Some believe the word “outsource” has a negative cogitation. But, what it really boils down to is whether you have the time or money to complete a task. This is true in our personal and professional lives. We could all paint our houses, but a professional can probably do it better and more efficiently. Marketing is one task you may want to consider outsourcing.
No matter if you are a baker, landscaper, restaurant owner, or HVAC technician, you are more than likely working with a full plate. Your day-to-day operations, ordering supplies, paying bills, supervising employees, managing customers and selling your products and services can take up the majority of your time. Meanwhile, your competition is doing all that you do, but also posting on social media consistently, increasing their digital presence and social proof.
Where are they finding the time? They aren’t, they are stretched just as thin as you are. But they have outsourced their social media presence. They have invested money into their marketing. Google is a common household name, but the billion dollar company maintains its relevance by spending millions (billion?) of dollars on advertising. Investing money into your marketing is investing money into the success of your company.
If you are not already on social media, you are late. But anyone can catch up at any time. Social media is the race that never ends. It doesn’t matter when you start. BUT you need to be IN the race.
If you have a social media presence already, are you active? Do you post consistently? Do you post when your clients are on social media?
The idea is to determine and define your target audience. Once you have defined your audience, you can speak to them more clearly. When your customers have time. When your customers can be devoted to you.
“When will I have the time to figure all of this out?”
Social media managers research, define and target your clients efficiently and effectively. They have the time that you do not, to grab your clients and drive them to your business. Social media managers will creatively make sure your social media presence is consistent and active, giving you more time to focus on your business practices.
Outsourcing doesn’t mean you are out of the loop. Using a sub-contractor or freelance employee is like hiring a direct employee. It is completely acceptable, and suggested, that you interview potential contractors. Not all will be a good fit. Set boundaries and expectations. But, also understand the same may be expected from your contractor. They are not a direct employee and are probably managing multiple clients. Hold them to a standard of work but understand you should be working together. Most social media managers will involve you in the process and should understand your goals.
It is possible to manage your own social media presence. It just comes down to time or money. If you do decide to handle your marketing in-house, make sure, at the very least, your content and posting schedule are consistent. Maybe consider asking a social media manager for a training. Most are happy to help any business succeed.