subject: Is A Social Media Consultant Of Importance To Companies? [print this page] Social media is a huge buzz word at this timeSocial media is a huge buzz word at this time. It is actually getting tossed in all places and companies usually are struggling to get professionals who can assist them in this new field. But the big question is do you really need to hire a social media consultant?
The basic reply to this query is yes; companies big or small should really retain the services of an expert who could come up with a workable technique for social media engagement. In a world which is increasingly becoming much more social, having a dynamic reputation in a variety of social networks is important.
In other words, your company's sustained results can be established by its ability to make use of different social resources for enhancing customer support, marketing, and sales. Through the help of a competent specialist, this start up business task can be made easier and much more efficient.
How to get the Right Expert
The sad truth these days is that so-called social media experts are actually a dime a dozen. In every single corner of the Internet, you can find 'consultants' who will promise pretty much everything for your company.
As a entrepreneur, you have to discern the sneak oil salesmen from the real specialists. So here are the most vital things which you need to look for when choosing a social media consultant.
1. Get a Consultant with Corporate Experience
An advisor cannot declare knowledge of social online media if he or she does not have corporate expertise. This is very important for the reason that online methods cannot be segregated from the general corporate goals and interests. Your consultant therefore needs to have an intimate information about how businesses work. So make sure to seek out these qualities:
a. At least 5 years marketing experience in a corporate environment.
b. Portfolio of previous engagement (corporate accounts).
c. Verifiable references.
d. Proven brand in several online communities (have the consultant's blog/website URLs, Twitter handle, LinkedIn profile, Google+ profile, and Facebook page).
2. Know the Strategies of Your Consultant
Many so-called professionals will explain that their best goal is to enhance your company's social network direct exposure. But you need to take note that social networking is just a small aspect of social media. A real advisor will recommend strategies that happen to be in line with your company's goal. He must provide you with a blueprint regarding how to make use of the subsequent tools:
a. Blogging
b. Social networking
c. Social bookmarking
d. Web 2.0 engagement
e. Online forum branding
f. Broad search/Local search optimization
Furthermore, your consultant should propose plans on the way you use these tools to boost customer service, online marketing, and sales generation.
3. Have a Consultant Who Has a System for Measuring Success
Jumpstarting a social media campaign is the easy part. The more difficult aspect is measuring its success. You need to refrain from a consultant who cannot provide efficient metrics for confirming success. Real consultants will ensure that you get certain benchmarks that may be quantified to help you evaluate if your methods will work.
Modern business environments have become more and more competitive due to the explosive increase of the Internet. This is the reason you need a competent social media consultant who has the right experience, ability, and expertise to help your business grow in the digital age.
