How to become A Social and Community Service Manager

• Social Work Manager
• Community Service Manager

What do Social and Community Service Managers do?

A Social and Community Service Manager would typically need to:

• Coordinate and supervise social service programs and community organisations; manage the staff who provide social services to the public
• Work with community members and other stakeholders to identify necessary programs and services; meet with community members and funding providers to discuss their programs
• Oversee administrative aspects of the programs to meet the objectives of the stakeholders; plan and manage outreach activities for increased awareness of programs
• Analyse data to determine the effectiveness of programs; suggest and implement improvement to programs and services
• Write proposals for social services funding; report statistical evaluation of program’s impact on the target audience to administrators or funders
• Recruit, hire, and train new staff members; carry out the duties of subordinates if necessary; schedule and facilitate staff meetings; oversee office budget and expenditure
• Attend management meetings to coordinate policy decisions; act as a liaison between senior management and staff
• Act as a primary point of contact between the public and the local office in case of grievances; demonstrate practical knowledge of the purpose and program goals of their organisation

Social and Community Service Managers work in various settings, including offices, clinics, hospitals, and shelters. Travel may be necessary to meet community members and potential donors.

The majority of Social and Community Service Managers work full time. They may work extended hours to meet deadlines or when preparing new programs.

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Social and Community Service Managers can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media and inquiring at staffing agencies.

Social and Community Service Managers are generally employed by:

• Non-Profit Organisations
• Private For-Profit Social Service Companies
• Government Agencies
• Individual & Family Services
• Nursing & Residential Care Facilities
• Community & Vocational Rehabilitation Services
• Community Outreach & Social Work Organisations
  

Professional associations and organisations such as the Network for Social Work Management are a crucial resource for Social and Community Service Managers interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. 

Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Responsibility for others health and safety;  pressure to ensure the programs bring positive results within a short time 
• Dealing with systems that do not help all the frightened, fragile or sick people in need is a massive source of frustration and even burn-out
• The need to regularly deal with distracting or uncomfortable sounds and noise levels
• Exposure to diseases or infections

Volunteer with social organisations to learn how to showcase policies for social change while connecting with others.

Extensive work experience as a social worker, substance abuse counselor or a similar role providing direct service should help you obtain an entry-level position as a Social and Community Service Manager. 

As in any career, reading as much as possible about the profession, talking with a high school coun­selor, and interviewing those working in social and community service are other important ways to explore your interest.

Most candidates have a bachelor’s degree in psychology, sociology, social work, counselling, communications, public health, urban studies, public administration, business administration or non-profit administration.

Employers show increased preference for Social and Community Service Managers with a master’s in social work, business administration or psychology.

Certification demonstrates a Social and Community Service Manager’s competence in a skill set, typically through work experience, training, and passing an examination.

Certification from an objective and reputed organisation in community psychology can help you stand out in a competitive job market, carry a significant salary premium of up to 18 per cent, and increase your chances of advancement.

Successful certification programs protect public welfare by incorporating a Code of Ethics.

Performance, experience, and acquisition of professional qualifications drive career progression. Social and Community Service Managers who have proven themselves on the job may be able to rise to a Child Welfare Director, a Community Service Manager, a Family Service Center Director, or a Youth Program Director.

Candidates with significant work experience of at least four to six years in related professions have the best job prospects.

Most employers offer on-the-job training lasting from six months to a year. You should consider continuing professional development (CPD) to help you identify skills gaps and build them through work-based learning, formal education, or self-directed learning.

It allows you to upskill continually, regardless of your age, job, or level of knowledge. You will then be able to qualify for the specific positions you are most interested in. A PhD in a field like palliative care may prove advantageous in optimal career advancement.

Large vs Small Organisations

You may report to the upper management and be responsible for setting up and implementing only one program in a large organisation.

In a small organisation, you will have many roles to play. You will represent the organisation, oversee and implement programs, manage budgets and help raise funds.

Impact on Society

Social and Community Service Managers ensure quality services to their target community and society at large. They serve individuals who may otherwise fall through the cracks and families who may not otherwise receive the benefits or services they are entitled to.

Sensitive to Community Needs

Depending on the organisation, community service managers may focus on working with a particular demographic, such as children, homeless people, older adults, immigrants, ex-offenders, or veterans. They may help people with specific issues, such as substance abuse, mental health needs, chronic hunger, and long-term employment.

How much does a Social and Community Service Manager make?

On average, a Social and Community Service Manager makes US $69,600 or UK £30,092.

The salary of a Social and Community Service Manager depends on the number of employees directly reporting to them, and not the size of the community they serve.

When you have the right skills and abilities to improve the lives of the vulnerable and make a real difference in their lives, you will find a career as a Social and Community Service Manager truly rewarding.

“Passion for the job is non-negotiable.  Professional doors will organically open if you've got the commitment to being an advocate and a leader in your institution and your community.” Otis-Green