Web Content Manager
Job Description:Content managers are responsible for the information that goes on a company's website and/or other digital channels. They plan online strategies and create and manage online content.
Job Category:What you will do:
Your day-to-day duties might include:
- Taking a lead role in maintaining and developing the company’s online presence
- Planning online strategies
- Attending meetings to plan and develop site content, style and appearance
- Using web content management systems (CMS)
- Analysing website usage statistics
- Writing reports for senior managers, clients and partnership organisations
- Carrying out quality assurance checks on content
- Reporting technical problems to IT support staff
The type of content you might work on could include:
- E-commerce, like online shopping or banking
- Product advertising and retail catalogues
- Local, national and international news reports
- Social media output
- College and university websites
- Online public information and government services
In larger companies, you might manage an editorial team. You’ll have a more hands-on role in smaller organisations.
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
- knowledge of English language
As well as:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to use your initiative (drive)
- excellent verbal communication skills
- analytical thinking skills
- the ability to come up with new ways of doing things (creativity)
- the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
Entry Requirements:
There are no specific GCSE subjects that are universally required to become a Web Content Manager, as the educational and experience requirements can vary depending on the employer and the specific job. However, there are several subjects and skills that can be beneficial for a career in web content management. These include:
- English Language: Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for creating and editing web content.
- Information Technology (IT) or Computer Science: A solid understanding of computers and technology, including web development basics, can be advantageous.
- Media Studies or Journalism: These subjects can help you develop skills in creating engaging and relevant content for websites.
- Business Studies: Understanding basic business principles can be helpful, especially if you are managing content for a business or organization.
- Graphic Design or Art: Familiarity with design principles and software tools can be beneficial, as web content often includes images and multimedia elements.
- Marketing: Knowledge of digital marketing concepts can help you create content that aligns with the organization’s marketing goals.
- Maths: Basic mathematical skills are sometimes required for tasks like budget management or data analysis.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You may have an advantage if you do a degree in:
- journalism
- English
- digital media
- marketing
College
You could take a college course to help you to get a trainee manager’s job.
Courses include (in the UK):
- Level 3 Diploma in Creative Digital Media
- Level 4 Certificate in Professional Marketing
Apprenticeship
You could do a digital and technology solutions professional degree apprenticeship.
This will typically take around 3 years to complete.
Work
You could start as a digital content editor and work your way up. You’ll find it easier to get work if you have examples of your writing, such as articles, blogs or freelance content work.
You’ll also need to show experience of:
- content management systems (CMS)
- content and style guidelines
- search engine optimisation (SEO)
Working Hours and Environment:
You’ll usually work 35 to 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday. You may sometimes need to work overtime to meet deadlines.
Most of your work will be office-based at a computer. There may be some out-of-office duties, like attending meetings with clients or partners or interviewing people for features.
Career Path & Progression:
You could progress into information management, search engine optimisation (SEO), technical web development or wider information planning and policy roles.
You could also work on a freelance basis or set up your own business.