along the way. Women in Agencies is a network of inspiring individuals – and you can join us!