Not all social media managers are created equal—in fact, there are social media managers, or SMM, who are good at what they do but could be so much better with their craft. In today’s dynamic social media landscape, they should be able to adapt to this fast and ever-changing arena. Here are five things you need to teach your social media manager that will take them to the next level.
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Creativity
Creativity is a gift that keeps on giving: the more you use it, the more you have it. Being able to explore social media’s potential requires thinking outside of the box. Creativity is an essential component of this. And contrary to popular belief, creativity can be cultivated. So how can you teach creativity exactly? Simple: carry a notebook and start putting words—or images—to paper. Passing thoughts, reminders, ideas, drawings—anything goes. This allows your creative juices to keep flowing.
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Writing
You don’t need to be the next Hemingway to be a great SMM, but the ability to write clearly and concisely is crucial and unfortunately underutilized by many. Social media is all about communication, and being able to write well allows your SMM to fully embody your brand’s voice and have a better understanding of what needs to be said and how it needs to come across.
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People skills
Just because everything now happens online doesn’t mean you no longer have any need for interpersonal skills. Remember: behind every computer or mobile screen is still a real person, and a keen understanding of what makes people tick goes a long way in building lasting relationships.
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Data analysis
Excellent SMMs know how to read data, both quantitative and qualitative. They know how to read between the lines. They know how to turn data into actionable strategies. This is another area in which creativity lends a hand. Data can be beautiful, and SMMs should be able to transform pure, hard data into something both stakeholders and the brand can both understand.
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Public speaking
No one likes to talk in public. Even those who are actually great at it. Public speaking is intimidating and nerve-racking. But in a time where almost every social media platform has its own live video function, it has become increasingly important for social media managers to be able to present in front of live audiences and speak well.
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