Freelance vs. In-House Social Media Manager: Which Career Path Is Right for You?
Social media management isn’t just about posting eye-catching content—it’s about crafting strategies, building communities, and tracking analytics to drive real results. But if you're pursuing a career in this field, you might be wondering: should you work as a freelance social media manager or take an in-house role? Each path has its own perks and challenges, and the best choice depends on your skills, lifestyle, and career goals.
Let’s break it down so you can decide which career path fits you best.
Freelance Social Media Manager
The Life of a Freelance Social Media Manager
Flexibility and Freedom
Freelancing means being your own boss—you decide when, where, and how you work. Whether you're a night owl who does their best work at 2 AM or a digital nomad traveling the world, freelancing gives you the flexibility to set your own schedule.
Variety of Clients and Industries
One of the biggest perks of freelancing is working with multiple clients across different industries. One day, you might be creating content for a beauty brand, and the next, you’re running ads for a tech startup. This variety keeps things fresh and helps you build a diverse portfolio.
Unlimited Earning Potential (But Irregular Income)
Freelancers set their own rates, meaning your income potential isn’t capped by a salary. However, it also comes with financial unpredictability—some months might be lucrative, while others could be slow. Managing finances and consistently finding new clients are crucial skills for a successful freelance career.
Self-Sufficiency Is Key
Unlike in-house roles, freelancers don’t have a team to rely on. You’ll be handling everything—strategy, content creation, scheduling, reporting, and client communication. If you enjoy wearing multiple hats, this could be exciting. If you prefer collaboration, freelancing might feel isolating.
In-House Social Media Manager
The Life of an In-House Social Media Manager
Stable Income and Job Security
Working in-house means receiving a consistent paycheck, health benefits, and job stability. If financial security is important to you, an in-house role might be the safer bet.
Deeper Brand Involvement
Unlike freelancers who juggle multiple brands, in-house social media managers focus on one company’s long-term strategy. This allows for deeper storytelling, audience engagement, and brand loyalty development.
Collaboration and Career Growth
Being part of a team means working alongside designers, copywriters, and marketing strategists. This collaboration fosters creativity and opens doors for professional growth, including promotions and specialized training.
Set Work Hours (With Less Flexibility)
An in-house job means a structured work schedule. While this provides work-life balance, it also means less flexibility—no midday beach breaks unless it’s PTO-approved.
Which Path Should You Choose?
If you thrive on flexibility, enjoy variety, and are comfortable with the hustle of finding clients, freelancing could be the perfect fit. However, if you prefer stability, career growth opportunities, and being part of a team, an in-house role might be the way to go.
No matter which path you choose, your resume is the key to landing the right opportunities. That’s why we’ve created a Social Media Manager Resume Template to help you showcase your expertise, whether you're pitching clients or applying for in-house roles.