CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Who knew two years ago corporations would be hiring for positions like "social media specialist" and "category manager of social media"?
More companies, large and small, are embracing services like Twitter and Facebook to get the word out about their products and services.
On Oct. 1, Duke Energy hired its first social media specialist. Lisa Hoffman has a background in marketing and public relations. She became fascinated with social media, entrenched herself in learning its uses and then landed the job at Duke.
"Duke Energy is really trying to get out there and find ways we can use these tools in new ways that are not as typical. Corporate America is just now dipping its toes in the water," said Hoffman.
Hoffman manages all the company's Twitter properties.
"We have Duke Energy Storm (Twitter feed) active during power outages and it also provides tips and readiness information. We also have Duke Energy News, which provides corporate information," Hoffman said.
The company also just launched the Twitter feed Energy in Balance, which discusses how to be more energy efficient.
A quick Internet search found similar jobs advertised at Walmart, Ford Motor Company and Starbucks.
So, how do you break into such a cutting edge field? Hoffman says you do your homework.
"I only know my own path, but get really good at it. Really get in there and understand it. And if you can get a client or two who would be willing to give you a shot, help them out. You can help them and get experience because using it for your own personal use is not like using it for business. You'll gain experience even if you do it for free or at a low rate," she said.
Bottom line, you need some business experience under your belt. And finally, use social media to find your social media job.
Websites like www.socialmediajobs.com catalog openings across the country.
One more piece of advice from Hoffman has to do with manners.
"You treat people online the way you treat them in person. Then they respond. Then they want to share," she said.
Want more? Are you on twitter? Follow Lisa Hoffman at @EnergyinBalance and Bobby Sisk at @BobbySisk. Follow @wcnc for local news updates, and check out @wcnc/reporters for a feed from WCNC staff members.
