The community manager profession
Here is a great job that came straight out of the evolution of the web! The community manager, or CM as they call themselves, is responsible for creating and nurturing a community of internet users around a shared interest. They are seen as the brand's ambassador, so they must get their company's products talked about online. No, this is not a fake consumer; they speak on behalf of their company!
Companies have clearly understood the importance of having a website, and consumers are delighted. They can finally let brands know when something displeases them. This is where the CM becomes essential: they are there to respond to reviews, questions and anything else. The CM acts as a spokesperson.
Their role is also to monitor the internet, whether it concerns their competitors or their e-reputation. The CM is therefore a moderator, but they are also a content creator, in order to humanise the company and to provide news. They tend to go on to become a Social Media Manager, Content Manager, etc. The CM is generally on the lookout for technology trends and web trends. They are always searching for a tool that will strengthen their relationship with their community.
The essential qualities of a Community Manager:
- Communication skills: the Community Manager is the face of the brand, so their communication must be impeccable
- Commitment & availability: the CM's days never end; they must be able to respond to a bad buzz or an event
- Organisation: the CM's company is often present on several social networks, and if the CM works in an agency they will have to manage several accounts. Organisation is essential, otherwise they will quickly be overwhelmed.
- Community engagement: the CM must not only talk about their brand; they must be able to engage consumers with its values
- Creative & funny: in order to always be able to create unique content
- Independence
- Curiosity
- Etc…
The Community Manager profession also has its constraints.
You have to be responsive and show diplomacy and a great deal of skill.
It is important to know that the person in this role is easily in an ejector seat.