Are you interested in working in the communications field?
Do you have experience managing communications for an organization?
The Communications Manager role might be the perfect fit for you!
To learn more about the Communications Manager role, read on.
- Communications Manager: The Basics
- Work Opportunities in the Communications Manager Industry
- What It’s Like to be a Communications Manager
- Communications Manager Salary & Income
- Overview of the Communications Manager Industry
- Requirements, Skills and Education Required for Communications Managers
- Communications Manager Education & Schooling
- Become a Communications Manager
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Wrapping Up
Communications Manager: The Basics
So, what is a communications manager?
And what does a communications manager do?
Let’s find out.
What is a Communications Manager?
A communications manager is a professional who oversees all aspects of communication.
What is a Communications Manager Called?
A communications manager is also called a Chief Communications Officer (COO).
What Does a Communications Manager Do?
Communications managers work with various teams within an organization.
These include marketing, public relations, and sales to ensure everyone is on the same page.
And that the organization’s message is consistent.
They develop and install strategies to ensure that the organization’s message is effective.
Work Opportunities in the Communications Manager Industry
As a communications manager, there are many opportunities to work in various industries.
Communications Manager Job Description
A communications manager is responsible for developing and overseeing communication strategies.
This may include managing media relations, writing and editing content or marketing materials.
A communications manager may create and implement social media campaigns or plan events.
Top Communications Manager Jobs and Careers
Some of the most popular career paths taken by communications managers include:
- Public relations
- Marketing
- Advertising
Where Can a Communications Manager Work?
Communications managers come from various settings, including:
- Advertising agencies
- Corporate communications departments
- Government organizations
- Nonprofit
What It’s Like to be a Communications Manager
If you are the kind of person who is interested in the latest news and enjoys talking to people, then a career in communications might be for you.
Is Being a Communications Manager Hard?
No, being a communications manager is not hard.
It can be challenging at times, but it is generally a fairly easy job.
Is a Communications Manager’s Job Stressful?
This role has its fair share of stress, especially when deadlines loom and projects need completed quickly.
Common Communications Manager Work Day
The communications manager is responsible for the daily operations of the communications department.
They oversee the creation and distribution of all internal and external communications.
The communications manager typically works with other members of the senior management team.
They work together to develop and implement communication strategies.
Communications Manager Tasks & Duties
Some of the daily tasks and duties include:
- Create and implement communication plans that align with the company’s business goals.
- Develop messaging for various channels.
- Manage the content calendar and creation process for all communications materials.
- Write, edit, and proofread content for a variety of channels.
- Work with designers to develop creative materials that adhere to brand guidelines.
- Manage the budget for the communications department.
- Coordinate with other departments to ensure that communication strategies align.
- Analyze data.
Communications Manager Work Hours & Schedule
The Communications Manager typically works full-time during regular business hours.
But the job may occasionally require working evenings and weekends to attend events or meet deadlines.
Communications Manager Dress Code
When working as a Communications Manager, it is important to maintain a professional appearance.
Depending on the company, the dress code may be business casual or business formal.
Does This Career Field Embrace Work/Life Balance?
The Communications Manager field is one that generally embraces work/life balance.
This job often requires working with others in different time zones.
So many Communications Managers can set their own schedules.
Communications Manager Salary & Income
You need to know what kind of income you can expect.
So read below for the details.
Do Communications Managers Make Good Money?
Yes, Communications Managers make good money.
How Much Do Communications Managers Make?
The average salary for a Communications Manager is $116k annually.
Overview of the Communications Manager Industry
Now that you understand what a communications manager does and the skills they need to succeed, let’s take a closer look at the industry itself.
Communications Manager Field: Career Progression
You will need excellent writing, editing, and communication skills to get started.
You will also need to be proficient in using social media platforms and understand how to use them for marketing purposes.
Many communications managers have a background in journalism, public relations, or marketing.
But it is not necessary to have a specific degree to be successful in this role.
Is a Communications Manager a Good Career?
Yes, a communications manager is an excellent career.
It pays well and offers great opportunities for career progression.
Communications Manager Job Outlook
The job outlook for communications managers is positive.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in this field will grow by 14 percent from 2020 to 2030.
Demand for Communications Managers
Demand is expected to be strong in the coming years.
Communications Manager Facts
COOs usually have bachelor’s degrees in business administration or communications.
The median annual wage for communications managers is around $116k.
Employment of communications managers is projected to grow 14 percent from 2020 to 2030.
Jobs Related to Communications Manager
Some of the closest related jobs include:
- Broadcast Assistant
- Charity Spokesperson
- Speech Writer
Requirements, Skills and Education Required for Communications Managers
It’s important to know the requirements for the job.
We discuss this below.
Who Should Consider a Communications Manager Career Path?
Do you love to communicate and possess strong writing and editing skills?
Are you creative and have an interest in the latest technology and social media trends?
You may want to consider a career as a communications manager.
Who Should NOT Consider a Communications Manager Career Path?
If you do not enjoy or appreciate the ever-changing landscape of technology, this might not be the career for you.
Is It Hard to Become a Communications Manager?
Not always.
But it is demanding at times.
Communications managers must be able to juggle many projects, often with tight deadlines.
They need to have exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
What Do I Need to Become a Communications Manager?
Most communications managers have at least a bachelor’s degree.
Many organizations prefer to hire candidates with a master’s degree in business administration (MBA).
Requirements for Becoming a Communications Manager
You will need to have a minimum of five years’ experience working in corporate communications, public relations, or a similar field.
Additionally, most employers will require you to have a bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, or a similar field.
What Skills Does a Communications Manager Need?
In order to be successful in this role, a communications manager needs to have certain skills and qualities.
These include:
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Excellent organizational skills
- The ability to multitask and prioritize
- The ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
- The ability to think creatively
- The ability to use various computer programs
- The ability to work alone and in a group environment
- A bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, marketing
What Education Does a Communications Manager Need?
To pursue a career, one will need a bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, or other field.
Many employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or a master’s degree in communication.
Coursework in marketing, advertising, and business is also beneficial.
Additionally, many communication managers have experience working in a other field.
Can You Become a Communications Manager Without a Degree?
Although a degree is not always required, most employers prefer it.
What Experience Does a Communications Manager Need?
Communications managers must have several years of experience in communications or public relations.
Communications Manager Education & Schooling
Education is important for communications managers.
They should have at least a bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations or a similar field.
Many employers prefer to hire those with master’s degrees.
What Is Taught in a Communications Manager Course?
A regular course would include classes in public relations, advertising, journalism and business.
Many programs offer internships to give students practical experience.
How Long Does a Communications Manager Course Take?
Most courses take two years to complete.
But some programs may offer accelerated options that allow students to complete their studies in as little as one year.
Communications Manager Education Options and Degree Programs
Bachelor’s Degree
A Bachelor’s degree in Communications is the minimum requirement.
You will learn basic concepts, theories and skills related to communication studies.
Coursework usually includes mass communication, interpersonal communication, public relations and advertising.
Master’s Degree
A Master’s degree in Communications can give you an advantage when competing for Communications Manager jobs.
In addition to communications theory and skills, you will learn research methods and statistics.
You may also have the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of communications, such as public relations.
Schools for Communications Managers
Popular schools include:
- Fashion Institute of Technology
- University of Minnesota – Twin Cities
- University of Vermont
Become a Communications Manager
You’re ready to become a communications manager.
Now what?
Read on to find out.
Steps to Become a Communications Manager
The first step is to learn about the role of a communications manager.
To become a communications manager, you will need to have a bachelor’s degree in communication or another field.
You will also need to have experience working in the field of communication.
Additionally, you will need to have strong writing and interpersonal skills.
With these, you will be well on your way to becoming a communications manager.
Current Career Job Openings
Companies like Fluke, Fanatics, and Grenentech have openings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I be a better Communications Manager?
Good communication managers are always looking for ways to improve their skills.
They know that being a successful communicator requires continual learning and practice.
Here are some ways you can become a better communications manager:
- Read books and articles on effective communication.
- Attend workshops and seminars on communication skills.
- Practice your communication skills in everyday situations.
- Get feedback from others on your communication style and effectiveness.
- Be open to new ideas and approaches to communication.
Wrapping Up
In today’s business world, the need for effective communication is more important than ever before.
As a communications manager, you will play a vital role in conveying information.
It’s your job to ensure everyone is on the same page.
If you are interested in pursuing this exciting career, be sure to go through the steps provided here.
If you remain committed, you’ll be a successful communications manager in no time at all!