Is Age a Barrier for Becoming a Community Manager or Social Media Manager?

Definitely not! At the young age of 22, I began my journey as a community manager for Thought Labs, quickly rising to become the Head of Communities. By the time I was 25, I had not only managed large social media communities but also consulted with significant corporations like HP Computers on their social media strategies. Additionally, I have had my work featured on prominent platforms such as Social Media Today and even been recognized as an Editor's Choice on the site.

My career in community management started even earlier. When I was just 20 years old, I received a unique opportunity to travel to Prague with AVG Technologies, my involvement with their Facebook community being the key reason behind this experience. This journey began when I started an IT services company at the age of 15, which eventually expanded to serve multiple local businesses and secure government contracts for the 2010 US Census.

Breaking Through Age Barriers

It’s crucial to understand that age should not be an obstacle to achieving your goals. Passion and a commitment to putting in the hard work are the true driving factors. Whether you are passionate about community building, social media marketing, or both, these skills are within reach. You just need to be willing to invest the time and energy necessary to master them.

Resources for Learning

The information you need to become a successful community manager or social media manager is readily available. There are countless books, online courses, and even podcasts dedicated to these topics. You can listen to informative podcasts on the go, whether you're driving, working out, or falling asleep at night. The key is consistency and dedication.

Advice for New Community Managers

If you've recently been hired to manage social media and have no prior experience, here are some valuable tips to get you started:

Build a Strong Foundation

Understand the Goals: Know the objectives of the social media strategy. What are the main goals of the community or brand you are managing? Engage with Your Audience: Actively listen to and engage with your followers. This means responding to comments, asking questions, and creating content that resonates with your audience. Analytics and Insights: Use tools like Google Analytics and social media analytics to track your performance. Analyze what works and what doesn't to adapt and improve your strategy. Stay Updated: Social media is constantly evolving. Keep up with the latest trends and best practices by following industry leaders and subscribing to relevant newsletters and blogs.

Networking and Collaboration

Connect with other professionals in the field. Attend industry conferences, join online communities, and collaborate with other managers and marketers. Strong connections can open up new opportunities and provide valuable insights.

Success as a community manager or social media manager is not just about the tools and techniques you have at your disposal. It's about your ability to connect with people and build meaningful relationships. Passion and hard work are the linchpins that will keep you moving forward, regardless of your age.

So, if you’re eager to break into the world of community management or social media, remember that age is merely a number. With the right mindset and a commitment to learning, you can achieve your goals and excel in these rewarding roles.