Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn…
These are a few popular social media platforms from a growing list.
In a recent study, Buffer highlighted the top 21 social media sites businesses could consider using to promote their brand.
And since they mentioned the top 21, there are more! It means there are many places for business owners to spread the word about their products and services.
However, the reality is that posting regularly and checking for feedback (likes and comments) can be overwhelming.
Just the thought of being on 2 or 3 platforms can be daunting for many business owners. They prefer to spend their time using their skills to make money.
So, what’s the solution? A Social Media Virtual Assistant, of course!
In this post, we will look at the following:
- The Role of a Social Media Virtual Assistant
- How to Become a Social Media Virtual Assistant
- Ways to Promote Your Social Media Services
Before reading this section, take a few minutes to do a quick online search. Enter the keywords ‘in-demand virtual assistant services’ and scan the top 5-10 links. I am confident that you will see social media manager or similar titles.
There is a growing need for social media support for businesses.
So, how can a Social Media Virtual Assistant help business owners? Let’s dive right in.
Role of a Social Media Virtual Assistant
A social media virtual assistant can help clients improve their online presence in a variety of ways, including:
Content Creation
A social media virtual assistant helps clients create and curate content for their social media accounts. Your job includes creating images for posts, stories, and reels, pins for Pinterest, and creating videos. You can also help clients with copywriting and content strategy.
Scheduling and Posting on Social
A social media virtual assistant can schedule posts in advance, ensuring a consistent posting schedule and freeing up time for your client to focus on other aspects of their business.
Social Media Management
As a Social Media Virtual Assistant, you can manage your client’s social media accounts by monitoring comments and direct messages and responding to them promptly.
Advertising
A social media virtual assistant can help clients set up and manage social media advertising campaigns, including targeting, ad creation, and optimization. These are done within a budget allowing the client to see a generous ROI.
Analytics and Reporting
A social media virtual assistant can provide clients with quarterly reports on their social media performance, including insights on engagement, reach, and follower demographics.
How to Become a Social Media Virtual Assistant
We have covered what you can do to help your clients. Now, let’s dive into how you can become a Social Media Virtual Assistant.
If you already have experience working online and enjoy writing and being creative, this career path may be for you. If you enjoy scrolling on social media and are always looking forward to the rapid changes made to their platforms, then you’re probably the person clients desperately need.
Here are some steps you can take to get started as a Social Media Virtual Assistant:
#1: Develop Social Media Skills
Like any job, you should know the basics. Get familiar with social media management tools and understand the principles of social media marketing.
Basics include:
- The popular platforms
- The main features of these platforms
- Scheduling tools
- And so on…
The obvious first step is to develop your social media skills. Start by focusing on one social media platform and master it, since each has its uniqueness, such as the accepted length for posts, ideal image dimensions, etc.
When you feel comfortable enough, add another platform.
In many instances, Social Media Virtual Assistants specialize in one platform and promote themselves as such. For example, you could promote yourself as a [PLATFORM NAME] VA, such as Pinterest VA, LinkedIn VA, etc.
Also, remember that social media platforms are constantly evolving, so keep aware of the updates. One way to do this is to join the platform’s community. Many social media platforms have a community to ask questions, share experiences, and be the first to know of changes.
You can also read how-to blog posts and guides that provide detailed information about the platform you’re interested in learning. We all know the power of YouTube, so you use it to watch tutorials.
But the best way to learn anything is to practice. Create a business account on the platform(s) you’re learning. As you watch a video or read about a specific step, the next thing is to take action. Practice what you’ve learned on your account. There’s another benefit of having your account, which will be discussed a little later.
#2: Identify Your Niche
Decide on a specific niche or industry to specialize in. It could be anything from healthcare to fashion to technology. Choose an area in which you have passion or experience.
One way to approach this is to list the industries you’ve worked in. Which ones did you enjoy the most? This simple exercise could help you narrow down your choice(s).
Now, you’re probably wondering why you need to identify a niche. Here’s why: It helps refine your marketing message when you are clear about your audience. Your words will resonate with them.
Also, decide which social media platforms you want to specialize in and what services you want to offer. You can focus on content creation, social media strategy development, community management, or a combination.
#3: Build a Portfolio
Build a portfolio of your work to showcase your skills and experience. This could include examples of social media posts you have created, reports you have generated, and campaigns you have managed.
As mentioned earlier, you should create an account and use the platform. The other benefit of having an account is to promote your services and showcase your work.
#4: Set Your Rates
Determine your hourly rate or package rates for your services. Factors in your experience, the complexity of the work, and the value you provide to your clients.
Since this will be a new venture, do your research to see what and how others are charging. While you don’t have to use their exact rates, you will understand how they price (hourly, packages, retainers). Your competitor research will also give you an idea of what they offer. This research can also help you identify what your offerings may be missing or gaps that you could fill.
#5: Network and Market Yourself
Through your social media presence, you could network with a larger audience. It also shows potential clients what you can do and how you’ll help them.
#6: Set Up Your Business
Once you have secured clients, set up your business by registering your business and establishing a billing and invoicing system. A website will be beneficial in the long term, but it is not an immediate requirement.
Create a contract that outlines the terms of your work agreement with your clients. It will help you establish clear expectations and boundaries for your services.
#7: Continuously Learn and Improve
Stay up-to-date with the latest social media trends, tools, and algorithms. Attend summits, webinars, and training programs. Get client feedback to improve your skills and services.
Becoming a social media virtual assistant requires dedication, hard work, and continuous learning. With the right skills and approach, you can build a successful career as a Social Media Virtual Assistant.
Ways to Promote Your Social Media Services
One piece of advice: Don’t wait to have everything perfect before promoting your services. Get your message out there and let the world know you’re open for business. Here are some ways to promote your social media services:
Freelance Marketplaces
You can find clients who need social media services on freelance marketplaces such as Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer, and Guru. These platforms allow you to create a profile, showcase your skills and portfolio, and bid on projects posted by clients.
Social Media Platforms
This option may seem like a no-brainer, but it must be mentioned. You can use social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram to connect with potential clients. Search for clients who have posted about their need for social media services, follow them, and engage with their content.
Referrals
You can ask your family, friends, and existing clients for referrals. Referrals can be a great way to find new clients as they are more likely to trust someone who has been recommended by someone they know.
Online and In-person Events
Attend industry events, summits, conferences, and trade shows to network with potential clients. These events create opportunities to meet with clients face-to-face and showcase your expertise. Have your business card handy to share your contact details with potential clients, connectors, or collaborators.
Cold Emailing
This approach is not usually a favorite, but it may work for you. Identify potential clients through research and send them personalized emails highlighting how your social media services can help them. Research their businesses and then tailor your emails to their specific needs.
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