How to get started with a
career in social media marketing

Whether you're scroll through TikTok or seeing an ad appear in your Instagram stories, you're experiencing digital marketing in action. But what does it take not just to get started, but to truly succeed in this fast-moving industry?

02 Aug 2024

In today’s digital-first world, social media marketing has become an essential skill for businesses looking to connect with audiences, build brand awareness and, perhaps most importantly, make sales.

Whether you're scroll through TikTok or seeing an ad appear in your Instagram stories, you're experiencing digital marketing in action. But what does it take not just to get started, but to truly succeed in this fast-moving industry?

If you're thinking about a career in digital marketing or social media, you might be wondering how to get started. This short guide will answer some key questions and help you figure out the next steps on your path to towards landing your first social media job.

What is social media marketing?

Social media marketing is using platforms such as Instagram and TikTok (and the many other social media sites) to promote brands, products and services.

It has become a crucial component of digital marketing. Every year social media becomes a bigger part of how businesses engage with audiences to increase their brand awareness and generate sales.

However, social media is far more complex than simply uploading a nice picture or video with a quick caption. So much more is happening behind the scenes:

• Researching trends and target audiences
• Developing content and communication plans
• Building a marketing strategy
• Creating a brand identity that resonates with key consumers
• Collaborating with other marketeers, companies and digital influencers

Mastering these elements ensures that brands can effectively engage with their audiences and achieve business success in a competitive digital world.

How do you get into social media marketing?

To get a job in social media marketing you'll need a mix of technical skills, understanding of business strategy and a creative mind.

One way to get started is to gain hands-on experience by managing personal or small business social media accounts.

Keep an eye out for internships and freelance projects that may help you get a foot in the door. Also, if you can try networking with industry professionals. They'll have valuable insights you can learn from and may be an opening for future opportunities.

You can also look at exploring social media courses or a degree in digital and social media marketing.

What is a social media degree?

A degree in digital marketing or social media marketing provides practical training and a deeper understanding of the business side of the marketing industry.

You'll learn about digital marketing principles and strategies, content creation, and online engagement.

Do you need a degree for social media marketing?

No, a degree is not a mandatory requirement for a career in social media marketing.

However, a degree in digital marketing can provide more in-depth and broader learning than a short course. It'll also offer more industry insights, networking opportunities and give you a competitive edge in the job market.

Most universities also have careers teams that can support you with further work opportunities and provide advice that will help you to stand out in a competitive job market.

What can you do with a digital marketing degree?

If you graduate from a degree in digital marketing you'll ready to apply your expertise in any industry.

All sectors need marketeers and creatives. The breadth of skills and depth of knowledge you'll gain through a social media marketing degree will prepare you for wherever you land your first role.

Where can you study social media marketing?

There are many places around the word that offer social media marketing courses.

At UCA, we offer a three-year undergraduate degree in Digital Marketing and Social Media that gives practical training on using social media as a business tool, as well as learning about the impact of social media on society.