The Great Debate: In-House Social Media Expert vs. Freelancer — What’s Best for Your Business?
If you’re a business owner, you already wear enough hats to rival a millinery shop. Marketing manager, product developer, customer service rep, accountant… the list goes on.
One hat you might be considering adding to your collection (or better yet, outsourcing) is social media marketing.
The big question is: should you hire an in-house social media expert or work with a freelancer like Virtual Hype Co.? Let’s dive into the pros and cons of both to help you make the best decision for your business.
The In-House Social Media Guru
The Benefits
Having a dedicated social media expert as part of your team can be a game-changer. They’re immersed in your business every day, understanding the ins and outs of your brand like no one else. They’ll likely be available for last-minute campaigns, can easily collaborate with other team members, and become an integral part of your company culture. Plus, a good social media manager can help you increase brand visibility and convert more sales organically through strategic posting, community engagement, and performance analysis.
The Considerations
Hiring in-house comes with its own set of challenges. First, you’ll need to cover a full-time salary, superannuation, taxes, annual leave, and sick leave. Then there’s the recruitment process, training, and the fact that one person can only specialise in so many areas — graphic design, video editing, content strategy, and analytics are often too much for a single person to master. And what happens when they’re on vacation or off sick? Your social media presence might be left hanging.
The Freelancer/Agency Advantage (Yes, That’s Us!)
The Benefits
When you hire Virtual Hype Co., you’re not just hiring a freelancer — you’re hiring an entire team. You’ll have a dedicated account manager who acts as your go-to person, keeping communication smooth and your goals on track. Plus, with our team approach, your account is never left unattended, even during annual leave or unforeseen sick days.
Another bonus? Access to a variety of content creators. Need someone to film a trendy TikTok, create a polished Instagram Reel, or snap aesthetic product shots? We’ve got you covered with creatives who specialise in different styles. And because we work from home, gorgeous local locations, or even your business premises, your content stays fresh and diverse.
Here’s a biggie: freelancers pay their own superannuation and taxes. This means you’re not footing the bill for extras that come with full-time employees, making it a better long-term investment for your business.
The Considerations
Freelancers and agencies may not be physically in your office, so if you prefer face-to-face collaboration every day, this might feel different. However, with today’s tech — Zoom, Slack, and Google Drive — staying connected is easier than ever.
Why You Need a Social Media Expert (In-House or Freelance)
A dedicated social media expert isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity in today’s digital landscape. Did you know:
84% of people purchase a product or service after watching a video about it.
On average, it takes 7-10 touches before a potential customer decides to buy from your business.
Having someone focused solely on your social media strategy means you’re consistently showing up for your audience, building trust, and staying top of mind — all of which are essential for converting followers into loyal customers.
Freeing Up Your Time as a Business Owner
Let’s face it: your time is better spent doing what you do best — running your business.
A social media expert, whether part-time, full-time, in-house, or freelance, can take this task off your plate.
They’ll focus on creating engaging content, analysing performance, and managing your community so you can concentrate on growing your empire. Once you make this hire, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.
Not Ready to Hire Yet? Here Are Some DIY Tips
If you’re not quite ready to bring in a social media expert, here are a few ways to manage your own social media presence:
Batch Your Content: Dedicate one day a week to creating posts, captions, and scheduling them using tools like Later or Business Suite.
Focus on Video: Videos are highly engaging and often favored by algorithms. Try simple formats like behind-the-scenes clips or quick product demos.
Engage With Your Audience: Reply to comments and DMs to build relationships with your followers.
Stick to a Schedule: Consistency is key. Aim for 3-5 posts per week to stay visible without overwhelming yourself.
Keep It Authentic: Share your story, values, and real-life moments to connect with your audience on a personal level.
The Verdict?
Both in-house experts and freelancers offer incredible value, and the right choice depends on your business needs and budget.
If you want a flexible, cost-effective option with access to a team of skilled professionals (hi, that’s us!), Virtual Hype Co. might be your perfect match. And if you’re ready to make that leap, we’d love to help you take your social media game to the next level!
