Is Outsourcing Social Media A Good Idea?

Is outsourcing social media is even good idea?

Not so long ago, you would have been accused of being a heretic by even bringing up the idea of outsourcing your conversation with your prospects or consumers in the social media.  The naysayers argued that the concept of outsourcing is completely against the spirit of social media.

But in the space of a few months, I have noticed that those voices have been silenced.  In their place, we have witnessed the proliferation of solo entrepreneurs as well as full-on companies around the globe who are offering to manage every aspect of your social media program—from strategy to execution.

Why the change of heart?

It boils down to one four-letter word.

Time.

Companies (and individuals) already struggling with too much work who took a stab at social media realized that they simply did not have the time (and in many cases the skills) to manage an effective social media program.  A program that would bring real results.

This is my take on the issue of whether you should let someone else handle your social media.  Despite my great respect for many purists, I believe outsourcing is a perfectly sensible solution.   If you properly outsource, you can reap the following benefits:

• The establishment of a coherent social media marketing strategy
• The timely execution of all elements related to your Social Web presence
• The creation of high-quality content
• The extension of your brand into social media both in terms of look and tone and manner.
• The saving of hours and hours of precious time
• The ability to tap into someone else’s expertise while you get on with the business of running your company

Having said all that, it is imperative that when you do outsource that you don’t give up the reins of the horse altogether.  Every conversation on the Social Web which appears in your name—whether it be on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn or your blog- is a reflection of you.  You need to make absolutely sure to have safeguards in place that ensure the You that appears on the Social Web is the genuine You.  Even if someone else is executing, it is imperative that your social conversations always reflect both your personality and your beliefs.

– Susan