This in-demand skill can pay 6 figures a year and doesn't require a degree, making it a lucrative side hustle or full-time job.

Consider a career in social media marketing if you want to earn six figures while working from home.

The demand for social media marketing professionals is increasing rapidly in the U.S., as e-commerce adoption and post-pandemic consumer behavior shifts drive this growth, according to LinkedIn.

Effective use of platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and others is crucial for businesses to engage with customers and advertise their products or brands. As a result, companies are eager to hire individuals who can utilize these platforms effectively.

Remote, hybrid, and freelance social media marketing roles are experiencing a surge in demand on job boards FlexJobs and Freelancer.com.

The digital marketing industry, including social media marketing, is projected to expand by 8% annually, resulting in approximately 200,000 new job opportunities by 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

An in-demand job that doesn't require a degree

A bachelor's degree is not always necessary for a successful career in social media marketing.

According to Toni Frana, FlexJobs' lead career expert, the technical skills you possess are what truly matter in social media marketing roles, as they typically demand a deep knowledge of SEO, data analysis, and social media advertising.

According to Sebastián Siseles, vice president of international at Freelancer.com, hiring managers look for individuals who can create and edit videos, manage online communities, collaborate with influencers, and develop marketing campaigns to increase revenue.

Influencer marketing managers, social media marketing specialists, and content strategists are among the most sought-after roles in this field, according to FlexJobs and LinkedIn.

The salary range for a role depends on experience, with entry-level positions starting at approximately $50,000 and experienced strategists or managers earning over $120,000.

You can acquire certifications in specific digital marketing and e-commerce skills by watching tutorials on YouTube or taking online courses offered by LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, HubSpot, and Google.

Frana advises creating an online portfolio to display social media marketing projects and testimonials.

Frana asserts that this practical experience can be as beneficial as a college degree by showcasing a thorough comprehension of engagement tactics, content selection, and community administration.

Turning a social media marketing side hustle into a six-figure career

Freelance social media marketing jobs are typically remote, allowing professionals to work from anywhere and set their own schedules as long as they meet project deadlines, according to Fiverr, a freelancing marketplace.

Over the past six months, Fiverr has experienced a consistent increase in demand for social media marketing services. Specifically, searches for "social media content manager" increased by 493% between May and October. Additionally, there was a significant rise in searches for social media account setup, management, and content editing.

On Freelancer.com, social media marketing specialists can charge up to $125 per hour based on their experience.

Jennifer Shealey, a digital and social media marketing specialist in Vero Beach, Florida, offers her services on Fiverr for a fee ranging from $85 to $245.

Shealey began digital marketing as a part-time venture before transitioning into a full-time freelancer following her dismissal as a project administrator at a tile firm.

By designing websites, creating content for Instagram, and writing SEO copy for YouTube, the 46-year-old has built a successful freelance career through acquiring recurring clients and diversifying her offerings.

Since joining Fiverr in 2014, She has made over $600,000 in sales. In 2023, Shealey earned over $100,000 from freelancing on Fiverr.

The flexibility in scheduling and creative freedom is one of the best aspects of working in social media marketing, according to Shealey, in addition to the lucrative earning potential.

"Digital marketing is a great field to get into if you enjoy creativity, analytical work, and continuous learning. It's a job that can be done from home, a van, or on the road while traveling. The demand for digital marketers is high, and I can't keep up with it myself."

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