How much is the average salary for a Social Media Manager in the UK, and how can businesses budget for this business-critical position?

Though there is still a way to go, brands, both big and small, are recognising the importance of a strong presence in the social sphere. 

This realisation has catapulted the demand for Social Media Managers. Once a casual side hustle, social media management has evolved into a highly sought-after provision and career path. 

As businesses compete to secure talent, understanding the scope of Social Media Manager salaries has become crucial for employers and aspiring professionals.

Social Media: "Just post a picture and sling a few hashtags on the end, right?'"

Wrong.

Social Media Management is now a critical component of any successful business strategy. It's not about posting selfies or sharing memes; it's a strategic role that requires a deep understanding of audience engagement, content creation, analytics, and brand identity.

This shift has transformed Social Media Management into a respected and lucrative career path.

When I started Branch Out, the demand was for website and email content, copywriting and blog writing. However, the need for strategic social media marketing rapidly became evident. Perhaps a result of lockdowns, locking us into the online scrolling world even more.

The rise of social media as a marketing and communication channel has led to a tide in demand for Social Media Managers. Businesses seek skilled professionals who navigate the ever-changing digital landscape and connect with audiences on a deeper level. 

This high demand has created a competitive job market, with companies competing to attract and retain top talent.

Several factors come into play when determining Social Media Manager salaries—experience, location, industry, skills, and certifications are crucial in the overall investment. 

For an aspiring Social Media Manager or a business looking to hire one, it is vital to consider the abovementioned factors and conduct thorough research to determine appropriate salary ranges in your region and industry. 

Additionally, don't hesitate to negotiate salaries based on your qualifications and the value you bring.

Understanding the numbers:

According to Sprout Social's latest report, the average salary for a Social Media Manager with 1-2 years of experience is approximately $50,147 (around £40,000). 

With 3-4 years of experience, it rises to $56,228 (about £45,000); for those with 5-6 years of experience, it reaches $62,275 (£50,000).

However, TotalJobs reports that the average salary for Social Media Manager jobs in the UK is £37,500. This suggests that the UK job market may still be catching up in understanding the importance and value of hiring one.

Despite these variations, the importance of SM Managers should not be underestimated. Findings from the UK and Ireland edition of the Sprout Social Index™ reveal that hiring social media talent is the biggest challenge facing European social media teams today. 

Social trends shape everything from consumer buying habits to brand reputation. Social media managers aren't a "nice-to-have." They're business-critical.

Branch Out Marketing offers a full-time Social Media Manager's results for more than half the salary, providing businesses with an opportunity to save money while benefiting from the expertise of a certified social media and content marketing professional.

Social media managers are pivotal in raising brand awareness, driving engagement, and ultimately contributing to a company's success in the digital age.

Will you consider Social Media as a key component in your 2024 marketing strategy? If you're ready…