What Is a Social Media Specialist?

Do you find yourself recreating the latest TikTok dances? Are you a serial #hashtagger? Do you get your news from Twitter and Instagram? If any of this sounds like you, a social media specialist role might be right for you! Follow along to learn what a social media specialist is, what they do, and what you need to do to become a social media specialist.
Social media has come a long way since the early 2000s (anyone remember MySpace?). Today, it is a very powerful tool for individuals and companies to share their stories, messages, and products or services. In 2021, Statista reported more than four billion people worldwide were using social media. With these numbers, all companies need to use social media to successfully sell their products or services.
What is a social media specialist?
A social media specialist is a key teammate of the marketing team. They use social media platforms to create and share content online to benefit the organization. They are responsible for using their company’s social media accounts to enhance and maintain brand reputation.
What does a social media specialist do?
Social media specialist roles tend to be entry-level positions or only require a minimum amount of experience; therefore, they spend a lot of time executing rather than strategizing. Social media specialists work with the marketing team and leadership to execute the message they want to get across. This position is the liaison between the operations side of marketing and the creative department.
Job responsibilities include:
What education and skills are needed to become a social media specialist?
Typically, hiring managers look for candidates with a bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, communications, journalism, or another related field. The skills you bring to the position are equally as important as your education. Hiring managers look for outgoing, organized, and creative people, as well as the following skills:
Is social media a growing field? Will I get hired?
The simple answer to this question is yes! According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, social media specialist positions are expected to grow 11 percent by 2030 (much faster than the average for all occupations). The average annual salary is $62,810. Demand for social media specialists is always increasing, as companies are learning that this position is necessary. Social media platforms are an easy, cost-effective way to build brand reputation and promote a product or service. Check out the bachelor’s degree in business at Excelsior University to kick-start your career as a social media specialist!