Hey Erica, care to share a little bit about yourself?
Hi there! I'm Erica, the climbing foodie. I've spent the majority of my professional career working with social media content creators (aka influencers). I started out doing branded content with influencers and recently transitioned into my current role at Jellysmack as a Sr. Creator Success Manager. When I'm not working, you'll find me cooking something up in the kitchen or rock climbing out in the desert.
Can you tell us what you do as a Creator Success Manager for those who are unfamiliar?
At Jellysmack, we help content creators grow their presence and monetize their content across the various social platforms. As a Success Manager for the creator program, my team and I serve as the day to day touch point for our creators and manage the relationships to ensure a successful partnership. We also act as the liaison between the creators and the internal stakeholders that work on the creator's content.
How did you decide to pursue your specific career?
The idea of a social media influencer was still a very new concept when I was hunting for a job in 2014, so it wasn't something I was specifically pursuing. All I knew was that I wanted to do something in social media marketing and was looking to get my foot in the door in the industry. It was very fortuitous that I was able to jump right into this as an account manager at an influencer marketing agency. The industry has skyrocketed since then and it's been an exciting space to be in!
What made you interested in your field? What do you like about it?
I discovered the world of content creators when I first started watching makeup/beauty gurus on YouTube in college (shout out to Ingrid Nilsen aka Miss Glamorazzi for being the first that I followed!). I would spent countless hours of my free time on YouTube, learning new makeup techniques and testing new products. I think my Sephora order history can attest to my obsession with makeup! 😂
Since then, the industry has become a passion for me because I've been able to witness firsthand the positive impact that content creators have had just in the last decade or so. What's awesome is that if you're passionate about something and want to share your expertise and experiences, there are no barriers to entry for creating and sharing content. Also, the accessibility of knowledge through social media content has made it extremely convenient to learn new skills or get ideas and inspiration for whatever you're excited about.
Any advice on how to stand out and get hired for those starting off?
It's easy to check all the boxes on paper, but I think it's your personality and passion for what you do that will make you a more memorable candidate. Before an interview, make sure you do thorough research on the role/company you are applying for and bring a story or anecdote that links your past and experiences to the role that you are pursuing.
What are 3 character traits that would make someone excel in your field?
1) Adaptability - Be willing and able to roll with the punches.
2) Solutions Oriented - When you approach your colleagues/managers with an issue, make it a habit to come with a solution as well, even if you think it's completely wrong. It's something that I still challenge myself to do every day because it forces me to think outside the box in tough situations and also exercises my problem solving abilities.
3) Creativity - Bring your fresh ideas and perspectives to the table! Oftentimes, there's more than one way to do things so it's okay to question the status quo or find ways to make process more efficient.
What fuels you to continue to do what you do?
Knowing that there is always something more out there...knowledge, experiences, connections, etc.
Most difficult thing about your job?
Because the social media industry is constantly growing, we need to have an innovative mindset in order to adapt to these changes. It definitely keeps us on our toes!
What would you like to say to your younger self?
Don't put up with BS 😊
Best advice you've received/heard?
"It's not about who you know, but who knows you."
Any last thoughts, advice, or recommendations for someone who wants to learn more about Creator Success Management?
A great way to stay up to date in the industry is to subscribe to industry newsletters. Here are a couple of my favorites:
