What Is a Web Content Manager?
A web content manager is in charge of migrating online content and code to content management systems (CMS), developing templates and blueprints and implementing long-range web strategies. Web content managers work closely with design teams and senior management to develop templates, maintain site standards and optimize CMS and web server configurations.
Web content managers use their technical architecture and development skills to develop new web sites and make changes to open systems and web applications. Their goal is to improve the reliability, maintainability, scalability and performance of websites. Most web content managers also write, edit and proofread web content before it is promoted online.
Web content managers can use their knowledge and skills in a number of fields, including business, marketing, computer software, education, healthcare and just about any organization that publishes online content. Web content managers typically work in comfortable office settings and maintain normal business hours.
How to Become a Web Content Manager
In order to become a web content manager, you’ll need to meet certain educational and technical requirements before entering the field. For starters, most web content managers have their bachelor’s degree, typically in computer science, web design, journalism, visual communications, electronic media and communications, or another related subject. Some employers will hire applicants who have multiple years of experience writing, editing and managing web content for a website.
Prospective web content managers need to have excellent computer, writing and editing skills first and foremost. They also need to have experience in web publishing and publications production processes for web-based CMS. They should be proficient in various web programs, databases and editing software and need to be familiar using HTML, Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), Microsoft Office and Adobe Photoshop. In addition to their technical writing, editing and development skills, web content managers also need to exhibit strong communication skills and be quick problem solvers.
Web Content Manager Career Outlook & Salary
Web content managers should continue to experience a positive career outlook and salary in the coming years. This occupation may experience an increase in employment and job opportunities due to the fact that more companies are expanding their web presence. They’ll need the expertise of web content managers to write, edit, publish and maintain all web content, as well as strategize and optimize CMS and web server configurations and components.
A growing demand for web content managers’ technical skills will also increase the level of competition within the job market. In order to stay competitive, prospective and current web content managers should keep their job skills up to date and stay ahead of all industry trends and technology that will cater to today’s businesses. In addition to a promising career outlook, web content managers also receive excellent salaries. According to PayScale.com, web content managers made an annual salary range of $35,000 to $64,000 in 2010.
