Hiring a Social Media Manager - What to Expect
Hiring a Social Media Manager can seem like a big step to some companies, this is especially true if you're new to social media or are unsure what value they can add to your business.
Social media is not something you can just dip in and out of, it takes time to build an audience, time to put together content and if you pick the right social media manager they will know from experience what works, and importantly what doesn't work. When speaking to smaller businesses about social media they mention that they use social media but only once a month when they suddenly remember to post something. The other common response is that they don't see the point of social media, it's either dying out or people don't use it for shopping or business matters.
These statements or actions are completely false, for a small business, whether that's a retail shop, hairdressers, gym or an Etsy seller social media is a driving force to reach new customers. If you have a business especially one that operates online then how will people know you exist? Social media is also free, think of it as a free way to advertise, of course, you can pay to advertise on there but to start it's free.
A social media manager can explain the benefits of social media and depending on what your business is will depend on what platforms you should use and post on. If you've never worked with a social media manager before then make sure you do your research and compare a few different people. Going for the cheapest isn't the way forward, it's not a case of all options are the same.
Key Questions to ask your potential social media manager
Being prepared is key when you first make contact, no doubt you will of heard about the different channels and have a little knowledge of how each one varies even if you don't actually use it yourself. I've put together a couple of basic questions that need asking before you sign up.
Which platforms will we be using?
This really is about what your business is about, it's up to your and the manager to come up with a plan but have a look at a few competitors and see which platforms they operate on, not just have accounts but post on a regular basis. It shouldn't be a case of all of them, it might work but it might also mean with time restrictions the full effort isn't being put into valuable content.
What sort of schedule will we be working to?
It's not a simple answer but as a minimum, you should be looking at 3 times a week. In the early days, it pays to not be too strict so that you can see what times are working. Think about what times you look at your phone, it'd bet that it's at common times, breakfast, lunchtime and after 7 pm, can you work this into your scheduling times?
Do you need to provide content?
If you have a website that is updated or a blog then is the social media manager happy to use this? Or would they like you to provide content for them? A good way to start is by sitting down with them and planning a couple of months at a time. Not every last detail but key dates, sale dates or subjects you'd like covering. This gives them something to work with. If you say you will provide content then make sure you do, otherwise, they'll still invoice you and not actually be posting.
Who'll be interacting with people?
It's important to set this early, as comments and possible messages appear on social media you'll need to know who'll be responding. If you decide to keep doing this yourself then keep it light, don't take offence and you don't need to respond to every comment especially negative ones. If you're unsure talk it over together.
Social Media Customer Service Stats
There are lots of questions you should both be asking but these will be a good starting point. Ask to see examples of the work they've created, have they experience in your field, make sure you both sing off the same sheet.
If you have any questions about social media management then please contact me here.
