Social media virtual assistant vs social media manager
When you’re looking to generate more customers for your growing business, social media is a great option to raise brand awareness. But as it’s a task that can be difficult to keep up with and is usually harder than people think, so it’s likely you need support and it’s time to look for someone to help you.
“What’s the difference between a social media assistant and a social media manager?”
As a virtual assistant agency, we offer social media assistance to a range of businesses and often get asked this question by potential clients when exploring their options. Here’s an honest comparison between the two roles, so you can make an informed decision about what’s best for your business.
Comparing the roles of a social media assistant vs. a social media manager
There are two main avenues: a social media assistant or a social media manager (which also includes a management team like an agency).
It’s important to understand that, while the two roles are related, they differ significantly in terms of responsibilities, required skills, and level of strategic involvement. Let’s explain the key differences…
Social media assistant (or social media VA)
A social media assistant can help you get consistent with your social media marketing. They will support you with a range of tasks, including
- Mapping out your content on a calendar
- Drafting or creating social media posts
- Scheduling your posts ahead of time
- Engaging with comments/messages
Although social media assistants can offer support and guidance, they will need a clear marketing strategy to follow. That means you will still need to take some control of the decisions and ‘thinking’ parts of the process to steer them in the right direction. However, if you have a clear idea of your target audience and messaging, a social media assistant can be exactly what’s needed, and they can be a real asset to your business.
Many virtual assistants (VAs) offer this type of support alongside other business admin support you need. Forming a close relationship with a trusted VA can be great for your business growth. Check out our step-by-step guide to finding and hiring a great VA for your business needs.
Social media manager
The other option is fully outsourced social media management. This involves someone taking the lead on your overall content strategy, making decisions, and being more hands-on with testing and development.
A social media manager should have a well-rounded knowledge of all social media marketing, including different platforms. They are usually more experienced with analytics and testing new strategies, so are a great option if you don’t know where to begin and want someone experienced to take it off your hands. A social media manager can devise an effective plan to reach your audience, build your brand, and enhance your reputation.
Many freelance social media managers work with a range of businesses and you develop a close, personal relationship – much like with a VA. You should ensure you share values and like each other on a personal level, choosing someone you can trust to do a great job.
Other things to consider when looking for social media support
Alongside the general management and admin side of social media, you should also ask any prospective contractor if they can do everything you wish to achieve.
Depending on your business progress and marketing plan, you may also need:
- Graphic design to create visuals going beyond your current assets
- Community management if you have groups or private memberships
- Professional photography and videography
- Influencer outreach and management
- Paid social media ads/retargeting
If you need additional services, this is where an option such as a larger marketing agency could be beneficial. However, if you opt for an agency model, bear in mind you may end up working with different people across a team, so your experience will be different than with individual experts.
Cost comparisons: Social media assistant vs social media manager
In terms of cost, the rate for a social media assistant will be lower. It’s usually based on an hourly price model, typically between £25 – £50 per hour depending on the level of experience they have and the industry they’re working within.
If you opt for a virtual assistant to help you with social media, you might also start delegating other tasks to your VA that support other areas of your business. If this is the case, you may find their hourly rate differs compared to general admin duties, as it’s a higher-skilled role.
The costs for a specialist social media manager will likely be higher. The way they charge also differs, as they are more likely to charge a package fee for a set number of deliverables or set you up with a retainer for X days a month. You should expect the rate to increase to more like £50 – £100 per hour as a very rough guide.
Whichever option you decide is best for you, we always recommend getting super clear outlines of what they will (and won’t) be doing for you within their quote.
Which social media help option suits you best?
Generally speaking, a virtual social media assistant comes with lower costs and a more flexible approach to supporting you than an outsourced social media manager. Social media assistants tend to focus on execution and support tasks, while social media managers handle strategic planning and oversight, and managing a team (if there is one).
If removing the strategic part of this whole process is important to you, consider hiring a social media manager who can take everything off your plate. The choice is yours, and it will mostly depend on your budget and needs.
Hire a social media virtual assistant with Virtually Priceless
If you want someone who can help get things done to a high standard and you’re happy to be involved in part of the process, partner with a social media VA. Get in touch with Virtually Priceless to discuss your business’ needs and we can advise you on the best option for social media help.