Social media has become one of the most powerful tools in modern business, and with the average person spending nearly 7 hours a day online, the world of digital engagement is only getting bigger. For young professionals, it’s an exciting, fast-paced career path filled with creativity, opportunity and constant evolution. But with trends changing by the day, where do you begin?
If you are looking to break into social media or level up your digital skill set, here are the key steps to get started, and how Generation Next can help you grow as you do it.
Before you dive in, take a step back and think about where you want to be in five or ten years. Social media jobs can look very different depending on the direction you choose: content creation, strategy, paid advertising, analytics, community management and more.
Spend time exploring job descriptions and career paths, and try to understand the skills employers keep asking for. This will help guide your next steps – and keep your goals realistic and focused.
In 2025, digital learning is more accessible than ever. You can study in-person, online or in hybrid formats, and there are countless free or low-cost courses available from the likes of Google, Meta, HubSpot and FutureLearn.
Education doesn’t have to mean formal qualifications. What matters is that you stay curious, keep learning and build a solid understanding of marketing principles, branding, content strategy and analytics.
Generation Next can support you here too with webinars, skills sessions and mentoring, all designed to help young professionals build the digital confidence employers look for.
You don’t need a job title to gain experience. Offering to support a local business, charity or community group is a brilliant way to learn by doing.
Small businesses often need an extra pair of hands, especially during busy or financially challenging periods. Volunteering gives you real projects to showcase, helps you understand how social media works behind the scenes, and opens doors to new connections.
And once you gain confidence, freelancing or managing multiple accounts becomes a very realistic next step.
Your portfolio is your biggest asset. It shows potential employers what you can actually do, not just what you say you can do.
Try to include:
• Content examples – photos, videos, graphics, reels, stories
• Captions or copy you’ve written
• Metrics or results where possible
• Screenshots of campaigns or engagement
• A short explanation of the strategy behind each piece
You don’t need to be an expert editor either. Tools like Canva, CapCut, YouCut, Photoshop Express and even in-app editing features are perfect for getting started.
If you want to work in social media, your own presence matters. You don’t need thousands of followers, but you do need to demonstrate that you understand how to post, engage and adapt to trends.
Whether you share creative designs, blog-style posts, behind-the-scenes content or industry tips, use your platforms to build your voice and show your personality.
Building a career in social media can sometimes feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. As part of Generation Next, you can access:
• Networking events to meet other young professionals and potential collaborators
• Digital skills webinars to keep you ahead of fast-changing trends
• Mentoring opportunities that give you personalised guidance
• The Generation Next Awards, where you can showcase your achievements and celebrate your wins
It’s a community built to help you grow, learn and navigate your career with confidence.
The world of social media is fast-moving, creative and full of opportunity. You don’t need to know everything from the start. What matters is that you begin, stay curious and keep learning.
Take time to explore, experiment and shape a path that feels right for you. With the right mindset – and the right network behind you – your journey into social media can be as exciting as the industry itself.
If you would like to grow your skills and join a community of ambitious young professionals, Generation Next is here to help
