Content Management Specialists

One of the best way to learn more about this career is to participate in an information interview with a CMS. Since duties for content management specialists vary by employer, it’s a good idea to talk to at least three CMSs about their careers. Perhaps your school counselor can help you set up interviews, or you can try to find interview candidates on LinkedIn, by asking friends and family if they know any CMSs, and by contacting professional associations for leads. Once you land an information interview, ask the following questions, and try to come up with your own, too.

• What made you want to become a content management specialist?
• What are the most important personal and professional traits for CMSs?
• What do you like and dislike about this career?
• How did you train for this field?
• Is certification important? If so, why?
• Any advice on breaking into the field?

Try to stay in touch with those whom you interview. They might be willing to serve as informal mentors, and may be able to direct you to job openings once you complete your training.

Other ways to learn more about this career and build related skills include learning how to use an open-source content management system, updating and organizing information at the Web site of your school or family business, or job shadowing a content management specialist.