How I’m Planning My Entire Year as a Social Media Manager in 2026

Planning your year as a social media manager is more than buying a new planner or setting random goals. It is about clarity, intention, and building the right systems. In today’s video, I am breaking down how to plan your best year yet as a social media manager in 2026, whether you are brand new or already working with clients. I will walk you through how to review your year properly, the exact goals you should be setting, the skills and training you need in 2026, and how to build a content and portfolio system that supports your growth. My aim is simple. I want you to enter 2026 with confidence and a clear roadmap. If you want deeper support, my Social Media Manager Mentorship is open. It is a paid mentorship with live classes, assignments, resources, and community support to help you grow the right way. You can join the waitlist or join directly if enrolment is open.Join my communities for daily updates and conversations:WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaJ5oRnJf05hI7IqJe3KTelegram Group: https://t.me/+EK_5YWDwSXViYjM8Mentorship: nestuge.com/tsmoacademySocial media manager Bible (it’s on pre-order): nestuge.com/dpdy0_nl8Instagram: @thesocialmediaogaTikTok: @thesocialmediaogaLinkedIn: Omobolaji AjibareLet’s make 2026 your best year yet.

Are gifted collaborations helping you grow, or quietly burning you out?In this episode of The Social Media Manager Bible Podcast, I’m pulling back the curtain on gifted collabs and talking honestly about what most creators won't say out loud.From unpaid influencer campaigns to usage rights traps, I'm breaking down:The six types of gifted collabs (and how they work)Red flags to avoid when brands offer “free” productsThe psychological pressure to say yes to exposureHow gifted campaigns exploit creators and social media managersWhy some brands are building full ad strategies on unpaid contentHow to protect your time, boundaries, and content as a creatorWhether you're a content creator, a social media manager, or part of a brand team, this episode is your no-fluff guide to navigating gifted partnerships with clarity and strategy.

Starting your first week as a social media manager can be exciting and overwhelming. Learn how to get acquainted with your brand or clients, perform content audits, set up essential tools, create or review social media strategies, and establish effective communication. Get ready to nail your first week and set a strong foundation for success in social media management. Join my email list: https://substack.com/@thesocialmediaoga?utm_source=profile-page CONNECT WITH ME Email address: [email protected] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesocialmediaoga/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesocialmediaoga?_t=8rWjzF0TMS8&_r=1 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omobolaji-ajibare

Struggling with late payments from clients? This video includes the essential tips to ensure you always get paid as a social media manager on time. From airtight contracts and deposits to automated invoicing and polite follow-ups, these strategies will protect your business and income. Before the due date script: Hi [Client Name], This is just a quick reminder that your invoice for [specific services] is due on [due date]. Please let me know if you need any further details or if there's anything else I can assist with. Best, [Your Name] After the due date script: Hi [Client Name], I hope you're well! I wanted to follow up regarding the invoice [invoice number] due on [due date]. I would appreciate it if you could process the payment as soon as possible. Please let me know if there's any invoice issue; I’d be happy to assist. Best, [Your Name] Social Media Management Rockstar ToolKit: https://mainstack.store/thesocialmediaoga/bagUAirnqlT_?currency=GBP

Are you having trouble asking clients for testimonials? In this video, I’ll show you how to confidently request reviews highlighting your skills and boosting your credibility. Learn the best timing, wording, and tools to make the process seamless and professional. I’ll also share tips on turning glowing testimonials into powerful marketing assets. Watch now and start building your reputation today! Social Media Management Rockstar ToolKit: https://mainstack.store/thesocialmediaoga/bagUAirnqlT_?currency=GBP CONNECT WITH ME Email address: [email protected] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesocialmediaoga/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesocialmediaoga?_t=8rX7cAWqDqq&_r=1 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omobolaji-ajibare

In this episode of the Social Media Manager Bible podcast, I explained the importance of setting a minimum three-month contract for clients. I delved into the benefits for social media managers and clients, emphasising that social media success takes time, requires consistent efforts, and builds trust and better client relationships. Social Media Management Rockstar ToolKit: https://mainstack.store/thesocialmediaoga/bagUAirnqlT_?currency=GBP

Want to land your dream clients? Your portfolio is the ultimate tool for showcasing your skills and attracting high-paying clients. In this video, I explain how to create a standout portfolio. From organising your best work to designing a polished presentation, you’ll learn everything you need to impress potential clients and grow your business. Watch now and build the portfolio that lands you jobs! Social Media Management Rockstar ToolKit: https://mainstack.store/thesocialmediaoga/bagUAirnqlT_?currency=GBP

Struggling to promote your social media management services? In this video, I’ll walk you through the best strategies to market yourself and attract high-paying clients. From optimizing your portfolio and using social proof to leveraging social media and networking, these tips will help you stand out in a competitive market. Watch now to learn how to showcase your skills and grow your client list! Social Media Management Rockstar ToolKit: https://mainstack.store/thesocialmediaoga/bagUAirnqlT_?currency=GBP

Are you struggling to impress potential clients during discovery calls? In this episode of the Social Media Manager Bible, I share the questions you must ask to understand your client’s needs, define their goals, and confidently close deals. Learn tips on discussing budgets and timelines and setting clear expectations. BUY Discovery call Script: https://mainstack.store/thesocialmediaoga/gYlVQLZosUUQ CONNECT WITH ME Email address: [email protected] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesocialmediaoga/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesocialmediaoga?_t=8rWdohnFiwi&_r=1 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omobolaji-ajibare

Is working for free ever a good idea? In this video, I explain when and why taking on unpaid social media projects might make sense. Learn how to identify opportunities that lead to real value, like experience, testimonials, or portfolio-building and avoid situations that exploit your skills. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned manager, these insights will help you make smart decisions about working for free! Social Media Management Rockstar ToolKit: https://mainstack.store/thesocialmediaoga/bagUAirnqlT_?currency=GBP Join my email list: https://substack.com/@thesocialmediaoga?utm_source=profile-page CONNECT WITH ME Email address: [email protected] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesocialmediaoga/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesocialmediaoga?_t=8rX7cAWqDqq&_r=1 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omobolaji-ajibare