*One of the most common question that I hear in the 6 years that I’ve been actively managing social networks is “How do I hire the right person or company for social media”?  This is truly a difficult question to answer because, in every case, most businesses are different.  Secondly, all social media managers or social media management companies have their own culture.  Most businesses fear that their new hire or company will destroy the reputation and branding of the company.  So I will suggest a tried and true method to hiring your next social media marketer or social outsource firm.

*I’ve found that the only reason that most of our clients are still with us after 6 years, is the fact that we go out of our way to answer every email that our clients send us, we respond promptly and we don’t wait to respond. Social business and networking are all about immediacy and you have to be able to act quickly and with consistency, as social is a long term media platform.

*In my opinion this is the biggest area to look out for as you’re planning to hire your next social media team member or company.  How fast do they respond to your email?  Do their responses feel authentic?  How long have they been in business? The last question that I would ask myself is do I feel comfortable with this person or team?  We all have our gut intuition, so if yours is telling you to run then I would suggest you run and find another candidate or company.  Trust your gut, and let their actions guide your DECISION!

*I know that this can be a very difficult choice to make, and I would make sure that you focus on the core principles that I outlined above.  I’ve found that if a person or business is great at customer service, then I will have a long term relationship with them.  Even if there are errors or mistakes made, the person or company that owns it will always retain a longer lasting business partnership.  Keep this core strategy in focus when you’re planning to hire for social business, and you will SUCCEED!  

Photo Credit ( Business News Daily, Business 2 Community, stepfaniesdesk)