by Nasreen Shaikh | 17 Jan 2018 We’re in the age of Social Media where its not only a platform for people to communicate and share content with each other, but also a powerful marketing tool for business. Its no wonder why the Social Media Marketing industry has grown drastically, with 90% of marketers now using it as an effective marketing strategy. With its growth, comes its need for more marketers to understand how to use social media to attract and retain potential and existing customers. So without further ado, here’s a few tips on how to prepare for a career in social media marketing: 1. Get on Social Media! If you’re reading this, and don’t have at least 3 social media accounts – do you live under a rock? Alright, I’m kidding, but seriously, get on social media now! Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn are just to name a few, and its a good idea to be on most if not all of them. Be your own first client, earn the ropes on each of them and market yourself. If you have a niche interest, like scenic photography, travel, or even collecting coins, showcase it! If you stick to an interest and use relevant hashtags, you’re more likely to be followed by people who share the same interests as you. Its best to master two social media sites, and become an expert in both of them! 2. Know what’s going on in the Social Media Marketing World Keep up to date with new Social Media updates, and social media activities of other brands. Its a great way to see what works and engages with their customers. Learn from their mistakes, and take note of their successes. A great example is Air New Zealand, especially with their new “Mirry Christmus” campaign that pokes fun at our Kiwi accents. With over 57,000 likes on the video, Air NZ can put that one on their success list. Have a watch and take note:   3. Read some Social Media case studies This one may sound boring, but in all honestly, these are really interesting to read, and are beneficial in understanding what works and what doesn’t! Read up on some social media failures like this year’s Pepsi campaign, or Dove’s body controversy. Read more about it here. If you’re looking for inspiration on your next campaign, or are just wanting to brainstorm ideas you could use for yourself in the future, have a look at 40 Inspiring Social Media Case Studies. 4. Do something you can showcase You can start off easy by writing a blog, or opening a Facebook Community page for a topic you’re passionate about. Or record a Youtube video on interesting topics to get some content out there. You can easily showcase some of your skills without the need of previous experience. That way when you do go in for a Social Media Marketing interview, you’ve got something to boast about! 5. Follow some Social Media Blogs A great way to keep up with social media trends and news, and learn new skills too! Some of my personal favourites are Hubspot, and Buffer, but there are so many more out there! Here you can find the Top 10 Social Media Blogs for 2017 How easy is that! Just follow some of these tips on how to prepare yourself to become a social media expert, and you’re good to go!

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