There is no way to properly run a startup these days without a social media presence. It is a critical component of a business and offers a number of benefits that must be utilized to stand out and succeed. Therefore, hiring a social media manager is an obvious choice, especially if you want to get the most out of your time and money.
What Is a Social Media Manager?
Social media managers are people paid to manage an organization’s social media presence. The goal of a social media manager is to build and maintain that presence on social media platforms and to engage with the organization’s audience in a way that builds trust and loyalty. Some of the things they do include:
- Developing and implementing social media strategies
- Creating and curating content
- Monitoring social media channels
- Engaging with followers
- Analyzing performance metrics
Additionally, social media managers monitor and utilize current trends and best practices to ensure that the organization is using social media in the most effective way possible. Now, it is time to look at some of the reasons hiring a social media manager is a good idea for any startup looking to up its social media presence.
Expertise
Many people see social media as nothing more than some quick posts to get content out there. However, there is a lot of specialized knowledge and experience that goes into properly managing social media accounts. That includes knowing how to create engaging content and develop effective strategies.
Those platforms are also constantly evolving, and only a dedicated social media manager can stay up to date on the latest trends. They can also provide insights on what types of content work best on different platforms and how to optimize content for each platform.
Time
Managing social media accounts can be time-consuming, and time is especially valuable for startups and small businesses. Social media managers handle the day-to-day task of managing your social accounts, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your business.
Consistency
One of the most important parts of running a social media account and maintaining a solid presence is consistency. However, it is not always easy when you are not dedicated and focused, which makes a social media manager a great choice. They can ensure that there is consistent posting and that it all remains true to your brand’s image and values.
In turn, consistent posts and messaging can help you build brand recognition and awareness. It also ensures that your audience has a clear understanding of what your brand represents.
Engagement
Social media is a great place to promote products and services, but it is also where startups can engage with customers, build relationships, and receive feedback. But to properly do that, it is best to have someone who will take the time to respond promptly to inquiries and comments and engage the audience. Only then can a true community be built.
Analytics
Analytics are key for any business, and startups are no exception. Therefore, having someone who knows the ins and outs of social media analytics is important. That is where a social media manager comes in handy, making it easy to gather insights from analytics, such as:
- Engagement rates
- Reach
- Impressions
Social media managers are then able to optimize social media strategies and ensure they are achieving a company’s business goals.
Crisis Management
Just like engagement, managing a crisis requires prompt responses. Social media managers are available to react when needed, handling things like negative comments and reviews. They can respond to negative feedback in a professional and timely manner, making sure a brand’s reputation is protected.
Influencer Outreach
Influencer marketing is one of the most effective digital marketing tools in any company’s repertoire, and social media managers are exactly who should be responsible for influencer outreach. They can help identify relevant influencers in an industry and develop partnerships that can help increase a brand’s reach and visibility.
Cost-Effective Marketing
It is not just influencer marketing that can be effective, though. Social media advertising is also a great way to effectively reach a large audience without paying an excessive amount. Social media managers know how to do that, and they can customize marketing and campaigns for different platforms.
Spencer Hulse is a News Desk Editor at Grit Daily. He covers breaking news on startups, affiliate, viral, and marketing news.