Why Small Businesses Should Manage Their Own Social Media Accounts

Whether you’re keen on social media or not, a strong social media presence is essential for any business looking to succeed. While it may be tempting for small business owners to outsource social media management to an agency, taking on the task in-house offers many unique advantages. From building a community to crafting a distinct brand voice, managing your own social media can significantly benefit your business… Read on for a more in-depth look at why you may want to take (or regain) control of your social media presence for your small business.

More Authentic Interaction

There's something to be said for a social media post or response that comes directly from the business owner or staff, rather than a third-party agency. It's the difference between speaking with the chef at a small bistro or a generic customer service rep at a large chain. Authenticity can build stronger connections with your audience. When you manage your social media, your brand's personality shines through naturally, rather than being filtered through an external agency.

Understand Your Audience Better

No one knows your customers better than you do. As a small business, you have the advantage of interacting directly with your audience, receiving real-time feedback on your products or services. When you manage your own social media, you can immediately identify what resonates with your audience and adjust your strategies accordingly. This understanding is vital for customer retention and can lead to a more personalized and impactful marketing approach.

Build a Strong Community

Community is the backbone of any small business. Social media platforms offer an invaluable opportunity to foster a sense of belonging among your customers. By managing your own social media, you can facilitate engaging conversations, share customer testimonials, and create a strong community that amplifies word-of-mouth marketing. Your immediate engagement can turn your followers into brand advocates, significantly increasing your online reach.

Control Over Brand Voice and Messaging

Your brand voice is one of the most crucial elements of your business identity. It reflects your company's values, vision, and personality. When you manage your social media accounts, you have full control over the tone, content, and timing of your messages. This direct management allows you to create a consistent and recognizable brand voice, enhancing credibility and customer loyalty.

Cost-Effectiveness

Let's face it; small businesses often operate on tight budgets. While social media agencies offer valuable expertise, their services come at a premium cost. Managing your own social media can significantly cut expenses. The money saved can be funneled back into the business, funding other essential aspects like product development or employee training.

Quick Response Time

In an era where consumers expect quick answers, managing your own social media accounts allows you to provide real-time responses. Whether it's a customer query, a complaint, or simply someone singing your praises, a quick and appropriate reaction can significantly enhance customer experience.

Skill Development

Taking control of your social media management is an opportunity for skill development. Learning the ropes of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, not only benefits your current business but also equips you with skills that are increasingly becoming indispensable in today's digital world.

Conclusion

In my years of working with realtors, the most common request that I have received was to manage social media accounts. While tempting as it is to take on the task, I prefer to educate my clients on how to become savvy and comfortable with posting online. I usually recommend starting with one social media app rather than exploring them all at once and giving up due to frustration and time constraints.

My Tips for Social Media Success:

• Start by selecting a social media platform that you're comfortable using, and familiarize yourself with its features and functionalities

• Initially, aim to post once or twice a week to alleviate pressure and increase your chances of maintaining a consistent presence over time

• Discover your unique voice and actively engage with your audience to build a community

• Respond to comments, questions, and feedback in a timely manner to enhance user experience

• Whenever possible, set up a separate business account to distinguish your personal life from your professional endeavors

• If necessary, collaborate with a marketing expert to develop a comprehensive social media strategy

• Embrace the journey—be genuine, offer valuable content, and enjoy the creative process