It’s true. Social media takes time.

Let’s be honest.  Most small business owners don’t have oodles of free time on their hands. And we at AngCo know that to be successful with social media, it’s important to be realistic about the time you’re able to commit. For this reason, many small business owners outsource to online managers and virtual assistants. Business owners just don’t have the time to get the results they want from their social media. It takes time and consistency to grow a network and maintain it.

Here is the million dollar question to ask:  Is there enough time in my day to properly manage my social media?

As a general rule, it takes two to three hours a week to maintain and grow your connections.

As someone once said, “If you can’t do it right, don’t do it at all.”

And there is a point to that. If you don’t have the time, don’t do it! It will end up being a giant waste of effort if you only commit halfway. Social media for business should be a priority if it’s going to work. Having a good strategy that aligns with your business goals, along with consistent follow through, are the key components to success with social media.

The beauty of social media is that it keeps you connected to your audience, customers, prospects and referral partners.  It’s an extension of your brand’s online personality, making others feel connected to you and your brand. I believe that alone is worth the time and energy to do it well. Please keep in mind, a neglected online presence doesn’t necessarily hurt, but it neither helps.  At the end of the day, it’s all about what you want out of your social media experience.
What if you don’t have the time or know how?  There are some alternatives to having a social media presence:

1.)  You can outsource to an online manager or social media virtual assistant who can help with strategy and overall management.

2.)   Take a smaller bite at first. If you’re just starting out, try Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter, but not all three.  Play to your strengths.

3.)   Lastly, choose not do any social media.  Use the extra time in the areas of your strength.  Though I don’t recommend this as a long-term solution, let’s face it, social media is not going anywhere anytime soon.

So, think about it before you hop into every social media site you can find. Ask yourself, “How much time do I truly have available?”