Fresh Beginnings: What to Adopt and Leave Behind in the New Year for Social Media Managers

With the new year approaching everyone is being encouraged to create goals to better themselves. Most of the time these are personal goals, but setting professional goals is just as important. Here are 6 goals we recommend adopting as you go into 2024 for Social Media Managers.

Make time for yourself!

As social media managers, it feels like we are always on the clock. Social media doesn’t follow the typical 9-5 business schedule and it’s super easy to get burnt out. It’s important to set hours for yourself and stick to them. You don’t need to immediately respond to a client if they email you outside of your working hours. You’re no good to yourself or your client if you’re experiencing burnout. 

Emphasise communication. 

When working in social media so many of our interactions aren’t face-to-face which can cause some issues in the communication department. Good communication is the foundation of every great relationship, personal or professional. When signing on new clients be upfront about what you expect from them and what they can expect from you. Some clients will try to take advantage of you so you need to be upfront about the services you can provide for them and what you can’t. These conversations can be difficult, but they are important for the longevity of your business. The same thing goes for your team! If there’s a new development with a client your team needs to be made aware. It reflects poorly on your brand if you can’t deliver on your promises. Luckily these issues can be easily solved with effective communication on all parts. 

Stay ahead of your work.

In 2024 make a goal to stay on top of your work! If you have a shorter week and you know you have a big project coming up, start it sooner than later. In social media, it’s important to keep the client in the loop by allowing them to view and make edits on your content calendars. It saves both sides a lot of stress if these are done ahead of time so there is time to review and make edits. The content you put out will always look better when it isn’t rushed. 

Share your expertise.

Keep in mind you are the expert in your field and your clients hired you because of that. If you have an idea for a client don’t be scared to pitch and also don’t be scared to fight for your idea if need be. Clients don’t always stay up to date on trends so they may not understand a content idea you pitch. This doesn’t mean it’s a bad idea for the client it just means you have to stand your ground as the SMM and explain why it is a good idea. 

Build relationships.

In today's world, it’s all about who you know. It’s so important to build relationships and also keep up with them. Not all your clients are going to stay with you forever and that’s okay. When they are leaving make sure you are still treating them with respect and kindness. No matter if clients are old or current they are a walking talking ad for your business and you want to make sure they are giving you a good review. The relationships you build can make or break your business so make sure you are investing in them. 

Believe in yourself!

Social media management is hard. In some quarters you’ll be maxed out on clients and in others you’ll be actively seeking new ones. Don’t let this deter you! You will always be your biggest critic and it’s important to not take client changes personally. It doesn’t always work out and that’s okay. Social media will always be an up-and-down business and as long as you believe in yourself and your team you will have nothing to worry about. 

Let’s keep the conversation going! What goals are you bringing to your team in 2024?