As a small business owner, navigating the digital realm may need to be clarified and more manageable.

Do I need a social media manager? A creator of content? Or simply someone who understands how to post on numerous platforms? But, more significantly, do you have an established digital strategy? Are you constructing an email list? And what is your ultimate goal?

Looking beyond basic platform knowledge is critical when selecting a social media manager or content creator. Anyone can make a post on Facebook, Instagram, Threads or LinkedIn. 

However, effective social media management is more than just posting; it entails developing a unified digital strategy corresponding to your business objectives.

A digital strategy lays forth a clear path for your online operations. It outlines your target audience, the material that will be useful to them, and the platforms you will use to reach them. The strategy should also include a plan for measuring progress. Are you looking to improve brand exposure, generate leads, or make direct sales? Any approach must provide answers to these critical questions.

Another essential part of a solid digital strategy is creating an email list. While social media can effectively reach out to your target audience, you do not own those platforms. But what about an email list? That is all yours. It's a direct line to your clients, unaffected by constantly changing algorithms.

So, consider the big picture before hiring someone to manage your social media. 

It would help if you had a team or someone who understands how to navigate the digital terrain effectively. 

And it all starts with setting specific, quantifiable goals, creating a comprehensive digital strategy, and building your communication channels, such as an email list.