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How to Build a Successful Social Media Consulting Service

how to build a social media consulting service

The pandemic accelerated digital transformation for businesses. Brands both large and small, whether ecommerce or social media, require more and more expertise, advice, and help to operate. Having a successful social media consulting service under your belt has never been more needed…

Hiring for digital marketing roles has grown nearly 33% year-over-year, and social media roles figure heavily:

  • 74% – Social Media Marketing Manager
  • 64% – Social Media Marketing Consultant
  • 54% – Social Media Manager
  • 31% – Social Media Marketing Specialist
  • 29% – Social Media Strategist
  • 28% – Social Media Coordinator

If you’ve been on the fence, it’s prime time to launch your social media consulting service or expand your current services to include social media. 

Inside, you’ll learn:

  • What a social media consultant does
  • Whether you should start an agency or operate as a freelancer
  • When it’s the right time to launch your social media consulting service
  • How to launch your own social media consulting service

Let’s start!

What do Social Media Consultants do? 

social media consulting What Does a Social Media Consultant do

A better question is what don’t they do? 

Social media consultants perform a variety of services depending on their expertise and their client’s requirements. For instance, a company might request a once-only social media training for their in-house team or a monthly retainer to manage all their social media campaigns.

The typical skills a social media manager or consultant needs include:

  • Copywriting
  • Photography & Videography
  • Graphic design & animation
  • Market research
  • Reporting & analytics
  • Best practices for each social platform
  • Business and marketing strategy
  • Competitive analysis
  • Content & editorial planning
  • And much more

While a lot is asked of social media marketers, most will specialize in a few areas. You don’t have to do it all, you just have to be clear with clients about your service offering! 

Should You Start an Agency or Operate as a Freelancer?

social media consulting Should You Start an Agency or Operate as a Freelancer

Social media consultants can operate either as an agency or a freelancer – but which option is best?

Agency pros:

  • Operating under a company name may give you more kudos and help you attract more prominent clients.
  • It’s easier to transition from solo to a team while keeping the same agency branding.
  • Operating as a limited liability company (LLC) protects your personal assets, such as your home, if a client decides to sue you.

Agency cons:

  • Operating as a limited company entails different (stricter) tax rules, like company tax and employee tax.

Freelancer pros:

  • Operating as a sole trader has simplified taxes.
  • You can focus on building your reputation and brand.

Freelancer cons:

  • It may be harder to attract investment as a freelancer compared to an agency.

If you’re just starting out, the overwhelming advice would be to start as a freelancer , then grow into your own agency. It’s the fastest, most effective, and least risky way to get started. 

Gain a reputation. Build out your own brand, book of business, and portfolio. Once you’ve established yourself as an authority within your industry, then consider growing into a full agency.

When is the Right Time to Launch a Social Media Consulting Service?

social media consulting When is the Right Time to Launch a Social Media Consulting Service

There’s no right or wrong time to start your social media consulting service. It’s up to you and your goals. But, if there ever was a time to do it, it’s now. The pandemic has made businesses even more dependent on digital marketing and social media to reach customers, and this will only continue. 

As we outlined earlier, social media is hard. It requires a ton of time, experience, and technical expertise that many marketers, let alone business owners, don’t have. A word of caution: don’t launch until you’re confident you can craft and execute a full social media marketing plan. If you don’t feel confident that you’ll be able to clearly define deliverables and meet high client expectations, hold off until you’ve gotten more projects under your belt.

How to Launch Your Own Social Media Consulting Service

Follow these six steps to launch your own social media consulting service:

  • Build and maintain your credibility
  • Choose your niche
  • Create a business plan
  • Price and package your services
  • Attract and win clients
  • Track your progress

1. Building and maintaining your credibility

social media consulting Building and maintaining your credibility

The first step starts before you launch your services and continually evolves as your business grows.

Without credibility, no one will hire you.

So how do you become credible?

Establish your own social media presence

First of all, you need to establish yourself on social media . You don’t have to be active on all the social networks, but you should definitely be active on those platforms you want to specialize in and where your prospective clients will be present. It’s your chance to convince prospects you know how to market on social media.

Also, remember to post consistently on your chosen platforms. Prospects will check your profiles and won’t want to see 3-week gaps where nothing was posted.

Build your website

In addition to social media, you’ll also want to consider building a website where you can showcase your talent, and eventually, the services you offer.

Aside from social media, prospective clients will check out your website. You don’t have to build a flashy website, just something that is clean and functional.

It’s also a place to house your case studies and testimonials – nothing beats social proof for establishing your credibility:

social media consulting build credibility client testimonials

Consider adding relevant client testimonials from unpaid jobs (internships), side projects, and charity work when you’re just starting out.

Develop your skills

As a social media professional, you need to continually develop your skills to ensure you’re up to date on the latest trends and techniques. Make sure you understand the nitty-gritty details, including the terms of service, rules, promotions, and analytics for each social network.

Also, consider getting recognized qualifications that prove you have studied social media marketing .

Work on side projects

One way to build credibility is to start some social media consulting as a side project while you’re still in full-time employment. You can test the waters to see if you like working solo, and if all goes to plan, it lets you display client testimonials on your website before you launch full-time.

You can build a profile and start taking on projects through freelancer marketplaces such as Twine . They make it easy to build your portfolio and hone your skills.

Start networking and building connections

One activity you always need to be practicing is networking. You can start building your network long before you launch your consulting business. It will be far easier to launch if you already have an engaged audience. 

Here are a few ways:

  • Network with other social media consultants online – you’ll find there is a helpful community out there.
  • Follow and engage with brands you’d like‌ ‌to‌ ‌work‌ ‌with‌ ‌–‌ ‌start‌ ‌building‌ relationships.
  • Attend social media events – virtual events to put faces to names and physical events to meet people in person.
  • Build a powerful LinkedIn profile, connect with peers and clients , and engage in conversations.
  • The industry and niches you’re targeting , so you can contribute and demonstrate your social media skills and experience.
  • Social media marketing, so you can network and get support from your peers.

2. Choosing your niche

social media consulting Choosing your niche

Before you launch your social media consulting service, you’ll need to choose your niche. There are three ways you can niche-down.

When you’re starting out, it’s a good idea to focus on one or two social media platforms rather than spreading yourself too thin. Remember, each platform has:

  • Different algorithms
  • Different audiences
  • Different types of content

For example, LinkedIn and Snapchat are poles apart, so it wouldn’t make sense to cover both platforms. However, if you want to become a visual marketing expert, it makes sense to offer both Instagram and Pinterest services.

Next, you want to consider what industry or sector you want to work with.

Remember, different industries need different kinds of campaigns, even if they’re on the same platform. For instance, an ecommerce fashion retailer and a real estate agency will have different types of campaigns and content even if they both use Facebook Ads.

Focus on industries that suit your previous knowledge and skill set, so you don’t have to learn too much new information. Also, be mindful of choosing profitable industries rather than struggling ones, so you don’t have to worry about getting paid.

Finally, you’ll need to decide what services you’ll specialize in. For example, you might choose to focus on organic social media rather than paid social media services. You’ll have to stick to your guns, as clients will inevitably ask you for work beyond your scope of services. Pick your niche, communicate it clearly, and stick to it.

3. Creating a business plan

social media consulting Creating a business plan

Planning is an essential step before you launch your consulting services.

Conduct research

When you’re creating your business plan, you’ll need to research:

  • Current industry trends – to get a clear understanding of where things are standing.
  • Target market – to check it’s healthy and viable.
  • Competitors – to see what’s working and what isn’t.
  • Skills – to check you have everything.

Decide on your structure: agency or solo

As mentioned earlier, you’ll need to decide on the structure of your business. There’s no right or wrong answer – just weigh up the pros and cons above.

Decide on your business name

Next, you’ll need to choose your business name, which essentially becomes your brand name, so it makes sense to take your time and get it right.

If you decide to operate as a freelancer, you could use your own name. However, if you build your brand around your name and then want to expand into an agency later, your name might not work.

Note: Any name you choose that isn’t your given name should be checked on the United States Patent and Trademark Office ( USPTO ) website to ensure it’s not already trademarked by someone else.

Taxes/Legalities/Accounting

Depending on the country and region you live in, you’ll have to obtain different licenses and certifications to run a legal business. Consider the following:

  • Set up a business bank account to keep your funds separate.
  • Register your business with the tax office.
  • Find an accountant to help you with your taxes and financial planning.
  • Hire a lawyer to help you establish legal contracts to use with your clients.

Work on your branding

We’ve already mentioned building a website and establishing your social media presence. Once you’ve chosen your business name and logo , you can circle back and make sure these online accounts all have your branding in terms of logo, colors, and fonts, so you start to build awareness with a unified impression.

Tools and processes

At this stage, you can also start planning what tools, processes, and workflows you’re going to use to make your business run smoothly.

For example, consider how you’ll manage clients from start to finish:

  • Prospecting: How do you attract clients? How do they schedule‌ ‌a‌ ‌consultation‌ ‌with‌ ‌you?
  • Proposal: How will you review and approve the proposal?
  • Contract: Are you providing a contract? Is it easy to understand? How do clients sign it?
  • Onboarding: How do you start working with a new client?
  • Invoicing: How do you deliver invoices? How do you want to be paid? Is your client clear on payment‌ ‌terms‌ ‌and‌ ‌late‌ ‌fees?

Also, consider what tools you’ll need, such as:

  • Social media management software
  • Graphic design tools
  • Analytics and reporting program
  • Office apps, including email, word processing, and spreadsheets
  • Video conferencing
  • Project management tools
  • Appointment scheduling software
  • Invoicing software

4. Pricing and packaging your services

social media consulting Pricing and packaging your services

There are various ways that you can price and package your services. Let’s examine a few options.

Hourly/daily rate

An hourly or daily rate is ideal for an unknown variable, for example, mentoring, consulting, or training, that you bill as time is consumed. For example, you might agree to offer your social media consulting services for $50/hour.

Project-based rate

You can use a project-based or fixed rate when you provide bespoke services, like consultations, strategy sessions, audits, or training. You’ll need to have a good handle on how long a piece of work will take before you can feel confident charging per project.

For example, you could agree to complete a social media audit for a fixed sum of $500, regardless of how much time it takes you. Payment for project-based work is usually made in advance, at agreed milestones, 50% in advance, and 50% on completion, or on completion.

Monthly retainer

A monthly retainer is used when you agree to deliver regular recurring monthly services with payment on a set date each month. Retainers vary slightly, so you may agree to provide X hours per month or a fixed piece of work. For example, you agree to provide 20 hours per month to manage a client’s social media campaigns. Or, you might agree to deliver social media publishing and reporting for Facebook and Instagram.

Packaged services

By the time you get onto monthly retainers, you’re almost in packaged services territory. These are a set of services you provide every month for a fixed fee.

Pro Tip: Overdeliver. Whatever pricing and packaging strategy you choose, always overdeliver. You’ll establish a strong reputation that’ll help you get testimonials and referrals for future clients. Whatever you do, don’t overpromise!

5. Attracting and winning clients

social media consulting Attracting and winning clients

Attracting and winning clients is probably the most challenging part of launching your business. Here are a few options to explore:

Work in an agency

Before launching your services, gain valuable experience by working for a social media agency:

  • You get to know how an agency operates.
  • You get to build your contacts and connections in the industry.
  • You get to establish your credibility as a social media consultant.

Reach out to existing connections

If you’ve followed the earlier advice in step #1, you should now have an extensive network you can tap into. Even if the person or business you contact can’t use you, they might know of other people who can. You can’t underestimate the power of networking.

Use freelance marketplaces 

When you’re starting out you can often find suitable work in freelance marketplaces like Twine . Make sure you’re balancing your time and working for a rate that’s fair for your work and skills.

Generate leads

If you’ve set up your website, then you can create a landing page to generate leads. You can do this way ahead of launching, so you have a waiting list of prospects to contact when you’re ready. Start a waitlist or share some free resources to build your email list.

Start local

One option when launching your services is to focus on local businesses. Now that pandemic restrictions have loosened, you can actually get out into your neighborhood and introduce yourself to companies, leave some brochures, and follow up with a call. 

Also, if you’re going down the local path, get active in your local business community. For example, you could attend the Chamber of Commerce meetings to connect with businesses looking for social media consultants. Word of mouth is always the best way to grow your business. It’s free and effective!

6. Tracking your progress

social media consulting Tracking your progress

Once you’re up and running, you’ll need to track your progress.

Measure and adjust

First, you need to measure how your clients benefit from your social media services, according to what you offered. For example:

  • Are their social media campaigns a success?
  • Have you increased brand awareness ?
  • Have you trained their team as promised?

Bottom line: you need to prove that your clients are getting a return on their investment. Use tools like Loomly to track your marketing efforts and show them the results.

You’ll also need to track progress in your business as a whole:

  • Are you meeting your objectives?
  • Do you need to make any changes?

Remember, the digital landscape is always changing, so you’ll have to measure and adjust accordingly.

Ongoing development

One area not to forget is your ongoing personal development. It’s easy to become 100% booked on client work and forget that you need some time for yourself. Social media platforms are always changing, so keeping updated on the latest developments is a minimum. You’ll also want to stay abreast of industry trends and what your competitors are offering.

Grow your business

Once you’ve established your business, you’ll want to scale and grow accordingly. This is a great opportunity to find someone you can bounce ideas off of or learn from. 

You’ll need to decide how you want to grow. For example, you could hire people so that you can serve more clients with your proven services. It may be prudent to hire freelancers to help you instead of hiring staff and having all the necessary overheads.

Wrapping Up

There’s no right or wrong time to launch your social media consulting service, but with the pandemic, there’s never been a greater need for qualified social media consultants to advise and help businesses through the digital marketing landscape.

Use the reminders in this blog to help you out as you follow these six steps to launch your own successful social media consulting service:

Ready to get hired? At Twine , we have dozens of top-quality jobs being posted each and every day. From design to marketing, development to copywriting – there’s a job ready for your skills. Join the marketplace of diverse creative talent here .

Andrew Barlos

Andrew Barlos is Sr. Director of Marketing at Loomly, a leading social media management platform.

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how to start your own social media consultancy

How to Start Your Own Social Media Consultancy

Profile picture of Anna Sonnenberg

Written by Anna Sonnenberg

Last modified Aug. 30 2022 · 13 min read

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Table of Contents

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Do you want to use your social media expertise to help other businesses and entrepreneurs grow their brands? Launching a social media consultancy can be a great way to share your skills and get paid for your extensive industry knowledge.

So, what’s the first step you should take? Find out how to start a social media consulting business and discover why becoming a consultant could be a smart career move.

What Is a Social Media Consultancy?

A social media consultancy is a business that provides social media marketing advice to companies, creators, and marketers. A consultancy can employ several experts or a single social media consultant.

Similar to social media agencies , consultancies can come in all shapes and sizes. Your consultancy can provide expert advice on virtually every aspect of social media marketing—or it can specialize in a select few areas or industries.

How is a consultancy different from an agency?

Most social media agencies offer done-for-you services that involve executing social media campaigns and strategies. For example, agencies often manage social media accounts, create organic content, engage with followers, and run paid campaigns.

In contrast, a consultancy typically focuses on analysis and insights instead of managing content creation.

For example, digital marketing consultants often analyze campaign results, review competitive intelligence, and recommend social media strategies.

5 Reasons to Create a Social Media Consultancy

Perhaps you’re trying to decide between starting a social media management consultancy and launching an agency. Or maybe you’re considering becoming an independent social media marketer.

Here are some compelling reasons to launch a social media consultancy.

1. You’re an expert social media marketer

Before you can advise clients about using social media for marketing, you need extensive firsthand experience.

How much experience do you need? There’s no set number of accounts you should have managed or years you should have worked in social media.

But you should have managed enough accounts and worked in social media for enough time to feel confident in your expertise.

In other words, you should understand how to:

  • Access and use the features of each social media channel
  • Create compelling content that works with (rather than against) the algorithm
  • Analyze and report on social media results , including developing benchmarks
  • Identifying problems and challenges and developing realistic solutions
  • Creating effective social media strategies that fit a variety of budgets

2. Your social channels are models for brand growth

As a social media marketer, you may have managed accounts for your employer, your agency clients, or your own business.

No matter where you’ve gained experience, however, you should apply what you’ve learned to your own social media accounts.

In other words, your social channels should serve as models of healthy brand growth.

Think of your social channels as tools for building trust. Potential clients should be able to look at your social profiles and see how you’ve grown and how you implement smart strategies.

Have you been too busy managing client or corporate accounts, leaving you with little time to build your own social profiles? Before launching your social media consultancy, it’s a good idea to take some time to build a portfolio.

3. You’ve built an impressive network

Building a social media consultancy—or any kind of marketing business—from scratch isn’t easy. But if you already have a network of supporters and potential clients, you may find it a little less difficult to launch a successful consultancy.

If you’re concerned your network is too small or if you haven’t developed one yet, start working on yours now. A simple way to get started is to leave helpful, insightful comments on social media content that peers and potential clients publish.

How to Succeed as a Social Media Agency: Tips for Newbies and Pros

4. You’re skilled at marketing your social media services

Cultivating a supportive network is just one of the many steps you’ll need to take before you sign clients. It’s also important to know how to market your social media services.

After all, you have to convert followers into paying clients.

If you’re already a pro at marketing yourself, you can check this item off the list. But if your self-promotion efforts need some work, use your social media expertise. Put your knowledge of social media funnels to work as you develop paid and organic campaigns to promote your consultancy.

5. You prefer teaching and problem-solving over executing strategies

When you know that you want to build a business focused on social media, you might naturally gravitate toward offering done-for-you services. But before you begin offering social media management services, think carefully about your strengths.

If you excel at teaching people about social media marketing and training them in best practices, becoming a social media consultant may be a better choice. Similarly, if you prefer solving problems and troubleshooting issues over executing strategies, a consultant role may be the ideal career fit for you.

How to Start a Social Media Consultancy

Do you want to become a digital marketing consultant—but don’t know how to get started? Follow the steps below to build your own social media consultancy.

1. Research the competition

First, survey the landscape and do some competitive research.

Before you launch your business, it’s essential to get a sense of what’s already happening in the industry. That way you can position your social media consultancy and price your offerings effectively.

If you’ve worked in social media for long, you probably already have a few competitors in mind. To survey a bigger slice of the market, use search engines and social media platforms to look up other consultancies.

Then make note of factors like:

  • Location and service area
  • Specialties and services offered
  • Packages and pricing
  • Unique selling point (USP)

2. Decide on services or industries

It’s normal to share a few factors with other consultancies. But it’s important to differentiate your business from the competition. Naturally, you want to give clients a reason to choose your consultancy over the other options. In many cases, you can stand out from the competition by focusing your business on a certain industry or set of services.

For example, do you have tons of experience managing social media marketing for a single industry—such as tech or software as a service (SaaS)? If you opt to consult only with tech firms or SaaS companies, your industry experience can be a key part of your social media consultancy’s USP.

In other cases, the services you offer can set you apart from other consultants in your space. Here are a few social media consulting services you can consider offering:

  • Strategy development and review for paid or organic campaigns
  • Profile audits
  • Competitive and market research
  • Reporting and analysis
  • Training and coaching

3. Create packages or set a fee structure

Once you’ve confirmed which services you’ll offer, decide how you’ll package and price them. In some cases, offering one-off projects may make the most sense, given your clients’ needs. But when you want to maximize the value you deliver and the revenue you generate, packages tend to be better options.

Your consultancy might combine social media audit and competitive research services into a single package to encourage clients to purchase both. Along the same lines, you might offer a small discount to clients who purchase training for two or three social channels.

social media consultancy - The Social Network

For example, The Social Network offers one-time troubleshooting calls or long-term strategy packages.

In some cases, you can even turn one-off projects into recurring services that generate revenue every month or quarter. For example, you might offer quarterly strategy reviews or biannual training updates.

social media consultancy - eVision Media

For example, eVision Media offers monthly packages that include weekly strategy calls and email guidance.

4. Adopt tools and develop workflows

Next, invest in the tools you need to run your social media consultancy.

Depending on which services you offer, you may need a few different categories of tools.

For social media reporting and analysis, Agorapulse is a smart solution. With Agorapulse’s reports, you can analyze audience, engagement, and content performance for all major social media channels—and even use the built-in comparison tool to see trends over time.

Agorapulse - social media report

For training and coaching, video apps like Loom can help you record simple tutorials. When you want to teach in real time, video conferencing platforms like Zoom work well. And if you want to market your social media course, consider using a platform like Kajabi .

To save yourself time and hassle, it’s also a good idea to create repeatable workflows. Apps like Process Street make it easy to record your workflows so you or your team members can use them to get reliable results again and again.

5. Market your social media consultancy

Once you’ve structured your business, you need a marketing plan and a sales funnel. To boost awareness of your consultancy and your expertise, share helpful content that educates your audience about the types of services you offer.

social media consultant - Luan Wise

To increase interest in your consultancy and to encourage prospects to consider your services, share lead magnets like guides, ebooks, or webinars. For example, social media consultant Luan Wise promotes her webinars and other training resources on Twitter.

social media consultant - Neal Schaffer

To get leads to purchase your services, create conversion-focused content that features irresistible offers. For example, social media consultant Neal Schaffer promotes his digital marketing coaching services on LinkedIn.

6. Make a plan to grow your business

At first, you might establish your social media consultancy as a one-person operation. Over time, however, your business may grow—and you may not be able to manage it on your own. When you have more business than you can handle, it’s a good idea to create and implement a growth plan.

To ensure that your business grows the way you want, think carefully about who to hire. If you have tons of potential clients on your waiting list who want exactly what you offer, then hiring another consultant with similar skills is a good idea.

But if you have a lot of leads who have asked for consulting services that you don’t currently offer, consider seeking out an expert with complementary skills. That way you can expand your services and continue growing your business.

How to Measure the Success of Your Social Media Consultancy

Now that you’ve built a foundation for your business, you need a way to assess your achievements.

For most social media consultancies, business success begins with setting goals and monitoring metrics .

Below, we’ll look at a few key metrics that every social media consultancy should track. When deciding on key performance indicators (KPIs), keep in mind that every business is different. Your KPIs may be completely different from your competitors, based on your location, specialties, and scale of operations.

Leads and conversion rates

To keep your client roster as full as possible, you need a steady stream of leads. In most cases, you can’t expect to convert all the leads who enter your sales pipeline. But over time, you can track the number of leads you attract and the number you convert.

Using these figures, you can calculate your conversion rate. Then you can use your conversion rate as a benchmark, which can keep you on track and help you focus on your goals over time.

You can also use your consultancy’s conversion rate to calculate the number of leads you need to generate. For example, if you have five client slots to fill and your conversion rate is 10%, then you can be reasonably sure you need to generate 50 leads to reach your goals.

No matter the size of your social media consultancy, revenue is a critical metric to track. To set revenue goals, calculate how much you need to earn each month. First, add up all your expenses—from team members and taxes to office space and software.

Next, consider how much profit you want to generate or how much you want to invest back into your business. Then add up all those numbers to get the total monthly revenue goal for your consultancy.

If you’ve built your business around monthly retainers or recurring packages, you can predict revenue for upcoming months much more easily. That way you can increase or decrease your lead generation efforts as necessary to reach your goals.

Return on investment (ROI)

Individually, both revenue and expenses are important to track. Yet it’s also helpful to compare them so you can make sure you’re getting enough value from your efforts.

To calculate ROI , add up revenue and investment for a period of time or for a specific initiative. Then divide revenue by expenses and multiply the result by 100%. Here’s a simple formula you can use:

ROI = Revenue / Expenses x 100%

For example, say you brought in $25,000 and spent $10,000 over the course of a month.  Your ROI would be 250%. Although that sounds like an excellent ROI, it’s important to compare it to your goals and to previous months to confirm how successful it truly is.

social media consultancy, How to Start Your Own Social Media Consultancy

Customer lifetime value (CLV)

Acquiring new clients can be expensive—and it almost always costs more than retaining existing clients. The cost of landing a new client can be 5X higher than the cost of continuing a relationship with an existing client.

Many social media consultancies prioritize client retention over acquisition, as longer relationships can lead to higher CLV. Upselling and cross-selling related services can also help your consultancy increase CLV.

CLV = Average Client Value x Average Client Lifespan

To calculate CLV, you need to know the average amount you charge clients for each purchase (i.e., the project or package size) and the average number of purchases a client makes. Then use the formula above to find your consultancy’s CLV.

If your social media consultancy offers packages and retainers, then you have a built-in method for retaining customers. If you typically focus on one-time projects, however, you may have more clients who only work with you once.

Either way, it’s helpful to calculate your churn rate , which reflects how well your consultancy retains customers. The lower your churn rate, the better your business is at keeping customers. Here’s a simple formula for calculating churn rate:

Churn Rate = Lost Customers / Total Customers x 100%

For example, say you lost two customers out of 10 total over the past month. Your churn rate would be 20%. If you wanted to decrease it, you could brainstorm ways to encourage clients to sign on for recurring services—and potentially increase CLV at the same time.

Wrapping Up What We Learned About Starting a Social Media Consultancy

With social media expertise, a solid network, and a strong business plan, you can start a successful social media consultancy. Use the tips above to build your consulting business and ensure that it remains successful for years to come.

Get started on saving time and energy in managing your clients’ social accounts! Check out our free trial of Agorapulse  to help you schedule, track, and measure all your social media efforts.

How to Start Your Own Social Media Consultancy

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How to Become a Social Media Consultant, According to 5 Successful Ones

Caroline Forsey

Updated: November 12, 2019

Published: August 20, 2019

Nowadays, social media is a critical component of any business's marketing strategy.

social media consultant: image shows people with laptops and social media icons

There are over 3.2 billion people on social media globally . With such a large potential audience, it's becoming essential for every company to use social media to reach new prospects, boost brand awareness, and market their products or services.

But oftentimes, marketing on social media platforms is easier said than done -- and when you're working at a small company with limited resources, it can be tricky (or even impossible) to hire and train a fully-staffed social media team.

If a company doesn't have the resources to staff a social media team in-house, they aren't out of luck -- as an alternative, they can hire a social media consultant to help them increase their social media presence and grow traffic to their social accounts.

If you're a social media consultant, you're required to act as the voice, eyes, and ears of a client across various social platforms to properly engage with and grow an audience. While an undoubtedly rewarding role, it can be tricky -- which is why we've gathered insights from five successful social media consultants.

If you're interested in becoming a social media consultant but aren't sure how to get started, or you're hiring a social media consultant for your team but aren't sure what to look for, keep reading.

Download Now: Free Consultant's Success Kit

How to Become a Successful Social Media Consultant

1. build a portfolio of case studies, and produce and publish content that proves your worth..

Keith Kakadia, Founder and CEO Sociallyin.com , told me -- "My advice to anyone who is trying to build a portfolio of clients as a social media marketing consultant would be to do a few things, starting with building out your portfolio of case studies. Many clients want to see the work you have done in the past for others successfully."

"The second piece of advice I could give," Kakadia adds, "is to produce and publish content that shows your expertise in the field of social media marketing. Having a blog or even writing on a channel like Medium can help you stand out from the crowd of social media consultants."

If you're interested in creating your own blog, take a look at How to Create a Successful Blog Strategy: A Step-by-Step Guide .

2. Network, network, network.

Akvile DeFazio, President of AKvertise, Inc. , advises aspiring social media consultants to network: "The moment you decide you want to take the leap to become a social media consultant and eventually shift towards doing it full-time, I encourage you to begin networking and sharing your skillset and services with others, on and offline, even if you aren't working for yourself just quite yet."

"Relationships and building up your clientele can take time, so begin feeding your funnel as soon as you can. As someone who has always enjoyed networking, I didn't realize just how valuable my network was until I announced that I was leaving my former employer to go out on my own. I imagined that as soon as I did, I would lose some ties as I wouldn't be seeing industry peers and business owners in person as much, but to my surprise, many of them shared in my excitement and sent leads and clients my way."

To begin networking, DeFazio suggests checking out places like meetup.com , joining Twitter chats regarding topics relevant to social media, and guest blogging to expand your reach and visibility. She also recommends researching podcasts that might be interested in having you as a guest, attending industry events such as pop-up networking events or conferences, and checking out your local chamber of commerce.

3. Create an engaging Instagram account.

Simone, a social media consultant and Founder of Savvy Simone , told me -- "If you are hoping to become a successful Social Media Consultant, the first thing to do is create an Instagram and post frequently. Don't worry too much about a logo or a polished website, that can come later."

"Focus on growing a loyal following by providing value (social media tips and tricks) and sprinkling in some of your own personal life," Simone added. "If you don't have any formal experience, you can still attract potential leads by sharing your knowledge with the world. Be passionate about your new venture and make sure to spend time developing your own personal brand and online presence. Also, ask other social media consultants how they got started. Most are more than willing to chat with you!"

If you're unsure how to grow an Instagram following, check out Instagram Marketing: The Ultimate Guide .

4. Timing is critical.

Amy Bishop, owner of Cultivative, LLC. and a Digital Marketing Consultant, told me it's critical you remain practical when deciding when, and how, you're going to create your own business -- "Timing is typically one of the most difficult factors in deciding when to go out on your own. Only you will know when the time is right, but I suggest saving up about three to six months worth of living expenses, just in case things don't go as planned."

"Even if you don't need the money," she says, "it will save you some stress and likely prevent you from taking on clients that are a poor fit, or pricing yourself too low out of desperation to sign clients. Oftentimes (assuming it doesn't break any contracts with your current employer), consultants will pick up a few clients before quitting their current job, to ensure they have a little bit of revenue flow -- but I recognize sometimes that's not an option."

Additionally, Bishop mentions it's vital you set up an LLC for your new business (it's relatively inexpensive to set it up online), and keep track of expenses and income for tax purposes later on.

5. A tiered approach is a good one. 

Crystal King , HubSpot Academy Social Media Professor, told me -- "Make sure you understand upfront how big the job you are taking on will be. Survey your clients thoroughly. Sometimes they may not really know what they want or need. Be ready to deliver a proposal that accurately defines what you think is best for their business, the scope of the work, and what additional fees there may be for work that goes beyond the original parameters of the project.

"A tiered approach is often a good one -- what the client would get for a very high cost, a medium rate, and a low one."

Additionally, Crystal mentioned, "Be clear about hours and the activities that such a fee would encompass. And keep in mind that there is only one of you --be ready to say no if the job is too big, or ask if bringing in freelancers to help you is something that can be accommodated by their budget."

5. Prioritize lead generation.

Amy Bishop told me -- "Lead generation is critical and, for many folks, the most stress-inducing part of starting your own business. There's a huge demand for social media consultants -- you just have to know how to find them. Start by reaching out to your network to let them know you're offering consulting services. Ask them if they know of anyone that could use your services. Even if they don't, they'll likely keep you in mind for future reference."

"Additionally, join local networking groups and associations. Try to identify folks with skills that don't overlap with yours that you could partner with -- for instance, folks that do web development, email marketing, or SEO, but not social media management. If you find yourself struggling to sign on clients, consider reaching out to agencies and asking for overflow work. You can keep your skills sharp and have some income coming in while you continue to work on new business."

Ultimately, Amy insists if you're passionate and dedicated to social media consulting, it's worth the risk: "If you have experience managing social campaigns and you're considering making the leap to owning your own business, I can't begin to recommend it enough. For the right person, the benefits are limitless."

6. Overdeliver in the beginning.

Keith Kakadia says -- "My last piece of advice would be to overdeliver in the beginning as you start to build your brand."

"You need an army of evangelists for you and there is no better way of accomplishing that besides overdelivering for all your clients and making them feel as if they are your only client."

While you're ultimately in-control of what packages you offer and at what price, consider going the extra mile early on -- once clients' begin seeing an increase in traffic and engagement from your services, they'll be more willing to recommend you to another colleague or business, which is critical for your long-term success. Additionally, try including customer testimonials or reviews on your website to demonstrate your legitimacy.

Typical social media consulting/freelance rates 2019

  • A consultant with 0-3 years experience and a limited portfolio will likely want to start charging between $15-$50 per hour, depending on the project scope and type of client.
  • After three years, you can charge between $50 and $100 per hour.
  • Once you're an advanced consultant with an impressive portfolio, you can charge upwards of $120+ per hour.
  • Social media consultants can charge anywhere from $15-$250+ an hour, so it's important you keep in mind your prior work experience, the scope of the project, and the type of client when deciding your rate.

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How To Become a Social Media Consultant: Expert Tips and Tricks

Ready to turn your social media skills into a consulting career? We’ll teach you everything you need to become a social media consultant.

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Table of Contents

As the expectations have grown for businesses to have a solid social media presence, so has the demand for social media consultants.

Do you have a passion for digital communication? What about a keen understanding of social media platforms? Want to help others get the most out of their online marketing strategy? Then becoming a social media consultant might be the perfect avenue for you.

But what does it take to become a successful social media marketing consultant? Aside from a passion for the craft, you’ll need some experience. Once you have that, it’s easy to get started. Below, we’ll explain the five key steps to becoming a social media consultant.

Bonus: Our free social media manager career toolkit includes resume, cover letter, and portfolio templates, along with a complete guide to social media job descriptions and frequently asked interview questions. You got this!

What is a social media consultant, and what do they do?

Social media consultants provide social media expertise to businesses and clients. Consultants offer advice and recommendations to help clients build and execute their social media strategies and reach their business goals.

Social media consulting work is flexible and can be done anywhere with a reliable Wi-Fi connection. Social marketing consultants may work full-time with one client on a project, juggle many clients and contracts at a time, or do it as a side hustle on top of a full-time job.

A social media consultant’s “job description” may include a variety of skills, like:

  • Creating evergreen social media strategies
  • Helping launch a new social media channel
  • Conducting social media research
  • Doing social media audits
  • Setting up social listening dashboards
  • Planning social media campaigns
  • Providing comprehensive analytics reports
  • Facilitating social media training sessions and workshops

The keyword in many of the points above is “strategy.” Social media consultants are usually more experienced and senior in their careers than freelance social media managers . Consultants also tend to work more on strategy rather than execution and content creation.

digital marketing consulting services

An example of the services offered by Josh Klemons , a social media consultant based in Wisconsin, USA.

The skills you’ll need to become a social media consultant

While the flexibility and freedom of being a social media consultant can seem very attractive, it may not be a fit for everyone.

First, there are a bunch of consulting-specific skills required on top of social media management skills :

  • Content creation. Although consultants may not have to create content for clients, they should still have skills in design and copywriting. You’ll need to be able to edit posts for clients and create mockups to illustrate your proposals.
  • Public speaking and sales. Pitching is a crucial step in securing new clients. You must be comfortable selling yourself and your services, often in front of executives. Once you land the client, you’ll often present proposals to them as part of your consulting work.
  • Project management. As a business owner and team of one, you are responsible for everything. That includes managing invoices, tracking expenses, filing taxes, communicating with clients, and arranging contracts. And this is all on top of actual social media consulting work.
  • Client relationship management. “One thing I do: Reply to emails quickly. Doing this has set me apart from so many others in the field. Prospective clients often say they reached out to several people, and I was the only one to respond” – Josh Klemons
  • Advanced analytics & reporting. Clients can do day-to-day reporting, but they often rely on consultants for more advanced, in-depth analyses and reports. For example, social intelligence consultant Ben K. Ellis specializes in social intelligence: “I deliver research and data stories to answer anything from ‘what are the latest trends in our sector and how can we leverage them?’ to ‘what are the whitespace opportunities we could use and to improve our product positioning?’”

social media consultant business plan

Download our Social Media Career Report for stats on social media manager salaries, benefits, job satisfaction, mental health, and more.

Why you should (or shouldn’t) become a social media consultant

Here are some of the pros, as shared by social media consultants themselves:

“Social media is always changing, so you are always in demand!” – Jennifer Kolbuc, Mountain Top Consulting ( @socialwithjen )

“Flexibility. Much of the work can be done remotely and in the hours that suit you best. For example, if you do your best work after 9 pm, that’s fine as long as you produce & deliver high-quality content on time!” – Shelly Terry, founder of Sheldon Social

“The variety of work! Every day is different. I get to use various skills, platforms are constantly changing, and I get to work with people across many industries. I’m always learning, honing my existing skills, and gaining new ones.” – Sara Hodge , social & digital consultant

And some of the downsides:

“The never-ending sales process. Even though I had a stable client base, this did not mean the work was constant. To get new clients or upsell the old ones, you have to be constantly pitching.” – Mark Valasik, CMO at Kontentino

“Since social media is open 24/7, you need to be prepared to work at unsociable hours.” – Justine Maher , marketing strategist

“It can be hard to take time to disconnect and stay offline when you need to.” – Jennifer Kolbuc

Still excited about becoming a social media consultant? Keep reading to find out the five steps to get there.

How to become a social media consultant in 5 steps

1. get experience.

Before you can build a viable business as a social media consultant, you’ll need some experience. That means doing social media marketing for clients or companies, not just your pet’s social media account. Experience will give you the confidence to answer any client’s needs and price your services accordingly.

If you don’t have experience yet, have no fear. Check out our guide to getting started as a social media manager first.

2. Brush up on your skills + toolkit

We’ve already covered the fundamental skills and knowledge required to be an excellent social media consultant. If you reviewed the list and found any gaps, now is the time to brush up and fill them. One thing that may help you build your authority is to get certified, such as through Hootsuite Academy .

Next, you should identify a way to stay up-to-date on social media trends and updates. If you’re transitioning from working as a social media manager to being a consultant, you’ll spend less time in the day-to-day work noticing trends and what’s working. So, you should find other ways to stay educated about the social media industry. The Hootsuite blog is a good place to start!

Lastly, you should build your toolkit as a social media consultant. Often, clients will ask you for recommendations on what tools to use. You should be familiar with the main categories of social media tools, including scheduling, analytics, listening, and engagement tools.

You should also know your preferred tools to work with. Here’s a complete list of social media marketing tools to get you started.

3. Build a portfolio

Before pitching yourself to potential clients, you’ll need a portfolio to showcase your past work and skills.

If you’ve only worked in full-time corporate positions, you can use examples from those roles. Just be sure you focus on the results you directly contributed to.

The format doesn’t matter for most clients, as long as the content makes them confident in your expertise. Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • Share your LinkedIn profile . Ideally, this should have endorsements and links to work samples under each position.
  • Create a PDF portfolio . If design isn’t your strong suit, we recommend using Canva .
  • Share a Google Drive folder or build a website with past strategy decks and work samples.

Tip: Create a master version of your portfolio containing all your work examples and case studies. Then, tailor it for each new client pitch by removing any examples irrelevant to their industry or business model.

portfolio example testimonials and featured clients

A snapshot of Jennifer Kolbuc ’s social media consulting portfolio

4. Establish your rates

One of the best and worst parts of being a social media consultant is that you have complete control over pricing your services. On the one hand, setting your rates can be one of the most challenging mental parts of being a consultant. On the other hand, no one is limiting how much you can earn (unlike a day job).

Before finding clients, you should have your rates in mind. We’ll share some benchmarks and more detailed guidance on determining them below.

5. Find clients

Now that you’ve built your skillset, toolkit, portfolio, and rate card, it’s time for the most crucial step: finding clients.

I won’t sugarcoat it — landing clients and consulting opportunities is grueling. And unfortunately, it’s a process that never ends once you become a consultant.

Here are tips and sources that have worked for me, as well as advice from other consultants:

  • Facebook & Slack groups. Many Slack and Facebook groups have channels or tags for “jobs” where members can post consulting opportunities. I’ve found almost all my consulting gigs through these types of groups.
  • Word of mouth & referrals. “85% of the clients I work with come from previous agency relationships or referrals.” – Christoph Schachner, social media consultant
  • Personal branding. “Always put yourself out there for podcasts, workshops, and events.” – Jennifer Kolbuc. “Most of my clients found me through my online writing or speaking at conferences.” – Ben K. Ellis
  • Mentorship. “Many of my clients come from mentoring on platforms like Growthmentor.” – Christoph Schachner
  • Audience-building and email marketing. “Build an email list! I’ve spent two years working hard to build an email list that regularly brings in sales and new clients.” – Jennifer Kolbuc

How to charge for social media consulting services

Deciding what to charge is one of the most challenging aspects of being a social media consultant.

Not only is it difficult to know what you should charge, but also to know what clients are willing to pay, what other consultants are charging, and what value you’re giving to clients.

Take a deep breath — we’re here to help. First, let’s start with the different ways that consultants can charge:

  • Hourly. Consultant tracks their hours and bills the client based on total hours multiplied by their hourly rate. Best if a client’s needs are unpredictable or the scope of work is unknown. However, this will require more admin work for the consultant (time tracking, invoicing).
  • Retainer (monthly). Consultant quotes a fixed monthly rate to cover all work required by the client each month. Best for long-term projects or clients that need the same support on a recurring basis.
  • Project-based. Consultant charges a fixed one-time fee. Best for projects that have a clear set of tasks and a definite start and end date.

Benchmark rates for social media consulting services in 2023

We surveyed ten consultants to identify benchmarks for freelance social media consultant rates in 2023. The rates ranged from $30 to $200 per hour , varying based on the consultant (years of experience, relevant expertise), the client (size of the company, budget), and work scope (length of project, number of services required, hours required).

With that said, many consultants don’t charge by the hour — most prefer monthly retainers or fixed project-based fees.

Ben K. Ellis shared this example: “If you provide benchmarking reports, consider the number of hours it typically takes you to produce these reports and the skill set and tools needed. Then, pick a price point that honors the value the project provides to your client’s business.”

Remember that as a freelancer, your rate needs to cover your overhead costs (business registration, taxes, supplies & expenses, laptop, software & tool subscriptions, etc.), and the lack of stability of a permanent contract and benefits.

Tip: Once you set your rates, they shouldn’t stay the same over time. Jennifer Kolbuc explains: “With my first clients, I was very affordable (undercharging) so that I could build up a client list. Now that I have 15+ years of experience, I charge more.”

5 tips and best practices from real social media consultants

Find your community.

Ben K. Ellis recommends that you find a community of fellow consultants.

“Moving from a job with colleagues to a consulting role can be a lonely experience. I’ve found a community on amazing platforms like The Dots , Social Intelligence Lab , and Contra , engaging with and learning from other consultants and sharing tips, answering questions, and helping each other.”

Convey the long-term value of social

“Trends come and go, but a good strategy works much longer. Don’t sell your clients on ‘more followers.’ Sell them on the long-term vision of building a community. Social media is not about short-term success, it’s about building something that will benefit your business long-term.” – Jennifer Kolbuc

Focus on business results, not vanity metrics

Christoph Schachner’s best tip is to focus on bottom-line results, not followers or engagement metrics.

“You need to define how you add value to the business. Not everything is 100% traceable or will have an immediate impact. But using a combination of self-reported attribution, qualitative metrics, and correlated revenue will earn you trust and clients.”

Be a social media scientist

Shelly Terry emphasizes the value of experimentation.

“You should always be testing, theorizing what tactics will deliver the strategy you’re working on, and repeating what works until it doesn’t! Everything constantly changes in the social landscape, and we must be adaptive.”

Put everything in writing

“EVERYTHING needs to be in a contract. Your scope of work, a buffer for out-of-scope work you’re willing to add for free, and your hourly rate for extra work beyond that. Doing this will help you to negotiate work you haven’t agreed on or raise prices.” – Mark Valasik

Frequently asked questions about social media consultants

What does a social media consultant do.

Social media consultants provide businesses with advice and guidance to help them build and execute their social media strategy.

How much do social media consultants charge?

Social media consultants can charge a range based on various factors, such as their experience, the scope of the work, the size of the client, the project’s length, and more. They may charge by the hour, a monthly retainer, or a fixed fee for the whole project.

How can I be a good social media consultant?

Being a good social media consultant comes down to putting your client first. You should always consider their business priorities when providing recommendations and focus on helping them achieve their business objectives through social media.

What’s the difference between a social media consultant and a freelance social media manager?

The main difference is seniority. Consultants are more experienced, specialized and often charge higher rates than social media freelancers. Both roles provide advice and services to help businesses achieve their objectives through social media.

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Laura Wong is a Canadian social media strategist based in Amsterdam. She is the founder of SchoolofSocial.io, an online platform that helps anyone land their dream social media job. Besides social media, Laura is passionate about travel, photography, entrepreneurship, and finding the best bubble tea in every city she visits.

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Table of Contents

There is no doubt that social media is one of the most powerful marketing tools available today. But knowing how to use it effectively can be a challenge for businesses of all sizes. If you’re a whiz with social media and want to help others harness its power, starting a social media consulting business could be the perfect option.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started. We’ll cover setting up your business, determining your services, and building your client base. So whether you’re just getting started or are looking for ways to take your business to the next level, read on for all the info you need.

social media consulting

1. Master The Skill

The first step to starting a social media consulting business is to ensure that you have the necessary skills. This means being up-to-date on all the latest trends and platforms and knowing how to use them for business purposes effectively.

Also, you must be able to identify social media strategy and goals to create content that aligns with those goals. Furthermore, you must be able to measure the success of your efforts and provide clients with reports detailing your findings.

2. Build Your Portfolio

The next step is to build up your portfolio so that potential clients can see what you’re capable social media manager.

  • Start by creating a blog or website, and populate it with articles and case studies demonstrating your expertise in the field.
  • Then, list your qualifications and experience on well-known job boards and freelancer platforms.
  • Also, actively participate in social media groups and forums so that people are aware of your presence and can get in touch with you quickly.

3. Find Your Target Clients

The next step is to identify your target clients. These are the businesses or individuals you want to work with and who will benefit most from your services.

Start by brainstorming a list of companies or industries that could use social media help to find them. Then, use online tools like LinkedIn and Twitter search to find specific businesses within those industries.

Finally, take some time to research each company to tailor your pitch when reaching out to them.

Find Your Target Clients

4. Make A Plan

Now that you know who your target clients are, it’s time to plan how you’re going to reach them by offering social media consultants’ services.

  • First, create a list of all the platforms and channels you’ll use to market your business.
  • Then, come up with a strategy for each platform or channel. For example, if you’re using LinkedIn, you might create a plan to post articles and join relevant groups.
  • On the other hand, if you’re using Twitter, you might focus on tweeting interesting content and participating in conversations.

5. Set Your Rates

The fifth step is to set your rates. This can be tricky, as you don’t want to charge too much and scare away potential clients, but you also don’t want to charge too little and end up undervaluing your services.

An excellent way to develop a rate is first to calculate your costs.

There are two main types of costs you need to take into account:

  • Direct Costs : These are the costs associated with providing your services, such as software subscriptions and advertising spending.
  • Indirect Costs : These are the costs associated with running your own business, such as office rent and employee salaries.

Then, add a profit margin on top of that to make a reasonable profit. Also, consider offering discounts for long-term contracts or package deals for social media services.

6. Create A Digital Business Card

The next step is to create a digital business card. This is essentially an online version of a traditional business card, and it’s a great way to make sure potential clients can easily find your contact information.

Your digital business card should include your name, title, company name, website URL, email address, and social media profiles. You can also include a headshot and brief bio if you want.

Use Zapped To Create Your vCard

If you want to create a compelling digital business card, there’s no better way to use Zapped . With its simple and easy-to-use interface, you can create a beautiful vCard in minutes without hiring a designer or spending hours learning complex software.

Also, it allows you to customize your card with your branding, colors, and logo. And if you ever need to update your information, you can do so with just a few clicks.

7. Develop A Pitch Deck

The next step is to develop a pitch deck for social media presence. This is a presentation that social media managers can use to quickly and effectively explain their services to potential clients.

Your pitch deck should be around 10 slides depending on the social media platforms, and it should cover topics like your company overview, social media marketing strategies, case studies, and rates.

8. Get Testimonials

Another great way to build credibility and attract new clients is to get testimonials from current or past clients.

A testimonial is essentially a review, and it’s a great way to show potential clients that you’re an expert in your field.

To get testimonials, reach out to your current or past clients and ask if they’d be willing to write a review. If they say yes, thank them and include their testimonial about your social media marketing agency on your website, pitch deck, and social media profiles.

Get Testimonials

9. Get The Word Out

Now that you have everything in place, it’s time to start marketing your social media consultant business. There are several ways you can do this, but some of the most effective include:

  • Creating A Website : This is where you’ll showcase your portfolio and list your services. Ensure clear calls to action so that visitors know how to get in touch with you.
  • Writing Blog Articles : Blogging is a great way to attract attention to your new business and demonstrate your expertise. Try to write at least one article per week and promote your articles on social media and other channels.
  • Guest Posting : Guest posting is great to get exposure on high-traffic websites. Reach out to bloggers and website owners in your industry, and offer to write a guest post for them.

10. Stay Up To Date

The final step is to make sure you stay up to date with the latest trends and developments in social media. This will help you keep your skills sharp, and it will also ensure that you’re able to provide the most up-to-date services to your clients.

One way to stay up to date is to follow industry news sources and influencers on social media. Additionally, attend conferences and webinars, and participate in online courses and forums.

Final Thoughts

That was all about adopting social media management and marketing as a business model. We hope you’ve found it helpful and that you feel ready to start your social media business. Remember, nothing is set in stone. These are just guidelines to help you get started. Feel free to tailor them to fit your unique needs and goals. And most importantly, have fun with it.

Social media is a great way to connect with people and build relationships, so enjoy yourself and let your personality shine through. Are you excited about starting your social media management business? What questions do you still have? Let us know in the comments below, and we’ll be happy to help out.

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But wait, there’s more! Zapped’s platform allows you to customize your NFC business card with videos, animations, and social media links, so you can really show off your brand. Plus, you can easily track who has viewed your card, so you know who to follow up with.

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7+ Social Media Consulting Business Plan Examples – PDF

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Running a business is a huge risk for any aspiring entrepreneur, but when done correctly, it can also be a risk worth taking. With social media being a core platform for various marketing efforts, many social media-savvy individuals have began using the platform as a means of income by becoming social media consultants. You may also see  social media business plan examples .

  • 48+ Plan Examples
  • 17+ Business Plan Examples in PDF

But to become an established social media consultant in the competitive industry, you have to be qualified for the job and have enough time and resources to make your social media consulting business a success. It’s a tough job, but by making the right decisions and building a solid plan, you can lead your business toward a better and brighter future. You may also see engineering consulting business plan examples .

Consulting Business Plan for Social Media Example

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Consulting Business Plan Guide Example

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Sample Consulting Business Plan

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What Does a Consultant Do?

You’ve probably heard about business consultants before. These are people who are hired to share their expertise and knowledge to assist a business in solving problems and achieving goals. Most consultants are simply paid to supplement their current staff in order to save on costs when it comes to hiring a full-time employee. The great thing about consultants is that they have the ability to view the situation from a whole new perspective. They aren’t biased to your company, nor are they exposed to a particular corporate culture or morale. You may also see  food catering business plan examples .

Instead, consultants are there to share their thoughts and understandings about a situation for you to consider. Their expert opinions can mean a lot to a company, especially in cases of internal conflict. Keep in mind that a consultant can also act as a catalyst for change in a situation.

While there are no degree requirements for one to become a consultant, it is necessary for them to possess vast knowledge and experience in a particular field. An impressive track record of past accomplishments would also look good from an employer’s perspective. In addition to your expertise, individuals with a higher level of educational attainment and experience will likely be granted a greater compensation for their services. Some companies even hire former or retired employees as consultants to keep them within the loop despite not being an official member of the workforce anymore. You may also see  strategic action plan examples .

The duties of a consultant can greatly vary depending on the industry in which the individual is a part of, along with their specific field of expertise. Generally, consultants are tasked to improve or fix a particular component of the client’s business. They can sometimes be asked to teach and educate an employee how to manipulate a new software system the consultant might be familiar with, or any other task that could help increase productivity and garner more revenue. You may also see  tutoring business plan examples .

Most business consultants are hired to provide professional advice and make recommendations during critical situations as well. The length for which these services are rendered may vary, depending on the needs of a client and on any additions to the project for which the consultant was hired. Some of the key skills that every consultant must have include logical reasoning, leadership, communication, ingenuity, and the ability to work well with others. You may also see  direct marketing plan examples .

Social Media Consulting Business Plan Example

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Social Media Consulting Business Plan for Startups Example

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How to Become a Social Media Consultant

Now that we’ve established what a consultant does in the world of business, it’s time that we tackle a specific field that we all know about: social media. Though social media may seem like a familiar matter to deal with, there’s nothing easy about being a consultant, regardless of your field of expertise. You may also see  hotel operational business plan examples .

1. Benefits

Being a consultant also means you’re self-employed. You can decide on your work schedule, workload, and wages, all with the approval of a potential client. You can even be in another continent but still deliver the same services without having to answer to your boss. Many consultants also work from anywhere in the world with globally-based clients, which is a plus for consultants hoping to extend their services to a wider market. This appeals to those who wish to work flexibly for personal reasons. You may also see  restaurant project plan examples .

But owning your own business also means that you’re constantly learning and evolving through exposure to different clients and cases. Though this may be a challenge for most individuals, it’s also an ongoing professional development you won’t find anywhere else. This way, you can decide where you want your career to move toward.

2. Disadvantages

As much as we want to focus on the good stuff, we also have to be aware of the disadvantages that come with being your own boss. The life of an entrepreneur isn’t all sunshine and butterflies, as there’s more to it than working in pajamas all day and traveling whenever you feel like it. You have to remember that with great power comes great responsibility, so working as a consultant doesn’t exactly exempt you from the ugly truth of the corporate world.

Unless you have the funds necessary to outsource, you’re responsible for handling everything from accounting, billing, and tax payments to marketing, pitching, and content development, all of which are essential to keep your business running. You may also see  security consulting business plan examples .

An undervalued skill set that not many people seem to emphasize is self-motivation. There will always be slow days, and those are the worst days to deal with. But at the end of the day, the key to operating a successful consulting business is to remain committed and dedicated toward your main company goal. It won’t be easy, but the results will definitely be worth the effort. You may also see  lawn care business plan examples .

Since we’ve already covered the basics of running a consulting business, and your mind still hasn’t changed, maybe becoming a social media consultant is the job for you.

5 Ways to Become a Successful Social Media Consultant

1. do your homework..

Like at the beginning of any other business, you need to do your research before you embark in a potential venture. Study your industry and client base. This will help you develop a business plan that centers on your purpose and ideal market. You can conduct a research on your potential competitors through various platforms such as LinkedIn and Google searches. This will provide you with a clearer understanding of your client’s needs, as well as the strategies that you can invest on.

2. Get close with clients.

The transition from your day job to becoming a full-time consultant is often slow and painful. You wouldn’t know where to start, or if it’s even worth the time and effort. But if you want to test it out despite the uncertainty that consumes you, perhaps you can start out slow with one or two clients. This way, you can fully analyze each situation carefully without being overwhelmed by other duties. You wouldn’t want to quit your current job yet, either, as this will serve as a safety net to keep you on your feet while you’re still trying to figure out how things should go. You may also see  remodeling business plan examples .

If you don’t know anyone who could refer you to their bosses, you can browse through various websites to make a pitch with potential clients. Networking can also do wonders for you by building formal relationships with professionals from different fields and industries. You’re likely to spend most of your time as a consultant performing self-promotional efforts and establishing your expertise.

3. Set up a workstation.

There’s more to running a business than facing a computer for at least eight hours a day. You still need certain business processes and workflows to keep operations intact. When the time is right, you have to find the right people or software to handle client appointments, invoices, and even tax payments. Otherwise, running a one-man show can lead to a series of complications. You may also see  convenience store business plan examples .

The five steps of a good client intake process involves prospecting, proposal, contract, on-boarding, and invoicing. Using a business proposal to sell your services to prospects can help you establish professionalism and credibility in the marketplace. Even more so with a business contract, as this can help you develop a solid bond with clients that’s built on trust and understanding. You may also see  one-page marketing plan examples .

4. Decide between a niche or general expertise.

As a social media consultant, you have to decide between opening your services to whoever asks for it, or to a limited client base. Keep in mind that the former can be a lot more challenging than the latter, as it does require an in-depth knowledge on a particular field, even if it goes beyond your expertise. There are a few pros and cons for each, so be sure to weigh them down carefully. You may also see  business plan profit and loss template examples .

After which, you have to focus on your identity. What can you do to stand out from those who are offering the same services? A unique identity will keep you on top of your game for prospects to recognize.

5. Choose your products and services.

A social media consultant is capable of many things. You have to be flexible with your job, as you’re likely to do more than you would expect. Fortunately, you have several choices on your offerings, which include social media audit, training, coaching sessions or retainers, social media manager, account creation and setup, as well as a social media strategy session. Offering a diverse mix of products and services can help widen your income stream for better business results. But you also have to be careful about having one too many offers, as you wouldn’t want your tasks to be all over the place. The last thing you would want to do is to scramble around for solutions to problems you’re absolutely clueless about. You may also see  compliance strategic plan examples .

Once you have decided on your products and services, setting fees would be another stressful task to accomplish. It’s best to do your research for this to arrive at a more informed (and reasonable) decision for your business and its clients.

Social Media Consulting Business Plan Guidelines Example

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Social Media Consulting Business Plan Template

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Starting a Consulting Business

Launching a consulting business, or any business for that matter, can be extremely challenging for any inexperienced entrepreneur. You might be new to the scene, and after contemplating whether or not becoming a consultant is a wise career move, you took the leap anyway and found yourself here, a bit confused about what to do and where to begin. This is a common problem that has left many start-up owners scratching their heads in confusion. You may also see  restaurant operational plan examples .

But it doesn’t have to be that way for too long. When starting a consulting business, take note of the following steps:

1. Credibility

There’s no point in questioning this, because it’s pretty obvious that without credibility, nobody would want to hire you in the first place. But establishing credibility in the market is quite tricky, especially without prior experience in the craft. The least you could do is to showcase your online brand in order to build a social media presence that potential clients will notice. You can also begin writing your own e-books to showcase your knowledge about social media marketing , which is essential as a consultant, for clients to recognize.

2. Experience

Along with credibility, any sort of experience associated with social media can serve as a foundation for your business. It’s best to start out small by charging a minimum fee to people within your network who might be seeking for your services. This will help you gain a good level of experience before you venture out to bigger projects. There are also a number of nonprofit organizations that would greatly appreciate your contributions. You may also see  social media business plan examples .

3. Online Branding

The web is a vast universe filled with many wonders waiting to be discovered. Since social media marketing is all about being recognized online, you need to make sure your presence is made known in a particular platform. Set up an account in various networks, such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and Twitter, and you can begin shaping your online brand with the help of various blog posts, articles, illustrations, and videos.

It’s so easy to go on social media and share everyone else’s content. But when you’re utilizing social media to build your own business, creating your own unique and insightful content should be a top priority. This is where you can prove yourself through your works, without having to make a direct pitch to your audience. Contributing your own content to the online world can work wonders for your business, with the help of a blog post, an e-book, or a regular newsletter sent to prospective clients. You may also see  real estate investor marketing plan examples .

5. Connections

In business, it’s common for people to buy from people they know, or through recommendations from trusted friends via referral marketing. While social media might be a bit new to the scene, the same business rules still apply. The key is to engage with others on various social media channels to expand your network to its full potential. Your online and offline relationships will help you strike better deals with clients who might already possess a certain level of trust toward you. If you’re lucky, these deals would come locally, and it won’t be long until you could finally widen your network to the national or global market. You may also see  waste management plan examples .

6. Learn from clients

Assuming you have followed the steps listed above, you’re sure to meet someone who might be interested in what you have to offer. See what your customers need and understand their pain. This will help you construct the perfect solutions to their problems. You may also see  work action plan examples .

And there you have it! Developing a successful social media consulting business is a grueling process that requires patience and perseverance. So if you ever find yourself in need of a business plan to get started, our templates and examples are sure to come in handy!

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Social Media Marketing Business Plan Template

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Table of Contents

Social media marketing business plan.

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their social media marketing businesses. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a social media marketing business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What Is a Social Media Marketing Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your social media marketing agency as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Social Media Marketing Business Plan

If you’re looking to start a social media marketing business or grow your existing company, you need a business plan. A social media marketing business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your business in order to improve your chances of success. Your business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your social media marketing agency grows and changes.

Funding Sources for Social Media Marketing Agencies

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a social media marketing business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for social media marketing agencies.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for a social media marketing agency.

If you want to start a business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. Below we detail what should be included in each section of your own social media marketing business plan:

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of social media marketing business you are operating and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a social media marketing business that you would like to grow, or are you operating social media marketing in multiple markets?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the social media marketing industry. Discuss the type of social media marketing business you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial plan.  

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of social media marketing business you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types of social media marketing businesses, or a full-service agency:

  • Paid Ads : this type of marketing business focuses on creating social media ads and optimizing social media ad campaigns. A social media marketing agency may specialize in ads for one platform in particular or across all platforms.
  • Content: this type of business focuses on creating content, either for specific platforms or across all platforms.
  • Strategy: this type of marketing is where campaigns are created around specific goals that help businesses or individuals tailor where and how to best achieve results that will help them succeed.

In addition to explaining the type of social media marketing business you will operate, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

  • When and why did you start the business?
  • What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of customers served, number of positive reviews, total campaigns, etc.
  • Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the social media marketing industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the social media marketing industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy, particularly if your research identifies market trends.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your social media marketing business plan:

  • How big is the social media marketing industry (in dollars)?
  • Is the market declining or increasing?
  • Who are the key competitors in the market?
  • Who are the key suppliers in the market?
  • What trends are affecting the industry?
  • What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
  • What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your social media marketing business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: corporations, small business owners, nonprofits and individuals. Customers may also be segmented by industry, such as healthcare, technology, beauty, restaurants, music, B2B, and more.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of marketing business you operate. Clearly, individuals in the music industry would respond to different marketing promotions than corporations in the healthcare industry, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, include a discussion of the ages, genders, locations and income levels of the customers you seek to serve. Only select social media marketing agencies primarily serve customers living in their same city or town. However, if your niche is to provide social media services to local businesses, such demographic information is easy to find on government websites.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.  

With Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other social media marketing agencies.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes digital freelance platforms such as Upwork and Fiverr. You need to mention such competition as well.

With regards to direct competition, you want to describe the other businesses with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will have a similar niche audience.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

  • What types of customers do they serve?
  • What types of social media services do they provide?
  • What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
  • What are they good at?
  • What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

  • Will you provide better social media strategy, content and ad services?
  • Will you provide services that your competitors don’t offer?
  • Will you provide better customer service?
  • Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a social media marketing business, your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of social media marketing agency that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to social media marketing, will you provide web design services, copywriting or any other services?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your agency. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your business located in a busy professional district (good if targeting local businesses), or is it fully remote (good if targeting clients that aren’t place-specific). Discuss how your location might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

  • Advertising in local papers and magazines
  • Reaching out to local websites
  • Social media marketing
  • Local radio advertising

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your business, including discovery calls, onboarding new clients, attending campaign meetings, managing employees and working on campaigns.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to take on your 10th client, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your social media marketing business into a new market.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your social media marketing business’ ability to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing social media marketing businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act like mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing social media marketing agencies or successfully running small businesses.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statements.

Income Statement : an income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you gain one new client per month or per quarter? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets : Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your social media marketing business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement : Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a social media marketing business:

  • Location build-out including design fees, construction, etc. (if there will be a physical location)
  • Cost of equipment and supplies (including hardware and software)
  • Payroll or salaries paid to staff
  • Business insurance
  • Taxes and permits
  • Legal expenses

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your office location lease or outlines of campaigns you are currently working on.   Summary Putting together a business plan for your social media marketing business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will really understand the social media marketing industry, your competition, and your customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful social media marketing business.  

Social Media Marketing Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my social media marketing business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your Social Media Marketing Business Plan.

Where Can I Download a Social Media Management Business Plan PDF?

You can download our Social Media Management business plan PDF  here. This is a business plan template you can use in PDF format.

What is the Goal of a Business Plan's Executive Summary?

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of social media marketing business you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have a social media marketing business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of social media marketing businesses?

  OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.

Click here to see how Growthink’s professional business plan consulting services can create your business plan for you.   Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

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Social Media Marketing Business Plan

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If you are planning to start a new social media marketing or digital marketing company, the first thing you will need is a business plan. Use our sample social media marketing business plan created using Upmetrics business plan software to start writing your business plan in no time.

Before you start writing your business plan for your new social media marketing agency, spend as much time as you can reading through some examples of  advertising and marketing-related business plans.

Reading sample business plans will give you a good idea of what you’re aiming for, and also it will show you the different sections that different entrepreneurs include and the language they use to write about themselves and their business plans.

We have created this sample Social Media Marketing Business Plan for you to get a good idea about what a perfect social media marketing business plan should look like and what details you will need to include in your stunning business plan.

Social Media Marketing Business Plan Outline

This is the standard social media marketing business plan outline which will cover all important sections that you should include in your business plan.

  • The Business
  • 3 Year profit forecast
  • Company Owner
  • Why the business is being started?
  • Startup cost
  • Startup Requirements
  • Products and services
  • Market Trends
  • Marketing Share
  • Institutions & Organizations
  • Media & Celebrities
  • Business Target
  • Product Pricing
  • Competitive Analysis
  • Sales Monthly
  • Sales Yearly
  • Sales Forecast
  • Company Staff
  • Average Salary of Employees
  • Important Assumptions
  • Brake-even Analysis
  • Profit Yearly
  • Gross Margin Yearly
  • Projected Cash Flow
  • Projected Balance Sheet
  • Business Ratios

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social media consultant business plan

After getting started with Upmetrics , you can copy this sample business plan into your business plan and modify the required information and download your social media marketing business plan pdf or doc file. It’s the fastest and easiest way to start writing your business plan.

Download a sample social media marketing business plan

Need help writing your business plan from scratch? Here you go;  download our free social media marketing business plan pdf  to start.

It’s a modern business plan template specifically designed for your house-flipping business. Use the example business plan as a guide for writing your own.

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How to Start a Social Media Consulting Business in 2024

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As the need to leverage the power of digital marketing continues to rise, the demand for social media consultants is increasing. Social media marketing is one type of content marketing that can come with great returns when done right. Several social media consulting businesses have sprouted over the years to make use of this growing trend.

If you are looking to start your own social media consulting business, then you need to take the time to do detailed market research to see if this is the right form of business for you. While you might be fine as a social media consultant freelancer, running a business is an entirely different story.

To help you jumpstart your social media consulting business, we have compiled 13 of the best and snackable steps that you need to follow to ensure a successful launch of your social media marketing business.

Who is a social media consultant?

A social media consultant is a prowess in the field of social media management and marketing.

They are responsible for helping businesses and brands in effecting their social media strategy so that they can reach a wider social audience, increase engagement, boost brands awareness and drive traffic to business websites as well as sales.

Staffing a complete in-house social media team is an expensive affair, and so small scale and medium businesses may not afford this addition. Luckily, outsourcing social media consultancy services has never been this easier, with the advent of marketplaces such as Fiverr , Upwork, iHire, etc.

While responsibilities of a social media consultant tend to vary from one firm to another, they are always charged with two main tasks:

  • Increase the social media presence of their clients
  • Grow traffic to their client’s social media accounts

How to Become a Social Media Consultant

Let’s now dive in and explore these steps one by one.

1: Acquire necessary social media consulting skills

As a consultant, your social media clients view you as an expert in all things social media. You can only provide value if you’ve got it within you. Take time to learn everything there is in social media marketing. For instance, you need to:

  • Know how to set up various social media accounts and pages including Whatsapp for Business
  • Keep up with the ever-changing algorithms that affect the ranking of posts on social media
  • Have an understanding of social media branding
  • Have an ability to find, portray and maintain the brand’s voice
  • Have an operational understanding of how to make social media posts more effective across various social networks
  • Know the best posting times for various social networks
  • Have the ability to run social media ads e.g. Facebook ads, Instagram Ads, Twitter Ads, etc.
  • Ability to comprehend and break down social metrics in a way that they can be turned into useful information that will help a brand affect its social media strategy.
  • Possess technical know-how of working with various social media schedulers and analytic tools as well as collaboration tools such as Slack and Trello.

There are various guides online that can help you acquire the skills above. If unsure, head over to Udemy and you will find a comprehensive course on almost any topic at discounted prices.

Find Dozens of Social Media Marketing Courses

Skillshare gives you 30 Days of Free Access to 12000+ classes if you sign up using my link.

More Resources? Social Media Management School offers extensive social media management training that will prepare you accordingly.

2: Network as early as you can.

Believe it or not, it’s hard to break through a market where you barely know anyone. Networking takes time, so you need to start making real connections as early as you can.

The best places to meet awesome people who share in your line of thoughts are meetups that are specific to your niche. Visit Meetup.com and search for relevant meetups such as social media marketing, digital marketing, coaching, consulting businesses, etc. Find those near your area and mark your calendar.

Twitter chats can also help you meet some awesome people who are into what you are doing.

3: Start saving for your social media business.

Starting any business requires an investment. Even if your consulting is purely online, you still need living expenses before you can close a client or two.

Saving up for at least three to six months of living expenses will not only save you from some stress of paying your bills when not having booked a client the entire month but also prevent you from taking on bad clients or selling yourself short just to get by.

If you don’t want to bootstrap your own business, then you can work on your own business plan and start soliciting funds from family, investors, and banks to help you with the initial marketing and branding costs that can quite quickly add up and fall out of control. There are various start-up business loans options that you can leverage as well

4: Timing is everything.

When it comes to deciding when, and how to create your own social media consulting business, you need to be as calculative as possible.

You typically want to set out to start your consulting business when you have saved a fair amount of money, done a bit of networking, and have some local businesses in mind that you want to give your first shot.

It’s okay to taste the waters before diving in. You don’t want to quit your job before you are certain that social media consulting is something you want to pursue, and having your facts right.

You can start off as a freelance social media consultant while still keeping your day job. This allows you to keep your job if your business doesn’t pick up, continue saving as well as grow your side hustle on the side before you can fully commit to turning it into a full-time business.

5: Creating an engaging Instagram account.

If you are a general social media consultant, then there are three main social networks that you need to hone your skills on: Facebook pages, Instagram and Twitter. Instagram is big for branding yourself.

You want to focus on growing a loyal audience rather than amassing thousands of followers who will not be interested in what you are or what you do. Share tips relevant to your profession such as social media tips, PPC, etc.

You want to sprinkle a bit of your personality as well so as to have a fully engaging account with a real person on the other end of the platform.

Use these Instagram Marketing Tips to grow your audience

6: Build a compelling portfolio

Booking new clients requires a level of trust. Your portfolio is what will convince your prospects to go ahead and contact you or proceed to your competitors.

Be creative when it comes to displaying your case studies and asking for testimonials. Custom design your portfolio single pages with branding that pops out.

Detailed testimonials do exceedingly well than generic ones. If you offer awesome work, your clients will give honest reviews about your services.

7: Find Local Businesses as your first clients

Finding your first social media clients is perhaps the real step in propelling your business forward. Local businesses can help you build a great portfolio. Identify local businesses that can benefit from your businesses and offer them discounted pricing.

Every client is gold, but your first clients are a rarer form of jewel, and you should treat them as such. Amaze, no, dazzle them and they will write raving testimonials, get you referrals, etc.

The goal of your first clients is not to make you profitable, but to build your portfolio so that you can organically acquire high-end long-term clients. The business of consulting requires a good deal of patience, but it all pays off in the long run.

8: Establish your rates

Now that you have acquired your first clients and built an engaging portfolio, it’s time to establish your standard rates.

Depending on your expertise and the level of value that your business brings to your clients you can charge anywhere between $50 and $100 per hour as a freelance consultant. You can also come up with monthly packages that can be customized to include additional services at an extra cost.

You want to be cautious when it comes to pricing your social media services packages as wrong pricing can break your business’ credibility.

9. Develop your business processes.

Running a full-service social media consulting business is a huge task. By grouping tasks together and organizing a workflow, you make it way easier.

Your processes could include pitching, on-boarding, consultation, monitoring, analysis, reporting, writing case studies, etc. Use tools such as Slack or Trello to visualize these processes and keep track of every stage.

10: Set up a convenient workstation.

While you can get away from juggling coffee shops, study areas, and living rooms as a freelance social media consultant, you will be forced to have a steady workstation as your business unfolds into a full-suite enterprise with a dozen clients or two.

You may want to transform one of your rooms into a home office or rent an office if you can afford it, especially if your team has grown to four and above employees who do not work remotely.

Staying organized is the key to being more productive in business

11: Decide if it’s necessary for you to niche down:

Nicheing can help you wade through competition. For a social media consulting business, you can choose to only work with clients in particular industries e.g., SaaS, Real estate, Law firms, etc.

Another way you can niche is the types of social media services that you choose to offer. You can see yourself as a generalist, data analyst, community manager, or content marketer. This will affect the types of service that you get to offer, thus the clients that you get to serve.

Some of the social media services that you can offer include

  • Training for specific social networks
  • Coaching sessions
  • Social media accounts audit
  • Social media management
  • Account creation and set-up
  • Social media strategy sessions
  • Social media graphics

12: Hire a team/ Outsourcing

To make your work easier, you need to streamline your processes. Different processes should have specific people in charge. This way you will get a lot more done, deliver better results, and wow your clients.

However, hiring a full in-house team comes with a cost and thus may not be a smart move when you are starting off. A better alternative is to find freelancers who you can outsource work and pay them per project.

Make real connections with your remote workers as they will have a major role in the success of your business. Some of the tasks that you can outsource could include market research, graphic design, ghostwriting , scheduling posts, etc.

Find great freelancers to outsource your tasks to on the Fiverr Platform

13: Embrace a tiered approach

The needs of your clients will be diverse and so your packages should be designed in such a way that they allow your clients to customize their services. Give your clients the ability to add more services at specific additional costs. This way you will be a one-stop for all their social media marketing needs

What do you think of these steps to starting your own social media consulting business? Let us know in the comments section below

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Mysson

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  • Business Ideas
  • January 19, 2023

2 Responses

It’s important to note that starting a business like this will be a long-term effort, but points like the ones you detailed here help the process along. Starting early, especially on a social media standpoint, goes a long way. Establishing a presence on not just Instagram but Facebook, Twitter, and other platforms will help once the business starts moving.

That’s very true Rob. You want to think long term from day one and align your marketing strategy accordingly.

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Social Media Planning

Creating a 30-Day Social Media Plan

Reading time  19 minutes

Published on  September 29, 2022

Table of Contents

  • Setting realistic social marketing goals to align with your overall business goals
  • Determining how you will measure the success of your social marketing efforts
  • Integrating emerging trends and best practices into your strategy and content development

This 30-day social media plan template is designed to help you re-invent your social media management strategy so that what you share aligns with the interests of your community and contributes to overall business value.

You will learn how to:

  • Create an effective social strategy that aligns with audience interest
  • Diversify your content and build a robust content calendar
  • Determine business value driven by social

Use the social media plan template below to track your progress as you work through the plan. By completing just one task each day for the next 30 days, you can fully transform your social marketing strategy.

An at-a-glance calendar showing each step of the 30-day social media plan.

Week 1: Establish your goals and define your metrics

Day 1: establish goals for social.

Establishing clear social media goals is the first step toward transforming your strategy . Determine exactly what you want social to achieve. Here are several examples of goals you might consider:

  • Drive website traffic
  • Raise brand awareness
  • Boost brand engagement
  • Generate new leads
  • Nurture leads
  • Build a community around your business
  • Establish authority and industry expertise
  • Improve customer support
  • Shift brand sentiment

The objective here is to give purpose to your social efforts. Once you’ve established your social goals, the content you produce and share should continually support those goals.

There are several methods to help you write out specific social media goals, including the Objectives and Key Results (OKR) method.

The OKR method asks you to set a broad objective statement and list out key results that describe what successfully achieving that objective looks like. Here’s an example of a broad objective statement supported by clear, result metrics that define meeting the objective.

A table explaining the OKR goal framework.

According to this example, if your objective is to boost brand engagement, you must increase the number of likes, shares, mentions and comments by 20% by the end of the fourth quarter.

Day 2: Define your success metrics

How are you going to define the success of your social efforts? Decide which metrics will provide the right data to determine whether or not social is supporting your business goals.

As you identify your success metrics (e.g. organic mentions, share of voice or conversions), set clear standards for your social campaigns so that you know when you achieve success. If you are tracking audience engagement, what exactly do you consider successful engagement rates for your social content?

Depending on the type of content you produce, where you share and the goals you set for your social marketing efforts, the metrics you track will change.

If you’re at a loss for the goals your team should set, use the Social Media Metrics Map to assess options for owned, earned and paid social.

Day 3: List out your challenges

The task is simple: Make a list of the challenges you face when it comes to social media marketing. Think of any barriers that are keeping your social content from making its biggest impact.

As you list out your challenges, write out simple explanations of how these barriers are impacting your marketing efforts or overall business success. Here are a couple of examples to help you get started.

Challenge 1:

Although we consistently post on social, we are not achieving ideal engagement levels.

Challenge 2:

We have seen a dramatic drop in our social content’s organic reach.

Not sure what your specific challenges may be? Our 2022 Sprout Social Index ™ surveyed social marketers and found these five challenges are the most common.

An overview of social media teams' biggest challenges including bandwidth, proving ROI, social execution, resourcing and social as a business function. The leading challenge is bandwidth/talent, which has increased significantly YOY.

Day 4: Brainstorm solutions

Round up your marketing team and brainstorm possible solutions to the challenges you previously listed.

Be sure to provide evidence to justify effective solutions so that you’re prepared when the time comes to gather resources and advocate for your budget .

Solution to Challenge 1:

We can use creators to engage with our social content and drive conversation.

Justification: In 2022, most marketers (74%) planned to spend at least a quarter of their social media budget on partnering with a content creator. With loyal followings, creators can boost engagement and keep relevant conversations going on social.

Solution to Challenge 2:

We can invest in paid social media advertising to run highly targeted campaigns and reach the right people.

Justification: Almost half of consumers report they “find the perfect products” by seeing targeted ads. By 2025, social shopping is set to become a $1.2 trillion channel .

Day 5: Analyze the competition

If you’re running out of ideas, try running a competitive analysis . Be careful not to mimic your competitors’ content, but use your analysis to determine your brand’s unique positioning instead.

Your brand and its competitors have similar ideal customer personas, so focus on the type of content that is resonating, both within your own social efforts and those of the competition.

Here are a few questions to consider as you analyze your competitor’s social marketing efforts:

  • Which marketing channels are my competitors using and are they successful in those channels?
  • What are my competitors talking about and are those topics generating high audience engagement?
  • Are there areas within our social strategy where we are outperforming our competitors?

Social analytics solutions are an effective way to compare your efforts against your competitors. Using Sprout’s Analytics , you can directly benchmark your efforts against one or more competitors.

A screenshot of the Profile Performance Report in Sprout's platform. In the image you can see the following metrics: impressions, engagements, post-link clicks and audience growth (which is charted in a colorful line graph).

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You can pinpoint days when competitors experienced peak engagement and dive deeper into what content was shared on those days to understand what resonates most with target audiences.

Week 2: Optimize your profiles and brand voice on social media

Day 6: determine your strengths and weaknesses.

Take a deep dive into your social strategy and determine where you are successful and where there is room for growth.

Conduct a survey among your marketing, sales, customer service and product teams to gauge where they see areas of success or room for improvement.

For each criteria regarding your social marketing strategy, determine whether it’s one of your strengths or weaknesses. This will help identify what you should focus on over the next five weeks.

A chart to help marketers assess their strengths and weaknesses when it comes to content marketing.

Day 7: Audit your content

Run a social media audit to identify your best-performing content and most popular channels. Take time to understand what’s working and why. Your metrics can help you identify which posts effectively cater to the interests of your audience.

If your posts aren’t engaging and resonating with your followers, your social media content strategy needs to shift. Use your audit to review the content you’ve shared and identify which posts had the biggest impact.

You can use Sprout’s Post Performance Report to parse through your most popular posts across platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn and Pinterest.

A screenshot of the Post Performance report in the Sprout platform that includes impressions, potential reach, engagements and engagement rate per impression % for each post within a 30-day time frame.

Day 8: Create a list of relevant keywords

Use social media listening tools to identify the keywords most often associated with your brand. These keywords can help your team throughout the content brainstorm and creation process.

Social listening can help you uncover unique opportunities to tie trending conversations to your business and products.

For example, our team of analysts found that a new TikTok sound titled “Corn but it becomes a song and unites world” spawned over 607,000 videos . Nando's UK went all-in on this trend by showcasing their grilled corn to the sound, garnering 11.6 million views and over a 330,000 likes.

Screenshot of a TikTok video by Nando's UK of five ears of corn on a grill.

Day 9: Determine your brand voice and social persona

When it comes to building a social audience, consistency is key. Creating a brand voice and identifying a persona will enable you to remain consistent across all of your social channels.

Take this 3-minute assessment to help you characterize your brand and determine the business goals you’re trying to achieve. Select the responses that best describe your objectives, vision and audience.

After you narrow in on your persona, choose three words that describe your brand then explain what they mean for your brand and create dos and dont’s to guide content creation .

A chart describing the do's and don'ts of voice characteristics

Day 10: Optimize your social profiles

While much of your time is spent planning and creating content, the information included on your profiles is vital to the success of your social marketing efforts.

After you’ve determined your brand’s persona, build out your profiles to align with your voice.

At a quick glance, your profile should speak to your brand with relevant visuals and engaging copy. Here are a few tactics to optimize your social profiles.

1. Use a consistent profile picture

If you own multiple social channels for your business, it’s important that your profile picture is consistent across every channel. Most businesses will use their company logo or variations of their logo that have been designed specifically for their social accounts. Staying consistent across your profiles will increase opportunities for brand recognition.

2. Complete every section of your profile

If there is a field for information, take advantage of the opportunity to tell your brand’s story. In creative and succinct ways, you should be able to describe what your business does, the offerings you can provide and how you add value to the lives of your customers.

3. Add keywords to boost SEO

On Day 8, you compiled a list of keywords relevant to your industry, brand and its offerings. Use these strategic keywords in every section of your profile to boost SEO. They should appear in your bio copy, in photo names, interests and experiences.

Week 3: Find and listen to your community to better understand your industry

Day 11: develop your buyer persona.

Transforming your social marketing strategy may require you to either revisit your current buyer personas or to create new ones from scratch.

Buyer personas help you better understand current and future customers, so you know exactly who you are marketing to and can create relevant content and offerings. Start by writing down everything you know about your target customer and perform research to fill in any gaps. For a robust buyer persona, try to capture the following information.

  • Demographics
  • Purchase behaviors
  • Goals, challenges, pain points

Day 12: Listen to your audience

Listening to your community can help you gain insight into the minds of your followers, so you can be more strategic in your social marketing efforts.

Using social media listening , you can learn a lot about your community (even when they’re not directly interacting with your brand) to inform a more effective strategy.

A screenshot of a Listening Performance Topic Summary in Sprout's platform. In the image, you can see total volume, engagements, impressions and sentiment analysis.

Here’s what you should listen for on social media:

  • What your audience is talking about and what they share most often
  • What your audience is saying about your brand, industry, products, services and competitors
  • What your audience is sharing on forum-style platforms like Reddit or Quora
  • How your audience engages with creators, trending topics and industry events

Day 13: Research industry trends and topics

To create relevant content and establish your brand as an authority on social, you must stay up to date with what’s happening in your industry.

Join conversations surrounding high-interest topics. Perform ongoing research to make sure the content you produce and share aligns with the current interests of your community. Here are a few resources that will help guide your research.

Newsletters

As social marketers, research is one of our most valuable skills. Instead of browsing aimlessly through content, rummaging through thousands of social profiles or running endless Google searches, an easy way to streamline research is to sign up for a solid mix of newsletters.

Newsletters provide insights into the state of the industry, changes in technology, updates to social networks and emerging trends and best practices.

Here are a few newsletters that social media marketers should add to their resource list:

  • Link in Bio features expert interviews from industry-leading social media managers. The newsletter shares actionable advice and relatable experiences to inspire their community.
  • Social Media Today focuses on sharing original analyses of what’s happening in social media. Their content is platform-focused, providing social marketers with insights on how to adopt new features and where other brands are finding success.
  • SocialMedia.org is a membership organization for leaders in the social media marketing space. Their weekly newsletter, The Shortlist , highlights member stories as they share what they’re working on and what they’re keeping an eye on in the space.

Webinars can have a significant impact on social marketing strategies by generating new leads and prospects, nurturing existing relationships and demonstrating expertise in our industries. During webinars, many businesses will live-Tweet along with their users to answer questions and keep the online conversation going.

Webinars can also provide a way for us to learn, which can spark content ideas during our brainstorming sessions. Social Media Today provides a wide variety of webinars specific to social marketers. You can register for upcoming webinars or watch from their library of on-demand sessions .

A screenshot of Social Media Today's resource hub where they feature on-demand webinars.

Forums give marketers an effective way to identify the topics that spur the most conversation online. Quora is a great resource to discover topics of interest, ask questions and engage in conversations relevant to your brand. As a brainstorming tool, forums can help social marketers build social content plans that address questions people are already asking.

Adweek (and publications like Digiday and Marketing Land ) present the anatomy of the latest, most creative campaigns out there, and also fill you in on the most recent news. The Mission (and Medium generally) is great to turn to for thought leadership and gauging the pulse of our industry and the visionaries in it.

Day 14: Connect with other departments

As you continue researching industry trends and topics as inspiration for your content, connect with other departments within your organization.

Social is no longer limited to marketing, with functions across the business weighing in on strategy. But as a more diverse set of stakeholders gets involved, core social teams will need to adapt. Figuring out who owns what, and which proficiencies are needed across teams, has to be addressed as social strategies become more sophisticated.

A graphic demonstrating which teams marketers say contribute to their organization's social strategy. The teams include customer service, corporate comms, product, HR and R&D.

For example, try speaking with members of your sales team: they are often the first points of contact for consumers, and they can provide insight into customers’ needs, challenges and successes. This insight can help generate content that addresses these needs or highlights successes.

Your human resources team can also provide insight into ongoing employer brand initiatives. Collaborate with HR to investigate how employees and potential hires are engaging with your brand on social. Their understanding of your workforce can help you identify what content is most effective for this important group of stakeholders.

A social media collaboration tool can help you streamline your efforts and manage cross-functional initiatives.

Day 15: Choose your content types

Start thinking about the types of content that will benefit your brand the most, while keeping your audience engaged.

Refer back to the buyer personas you created to determine if an image linking to a blog post would perform better than a Twitter chat or an Instagram Live event. Consider the resources available to you to determine if you can create a high quality how-to video, or if you need to scale down your efforts and create an infographic using the same content.

For the best results, diversify your content to keep your audience interested. If you post the same type of content day after day or week after week, your audience will inevitably disengage.

Here’s a list of possible content types you can start incorporating into your social marketing strategies:

  • Infographics

User-generated content

  • Photo and video
  • Live streaming

Before you start searching for content to share on social, figure out what your audience actually likes. One way to do that is to look at past social media posts to see which were most successful.

Pull all of your unique social media analytics with a tool like Sprout Social , Twitter Analytics or Facebook Insights . Below is an example of how to view your published posts with Sprout ( available with a free, 30-day trial ).

A screenshot of Sprout's YouTube Post Performance Report. The image shows metrics including video views, time watched and engagements.

Make sure you sort your posts by the metric that is most important to you, whether that’s clicks, responses or total reach. Once you have an idea of what kind of content works best, you can move onto the next step.

Week 4: Fill out your social content calendar to increase reach and engagement

Day 16: develop a posting schedule.

Your publishing cadence depends on a handful of factors including your company, your audience, the campaign in question and the social networks being used. We cover this more in our guide on how often to post on social media , but here are some recommended cadences for each network:

  • TikTok: 1-4 times per day
  • Instagram: 1-2 times per day
  • Facebook: 4-5 times per day
  • LinkedIn: No more than 1 time per day
  • Twitter: 3-4 times per day
  • Pinterest: No more than 1 time per day

There’s a good chance your post frequency will depend on the size, experience and authority of your social media team, so don’t feel like you have to send out less than stellar content to meet these guidelines.

Your brand’s analytics can help you determine your best posting frequency. You can use a tool like Sprout to see how often you post on each social network, then compare that to how much engagement you received over that same time period.

A screenshot of Sprout's Facebook Pages Report that includes impressions, engagements, post link clicks and audience growth.

Look for trends between publishing rate and engagement. The screenshots above are from our Facebook Page Report , but you can do the same for Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn posts as well.

Day 17: Brainstorm content ideas

Now’s the time to gather your inspiration and plan out content you know will resonate with your audience. The key to effective brainstorming is to put yourself in the mindset that inspiration can come from anywhere.

Think of what your business does well and how you can turn that into an engaging content piece. Look through some of your older content and see if you can repurpose or reformat it for a different channel.

Based on the conversations you’ve discovered are popular among your audience, how can you contribute to those conversations with fresh content? Here are some of 2022’s most popular content types.

About 66% of consumers cite short-form video as the overall most engaging social content, while 37% prefer live video and 24% prefer long-form video. Even if you don’t have the budget to hire a videographer, don’t rule this medium out. Tools like Canva and Biteable have democratized the creation process. Anyone on your team can make professional, on-brand videos, even while working remote .

Images and text-based posts 

In the era of video, images and text-based posts still pack a punch with today’s social users. In fact, 61% of consumers find images to be the most engaging social content. From Instagram carousels to Twitter threads, these posts are key pieces of leading content strategies.

Marketers have been able to amplify user-generated content to increase brand awareness, promote products and services and use the digital word-of-mouth concept to build brand trust and increase sales. In fact, 39% of consumers like to see brands share customer testimonials or real customer demos.

Day 18: Gather resources

Once you’ve determined the types of content best suited for your business and have decided on a publishing cadence, start gathering your resources.

Think back to the types of content you decided to incorporate into your social strategy and what resources you need to bring them to life. Here are several questions for you to consider as you start collecting your resources.

  • Have you decided on the type of creative assets you’ll use and how you’ll store them?
  • Who within the company needs to be involved in order to create this specific content piece?
  • Do you need any sort of creative support for visual elements?
  • Do you already own content (guides, e-books, blog posts) that can easily be repurposed for social?

Day 19: Draft your social media plan calendar and create your content

It’s time to get to work. Start the content creation process and set reasonable timelines for project completion.

Be sure to build social content that speaks to your customer personas, stays true to your brand voice and can easily fit within the posting schedule you’ve established.

Day 20: Optimize your content

During the creation process, it’s essential for you to optimize your content so that your efforts don’t go unnoticed in consumers’ crowded social feeds. Every net new content piece you create should be able to be repurposed for another use down the line.

Consider your video strategy . A video can be broken down into short clips, quote graphics, still images and more. Think through your options while creating content so you can fill out your social calendar with less effort going forward.

Here are a few additional tactics to optimize your social content to maximize reach and increase engagement:

  • Include hashtags
  • Shorten links
  • Include images
  • Adapt content for various social channels

Week 5: Supplement and boost your social media content calendar for the best results

Day 21: create a call to action.

Not all of the content you share on social needs to encourage customers to take action. You may even find that some of your most popular posts are those that simply showcase your brand personality or provide a good laugh for your audience.

Screenshot of The Sill's tiktok of a woman holding a potted plant and smiling.

If the primary goal of your social marketing is to generate new leads and guide people into your sales funnel, you need to give your audience a clear next step. Include direct CTAs (call to action) on the posts you are using to drive action.

For copy inspiration, check out this article on effective social CTA phrases .

Day 22: Connect to more resources

By connecting your audience to more resources (especially owned resources) you are establishing your brand as an authority on your space while inviting them to engage further. The more they learn about you and stay engaged with your brand, the more likely they are to convert.

At Sprout, we often share links to some of our favorite blog posts for our audience to learn more about social networks, best marketing practices and trending topics.

Screenshot of a Tweet from Sprout Social promoting their Social Media Trends for 2022 & Beyond research.

Day 23: Amplify your efforts

Once you’ve started promoting your content on social, think of ways you can amplify your messages to reach a larger audience.

Here is a short list of methods to consider in order to extend the reach of your content:

  • Leverage your employees by using Sprout Social’s Employee Advocacy platform to amplify your content
  • Give incentives for customers to share on their social channels
  • Use creators to extend the reach of your content

Day 24: Invest in your best content

As you promote and amplify your content, you may quickly notice that some types of content perform better than others in terms of engagement and conversion.

Extend the reach of these high-performing pieces through paid ads. You can target a highly specific audience, attract qualified traffic and leads and grow your customer base.

The algorithms for social networks like Facebook and Instagram are now starting to favor paid content over organic content, making it increasingly important to invest in paid to give your content a fighting chance for discovery.

Which social media network you choose will depend on three important factors:

  • Where your target customers are most concentrated
  • Where your target customers are most accessible
  • Where your target customers most actively engage with ads

Day 25: Engage with your audience

About 80% of consumers expect brands and companies that have a social media presence to interact with their customers in meaningful ways.

It’s important to engage with and respond to your audience. Engaging with your audience in a two-way dialogue builds brand trust and adds authenticity. As you monitor your audience’s reaction to your content, you can also gain valuable insight into its effectiveness.

Read through comments on your social posts and respond to questions and insightful comments. The comments section is a great tool for social marketers looking for feedback and can even inspire ideas for future content.

Week 6: Report on your social media results and celebrate your success

Day 26: track your content.

Content tracking is an effective way to gauge engagement and track the movement of your content across social channels.

You can track all of your content with the Sprout Social Post Performance Report. Use the Post Performance reports to analyze published content down to the individual post and understand its performance with your audience.

Here’s an example of how to view your cross-channel post performance with Sprout ( available with a free trial ).

Day 27: Compare results to goals

Think back to the objectives you set at the beginning of these 30 days.

For example, if your objective was to boost brand engagement, you needed to increase the number of likes, shares, mentions and comments by 20% by the end of the fourth quarter.

Using a social media analytics tool, you can compare month-over-month engagement for all of your social profiles to determine if you are on track to meet your social marketing goals.

Day 28: Report out

Share the results of your social marketing efforts with your marketing team and leadership. If you’re new to reporting or need to brush up on best practices, here’s a suite of resources that can help you create a routine reporting system.

This is your opportunity to showcase the goals you’ve established and your progress toward them. You should use hard evidence, like the data you’ve gathered through listening and analytics, to report on the success of your social marketing efforts.

A screenshot of Sprout's customized reporting capabilities. This custom report is a Facebook summary of impressions, engagement, post-click links and publishing behavior.

Depending on your goals, you may want to build a custom report that zeroes in on what matters to your team. With Sprout’s Report Builder , you can customize performance reports to meet your exact business needs. Once you’re happy with your report, you can customize your branding and export it as a .PDF or a .CSV file for easy sharing.

Day 29: Revisit and readjust your strategy

The most savvy marketers know that marketing strategies are in constant flux. Revisit your strategy , revise your marketing goals and adapt your strategies based on the data you’ve collected.

Day 30: Celebrate your transformation

Congratulations, you’ve successfully made it through the 30-day social marketing transformation program.

Celebrate your new strategy and the effort you’ve made to enhance your social marketing.

Plan with Sprout Social: Create your social media marketing plan with Sprout Social

This social media plan was created to help social marketers refine their strategies. Our goal is to provide you with actionable steps to transform your social marketing strategies to help you create content that is purposeful, engaging and, ultimately, delivers real business results.

Keep in mind that transforming your social media strategic planning doesn’t end with these 30 days—continue to identify challenges to your social marketing strategy, analyze your competitors, discover ways to optimize your content and social profiles and remember to always revisit and adjust your strategies as needed.

Want to learn how Sprout Social’s features and solutions can help you create an even better social media plan? Start a free, 30-day trial to try Sprout for yourself.

Use this worksheet to stay on track with the social media strategy template outlined in this guide.

Additional resources for Social Media Planning

  • Social Media Content

Your downloadable social media calendar template for 2024

  • Branding & Creative
  • Marketing Disciplines

Complete guide to content calendar creation

  • Leveling Up
  • Social Media Strategy

How to optimize your social media workflow

  • Social Media Engagement
  • Social Media Scheduling

A complete guide to creating a social media calendar

  • Social Media Analytics

Build and grow stronger relationships on social

Sprout Social helps you understand and reach your audience, engage your community and measure performance with the only all-in-one social media management platform built for connection.

BUSINESS STRATEGIES

How to create a consultant business plan

  • Nirit Braun
  • Oct 30, 2023
  • 12 min read

How to create a consultant business plan

When launching your consulting business, one of the essential first steps is crafting a well-structured and detailed business plan. Your consulting business plan is like a strategic playbook that lays out your goals, tactics and financial projections. It not only steers you toward success but also equips you to adapt and thrive in the dynamic world of consulting.

Keep reading for tips on how to build a strong business plan for your business. Use the template provided at the end to get started on your own plan.

Looking to kick off your consultancy business? Create a business website today with Wix.

Why create a consultant business plan? Top benefits to consider

A business plan forces entrepreneurs to thoroughly evaluate their business idea, target audience and competitive landscape. This process clarifies their vision and mission, ensuring that they have a clear understanding of how their consultancy will provide value to clients. A business plan helps you in the following ways:

Create a business blueprint : With a business plan in place, entrepreneurs looking to start a business can make informed decisions based on a solid foundation of research and analysis. They can choose the most effective strategies for marketing, pricing and service delivery, enhancing their chances of success. Your business plan can also be used to explain what type of business you'll start - whether that's an LLC, Corporation or something else. Learn more about how to start an LLC .

Secure funding : The cost to start a consultancy business can range from around $60 to several thousand dollars . For those seeking external funding, a well-developed business plan demonstrates credibility and professionalism. Investors and lenders are more likely to support a venture with a thought-out plan that showcases its potential for growth and profitability.

Set measurable goals : A business plan sets measurable goals and performance metrics, which is vital with this type of business . This allows entrepreneurs to track their progress, adapt strategies as needed and celebrate milestones along the way.

Want to remind yourself of the basics? Learn more about how to start a service business .

How to create a successful consultant business plan in 6 steps

In this section, we'll break down the key components involved in crafting a successful consultant business plan in six steps.

Executive summary

Business and domain names

Market analysis and research

Operations plan

Marketing and advertising plan

Financial plan

01. Executive summary

An executive summary serves as a concise overview of the consultant's business plan, providing a snapshot of the key components and the business' essence. It's usually the first section investors, lenders and stakeholders read, so it must encapsulate the business' value proposition, objectives, strategies and projected growth. To write a clear executive summary for a consultant business make sure to keep it succinct yet informative. Clearly state the purpose of the business, the services offered, the target market and the unique value proposition. Avoid technical jargon that may confuse readers.

Then you can mention the business' strengths, such as the expertise of the consultants, unique methodologies or specialized services. Emphasize factors that set your consultancy apart from competitors.

Briefly discuss the market need for your services and how your consultancy plans to fulfill it. It’s worth noting that strategy and management consulting, as well as technology consulting, financial consulting and HR consulting are in high demand . Highlight any trends or changes in the industry that your business can capitalize on.

Remember to include a snapshot of your financial projections, indicating expected revenue, costs and profitability. This provides a glimpse into the business' potential financial success.

Example of an executive summary for a consultant business

"XYZ Consulting is a boutique consultancy firm specializing in digital transformation for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). With a team of seasoned professionals, we offer tailored solutions to help businesses harness the power of technology for growth. Our unique approach blends strategic consulting with hands-on implementation, ensuring tangible results. In a rapidly evolving tech landscape, XYZ Consulting is poised to be the partner SMEs need to thrive. Our financial projections forecast a steady growth trajectory, with a focus on achieving profitability within the first two years. With a proven track record and a finger on the pulse of industry trends, XYZ Consulting is well-equipped to guide businesses toward digital success."

02. Business and domain names

Knowing how to name a business is crucial for a consultancy venture and a key step before you register your business . It's the foundation of your brand and influences how clients perceive your services. With Wix , you can use a free business name generator or consulting company name generator as helpful tools for brainstorming unique and memorable names. Ensure the name reflects your expertise and the services you offer.

Similarly, the domain name for your business website is vital. It should be easy to remember, relevant to your services and ideally, match your company name. Check the domain's availability using domain registration platforms. Ensure the domain name aligns with your consultancy's focus and services. Generally, this means keeping it short and easy to spell and pronounce.

Learn more: How to make a consulting website

03. Market analysis and research

Incorporating a thorough market analysis within your consultant business plan is essential. Understand the competitive landscape, target audience and market trends. Research your competitors' strengths and weaknesses, pricing strategies and client base. This information will shape your business strategies and help you identify gaps in the market that your consultancy can fill.

04. Operations plan

The operations plan outlines the logistical aspects of your consultancy. It covers location, premises, equipment and staffing requirements. Determine whether your consultancy will be home-based, have a physical office or operate virtually. Define the equipment and software needed to deliver services effectively. Outline your staffing needs, including the roles and expertise required.

05. Marketing and advertising plan

Your marketing and advertising plan outlines how you will promote your consultant business. Identify the most effective strategies to reach your target audience. Consider content marketing, social media campaigns, networking events and speaking engagements to showcase your expertise. Emphasize how your marketing efforts will build brand awareness and attract clients.

You’ll need to develop a suite of brand assets to use in your marketing as well, starting with a company logo. You can use a free logo maker to get a professional logo in minutes.

06. Financial plan

The financial plan is a critical component of any business plan. It outlines how you will raise money for your business initially and provides a timeline for reaching profitability. Detail your startup costs, including equipment, marketing expenses and personnel. Present your revenue projections, taking into account different pricing models and growth scenarios. Highlight your break-even point and the strategies you'll employ to achieve profitability.

By addressing each part of their plan, entrepreneurs can create a robust business plan that guides them toward achieving their business goals and building a reputable consulting brand.

steps to developing a business plan

Consultant business plan examples

These templates illustrate two hypothetical consultant business plans, each tailored to a specific niche. These are just templates and should be adapted to your specific business goals and industry dynamics.

Consultant business plan template #1: XYZ Digital Consultants

XYZ Digital Consultants is a pioneering consultancy firm focused on digital transformation for businesses seeking to thrive in the digital age. Our team of experienced professionals offers strategic guidance and hands-on implementation to drive growth through technology adoption. With projected profitability within two years and a commitment to excellence, XYZ Digital Consultants is poised to lead businesses into a successful digital future.

Company and domain name

Company name: XYZ Digital Consultants

Domain name: xyzdigitalconsultants.com

Market opportunity: The rapid shift toward digital operations has created a substantial demand for expert guidance. Our analysis reveals a gap in the market for holistic digital transformation solutions tailored to the needs of SMEs.

Competitor research: We've identified key competitors and their strengths, which informs our strategy to emphasize personalized service and comprehensive implementation.

Location: Primarily virtual, with occasional in-person consultations as needed.

Premises: Home-based setup with access to modern communication tools.

Equipment: High-speed internet, latest software tools and virtual meeting platforms.

Staffing: Founder and lead consultant, supported by contract specialists as projects demand.

Content marketing: Regular blog posts on digital transformation trends, case studies and client success stories.

Social media campaigns: Active presence on LinkedIn and X to engage with potential clients and share valuable insights.

Networking events: Participation in industry webinars, seminars and local business events to showcase expertise.

Speaking engagements: Leveraging speaking opportunities at conferences and workshops to establish authority in the field.

Startup costs (equipment, website development, marketing materials): $15,000

Revenue projections (year one): $150,000

Revenue projections (year two) : $300,000

Break-even point: Achieved by the end of year one

Funding: Initial investment and savings from the founder

Consultant business plan template #2: LeadersEdge Consultants

LeadersEdge Consultants is a dynamic consultancy dedicated to leadership development and organizational excellence. Our experienced team offers customized programs that empower leaders to drive positive change. With a projected growth trajectory and a commitment to fostering impactful leadership, LeadersEdge Consultants is poised to transform organizations and elevate their success.

Company name: LeadersEdge Consultants

Domain name: leadersedgeconsultants.com

Market opportunity: Our analysis reveals a growing need for leadership development programs in diverse industries.

Competitor research: We've identified competitors' offerings and recognized an opportunity to provide a unique blend of coaching, training and strategy implementation.

Location: Virtual consultations, with the option for on-site workshops

Premises: Virtual office setup with video conferencing capabilities

Equipment: High-quality audiovisual tools, assessment software and learning platforms

Staffing : Founder will serve as the lead consultant, supported by certified leadership coaches

Customized workshops: Designing tailored leadership development programs for individual organizations.

Webinars: Hosting webinars on leadership best practices to showcase expertise and engage potential clients.

Thought leadership content: Publishing whitepapers, eBooks and video content on leadership topics.

Collaborations: Partnering with HR and talent development professionals to expand reach.

Startup costs ( making a website , training materials) : $10,000

Revenue projections (year one): $120,000

Revenue projections (year two): $250,000

Break-even point: Achieved within the first six months

Funding: Initial investment from the founder.

How much should you be charging as a consultant?

The amount you charge as a consultant will depend on a number of factors, including:

Your experience and expertise

The type of consulting services you offer

The value you provide to your clients

The market rate for consulting services in your field

In general, consultants charge between $100 and $500 per hour. However, some experienced and highly specialized consultants can charge upwards of $1,000 per hour.

To determine your consulting rate, you can use the following formula:

Consulting rate = Hourly rate * Value multiplier

Your hourly rate should reflect your experience and expertise, as well as the type of consulting services you offer. For example, if you have 10 years of experience and you offer specialized consulting services, you can charge a higher hourly rate than a consultant with less experience and who offers more general consulting services.

Your value multiplier should reflect the value you provide to your clients. For example, if you can help your clients to achieve significant results, you can charge a higher value multiplier.

Here is an example of how to use the formula:

Consultant: Experienced consultant with 10 years of experience offering specialized consulting services

Hourly rate: $200 per hour

Value multiplier: 2

Consulting rate: $200 per hour * 2 = $400 per hour

Can a consulting business be profitable?

Yes, a consulting business can be profitable. In fact, consulting is one of the most profitable industries in the world. According to a report by IBISWorld, the average profit margin for consulting businesses is 20%. This means that for every $100 in revenue, consulting businesses generate $20 in profit.

There are a number of factors that contribute to the profitability of consulting businesses. First, consultants are able to charge high fees for their services. Second, consulting businesses have relatively low overhead costs. Third, the demand for consulting services is high, and it's only expected to grow in the coming years.

Of course, not all consulting businesses are successful. Some consultants struggle to find clients or to charge high enough fees. Others may not be able to deliver the results that their clients expect. However, for consultants who are able to overcome these challenges, the potential rewards are great.

Here are some tips for increasing your chances of success as a consultant:

Specialize in a high-demand area of consulting. This will allow you to charge higher fees and attract more clients.

Build a strong reputation and network of clients. This will help you to generate word-of-mouth referrals and land new clients.

Market your services effectively. Make sure that potential clients know about your services and how you can help them.

Deliver high-quality results. This is the most important thing you can do to ensure that your clients are satisfied and that they continue to use your services in the future.

How much does it cost to start a consulting business?

The cost to start a consulting business can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the type of consulting services you offer, the size of your business and your location. However, in general, you can expect to spend between $10,000 and $50,000 to start a consulting business.

Here is a breakdown of some of the typical start-up costs for a consulting business:

Business formation: $100 to $1,000

Website and domain name: $100 to $2,500

Marketing and advertising: $500 to $5,000

Office equipment and supplies: $500 to $5,000

Professional liability insurance: $500 to $1,000

Other miscellaneous expenses: $500 to $5,000

Total start-up costs: $10,000 to $50,000

You can reduce your start-up costs by working from home, using free or low-cost marketing tools and purchasing used equipment. You can also start your consulting business part-time while you continue to work your full-time job. This will give you a chance to generate revenue and build a client base before you leave your full-time job.

If you need financial assistance to start your consulting business, you may be able to qualify for a loan from a bank or credit union. You may also be able to find investors who are willing to invest in your business.

Which clients to avoid and which to take on?

Here are some tips on which clients to avoid and which to take on in a consulting business:

Clients to avoid

Clients who aren't willing to pay your rates. If a client isn't willing to pay your rates, it's a sign that they don't value your services.

Clients who are unrealistic about their expectations. If a client has unrealistic expectations about what you can achieve, you're likely to set yourself up for failure.

Clients who are difficult to work with. If a client is demanding, rude or disrespectful, it's best to avoid them.

Clients who aren't a good fit for your business. If a client isn't in your target market or if their business isn't aligned with your values, it's best to decline working with them.

Clients to take on

Clients who are willing to pay your rates. This shows that they value your services and are committed to working with you.

Clients who have realistic expectations. This makes it more likely that you will be able to meet their needs and exceed their expectations.

Clients who are easy to work with. This will make the consulting process more enjoyable and productive for both of you.

Clients who are a good fit for your business. This means that they're in your target market and that their business is aligned with your values.

In addition to the above, here are some other factors to consider when deciding which clients to take on:

Your own skills and experience. Make sure that you have the skills and experience to help the client achieve their goals.

The client's budget. Make sure that the client has a budget that's sufficient to cover your fees.

The client's timeline. Make sure that you have the time and resources to meet the client's timeline.

Your gut feeling. If you have a bad feeling about a client, it's best to trust your gut and decline working with them.

It's important to be selective about the clients you take on. By avoiding difficult clients and focusing on good-fit clients, you can set yourself up for success in your consulting business.

Consultant business plan FAQ

What qualifies you as a consultant.

To qualify as a consultant, you need to have the expertise and experience in the area that you're consulting in. You also need to be able to communicate your ideas effectively and build relationships with clients.

How do you start off as a consultant?

How to make 6 figures as a consultant, how do you pay yourself as a consultant, do consultants pay their own taxes, want to create another business plan.

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The blueprint for crafting your effective consulting business plan

Keith Rabkin

Keith Rabkin Chief Revenue Officer for PandaDoc

  • Copy Link Link copied

Ever tried to put up a tent blindfolded? Navigating the consulting world without a business plan can feel the same overcomplicated.

We created this guide to help you set a strategic, actionable plan on how to operate your early-stage consulting business.

We’ll help you define your services, set achievable and clear goals, and arrange strategies for growth.

So are you ready to pitch your tent with both eyes open?

Key takeaways

  • A consulting business plan starts with defining your unique selling proposition (USP). Identify a niche and ideal client by conducting thorough market research and competitive analysis.
  • Develop a 12-month marketing strategy with specific targets. Allocate 10-15% of projected revenue to marketing for optimal results.
  • Realistically estimate your expenses and revenue based on billable hours/fees and retention rate assumptions.
  • Use a proven template rather than starting from scratch to not overlook important elements of the plan.

What is a consulting business plan?

A business plan is a document covering all the aspects of your future consulting business in terms of achieving business goals.

In other words, this specific plan removes the guesswork from how one runs their consulting business.

In the upcoming sections, we’ll explain the key pieces needed to create your business plan.

Components of a consulting business plan

Your consulting business plan should offer a detailed overview of your consulting firm.

Let’s briefly review the essential sections of the plan and what should be in each of them.

  • Executive summary is a short overview of the main points of the document.
  • Business overview highlights the mission, vision, history, and services offered by the consulting firm.
  • Management team provides bios and expertise of key team members.
  • Customer analysis defines target clients, their needs, and how the consulting service solves their problems.
  • Industry analysis evaluates the landscape including growth, trends, regulations, and competition.
  • Competitive analysis compares the consulting firm’s positioning and offerings versus competitors.
  • Marketing plan outlines promotional strategies, lead generation, and metrics.
  • Operations plan details the logistics of service delivery, staffing, resources, and customer service principles.
  • Financial plan projects costs, revenue, cash flow, and profitability timelines.

Key steps for developing your consulting business plan

Building a thriving consulting business requires thorough planning and a keen eye for detail. Let’s walk through this journey step-by-step.

Step 1. Identify your niche and ideal clients

Kick off your business plan by diving deep into industry research. Look for sectors and trends where there’s a gap that your expertise can fill.

To validate the demand, consider surveying potential clients.

Once you’ve got a handle on that, create a detailed profile of your ideal client , considering factors like their company size, revenue streams, challenges, and objectives.

By the way, focusing on ideal buying personas in B2B (with all these fictitious names, bios, etc.) is one of the greatest sales mistakes, according to Corporate Visions’ findings and Gartner B2B sales research results.

Step 2. Analyze the competition

Understanding your competition is crucial. Examine competitor services offered, how they are marketed, and what they charge.

This is your chance to find your unique selling proposition.

Step 3. Set your rates and service packages

Following the actual industry norms to appoint your consulting fees. However, the price that you use should mirror both your expenses as well as the premium value that your expertise brings to your clients.

Let’s say you work out your overhead costs (utilities, office rental, equipment, etc.) to be roughly $50 per hour, while your hourly work value, which includes your experience and knowledge in this field, is $100.

So, your primary costs in total for an hour of consultation would be $150.

A standard practice in the consulting industry is to have a 100% markup rate on your primary costs.

Applying that rule to your scenario would mean doubling your total cost of $150, which brings your final hourly rate to $300.

Create bundled service packages that combine different services, such as business strategy consultation, market analysis report, and a follow-up action plan. You can offer these at a discounted rate compared to purchasing each service individually.

For example, Bronze is an entry-level package with initial consultation and some basic professional business advice.

Silver is a mid-tier package covering everything from the Bronze plus a detailed action plan for improving business operations.

Finally, the Gold package is a top-tier one complementing what’s in Silver with extended support and follow-ups.

Step 4. Create a marketing and client acquisition strategy

Outline a 12-month marketing strategy that includes a mix of content marketing, events, referrals, and lead-generation campaigns .

Set achievable targets for each quarter, focusing on metrics like leads generated, sales appointments set, and deals closed.

When it comes to budgeting, aim to allocate 10%-15% of your projected revenue or even more to marketing.

According to Gartner, the average startup spends 11.2% of its revenue on marketing.

the average startup spends 11.2% of its revenue on marketing

Step 5. Calculate potential project expenses and revenue

You’ll need to account for various expenses, including staffing, office space, equipment, software, and marketing.

Don’t forget about professional services, travel, and other overhead costs.

On the revenue side, forecast your monthly earnings based on projected billable hours or fixed fees, and assume a client retention rate between 80%-90% .

Extend these projections to create 3 to 5-year profit and loss statements and cash flow forecasts.

Step 6. Plan for sustainability and growth

Your business plan shouldn’t just be a launchpad; it should be a roadmap for long-term growth.

Given that self-funding for growth beyond 20% annually is often unrealistic for most consulting firms, you’ll need a plan B.

One smart move is to establish strategic financial partnerships with investors, banks, or other financial institutions.

These partnerships can offer the capital injection you need to scale your services, break into new markets, or even acquire other businesses. 

More than just a financial lifeline, these partnerships can also provide invaluable business insights and open doors to new opportunities.

Step 7. Use an appropriate consulting business plan template

Having a consulting business plan template is like having a roadmap for your contractual relationships.

It ensures you don’t overlook key elements such as scope, payment terms, and legal considerations.

social media consultant business plan

Consultant Business Plan Template

Used 4999 times

An example of a document outlining your strategy for launching or expanding your consulting firm is a Consultant Business Plan Template. The essential elements include a summary of the company, team, sector, rivals, target audience, and an operations and marketing strategy.

Customize it and review it with a legal advisor to ensure compliance.

Why developing a consulting business plan is so important

Let’s talk about the positive outcomes of planning. A well-defined consulting business plan…

…directs your business operations

A business plan defines your strategy and major goals, simplifying day-to-day decision-making and helping you focus on long-term objectives.

In other words, you know what to do next at any given moment of operating your early-stage consulting business.

…mitigates your risks

With a comprehensive business plan in place, you can anticipate and prepare for potential challenges, turning risks into opportunities.

…attracts investors

If you want to secure investments, the first thing venture investors or business angels will ask you for is (surprise, surprise) a business plan.

Not just any plan, but a detailed, convincing blueprint of your consulting business that highlights growth and potential returns.

Wrapping up

A well-crafted consulting business plan is essential for guiding your strategy, operations, marketing, finances, and growth.

Carefully working through each component will ensure you launch your firm following a clear plan on how to achieve success.

Using business planning platforms like PandaDoc that offer templates and tools can help streamline creating a professional plan.

The software also enables real-time collaboration so you can work seamlessly with colleagues and advisors.

PandaDoc is not a law firm, or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. This page is not intended to and does not provide legal advice. Should you have legal questions on the validity of e-signatures or digital signatures and the enforceability thereof, please consult with an attorney or law firm. Use of PandaDocs’ services are governed by our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

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Socialbuzzhive by Emily Standley

4 Steps to Build a Successful Social Media Strategy to Grow Your Business

A s an expert social media consultant and manager, probably like you, it gets exhaustive building extensive, detailed strategies that take a huge amount of time. Here’s how you can build a successful social media strategy in 2024 for your clients or your own business in four simple steps!

Photo by Adem AY on Unsplash

Does this sound familiar?

When you or your agency brings on a new client, do you plan a meeting, sit down, and present a massive social strategy presentation, with 75 power point slides displaying every insight and minute detail?

Do you really think your clients really read all of it?

Top executives just want to get to the bottom line and view the content . See if it works for them and their brand.

That’s why there’s really no need to be spending 60 or more hours building a successful social media strategy plan that no one really pays attention to!

Growing a successful social media strategy should be fun, engaging, attractive, and most of all simple.

How you communicate your social strategy to a business should also be seamless and simple.

The ideal successful social media strategy plan is to answer four questions:

What do you want to accomplish on social media, who are the people you’re trying to reach.

  • How will you measure success?
  • And what resources do you have to reach your goals?

Let’s take a look at each.

Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash

Think goals are obvious? Think again.

There are many types of goals, large and small and they need to be prioritized.

Goals on social media need to be tailored to your audience, fit your brand, match your voice or else you’ll miss your mark completely.

As a social manager you’ll want to show these goals and the path that led you to the success of meeting them.

The “SMART” acronym is a popular and perfect way to start.

SMART stands for:

  • Specific: Are you targeting brand awareness? Conversions? Followers?
  • Measurable: If you can’t measure it, it’s not specific enough.
  • Achievable: You’re not getting to a million followers overnight. Be realistic.
  • Relevant: Your social goals must tie into to your business goals.
  • Time-sensitive: Know when you’re checking in on your goals. Monthly? Quarterly? Annually?

Frameworks can have a bad rep but are a necessary fundamental approach that helps build your social media foundation.

Keep them top of mind!

For a detailed post on how to create an epic social media marketing strategy for your business read below!

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 on Unsplash

Knowing your target audience is a MUST for marketing in any venue.

It needs to be known inside and out from when your audience logs in, to what type of bagels they enjoy, leisure activities, sites they frequent most and more.

Building an accurate buyer persona is massively important.

Throwing ideas out there and hoping to attract the right person is like throwing a generic profile on a dating site with a blurry toothpaste-stained photo, and no bio. It’s a no go.

You can’t go for mass appeal when your brand is trying to target in on an exclusive niche market.

When working on a successful social media strategy for a business focus your content on current owners.

Reach out to them, find out what they like and don’t like about your products or services. What could be improved?

Existing owners are much more likely to help build your engagement than someone just dropping in on your page by happenstance.

Find out what their major interests are and grow upon that.

As far as posting don’t forget the rule of 80/20. Post 80% posts of interesting, fun stuff, storytelling and 20% of more brand driven material.

Successful Social Media Strategies

Photo by Rodion Kutsaiev on Unsplash

If you’re a social media freelancer and working for multiple companies in various niches, it’s a bit trickier as you must build your knowledge and research skills on many levels.

Fortunately, Google, ChatGPT and AI software like WriteSonic is super helpful with that.

Focus on the top content creation skills you already have.

If you’re mainly a writer use your copywriting skills to engage with quirky or unique copy.

Are you a rockstar with design? Grab them with eye catching graphic design or video content .

If you enjoy being in front of the camera you can create short skits for TikTok .

This doesn’t require a lot of expensive equipment, but it does require some ingenuity and panache.

Again, always be thinking about the audience you want to attract for the particular brand.

12 Top Social Media Predictions for 2024

Professional tip! If you’re spending more time creating than you’re receiving engagement, likes, shares and follows something’s amiss.

Rethink your successful social media strategy, your platform and reassess.

When working with a larger team use the talents of the team based on what they are good at individually.

Don’t assign Peter the graphic designer to write Ogilvy copy to attract the masses. He’ll be miserable and it won’t get you the results you need.

Fortunately, there’s a great deal of high-quality social media software out there to help you out.

This not only helps with scheduling, headline writing tips , posting, keeping track of, measuring, and managing all your content to multiple platforms, but also with curation of posts, ideas and more.

How will you measure your success?

Photo by Timothy Hales Bennett on Unsplash

There are endless ways to measure success on social media to track how your posts are resonating with your audience.

Depending on what your company wants to accomplish; likes, follows, conversions, sharing, this can be tracked within each social network itself or through an excellent social media software like Sprout Social , Crowdfire which is highly affordable, or another.

Keep the SMART goals in mind.

Most companies are of course interested ultimately in conversions.

To get there though you need to start at the top of the funnel which is, you guessed it – interest and engagement .

Sprout Social and other social media software have a detailed list of analytics and measurement options to see how well your content is working and has an amazing list of great metrics to monitor your posts to choose from.

What resources do you have to reach your goals?

Launching a successful social media campaign doesn’t have to be expensive.

There’s high quality software that fits various budgets big and small that do a host of incredible things that will save tons of time, energy and effort. You can schedule social posts up to a year in advance if need be.

Depending on the number of clients you have you could outsource the work to various freelancers online or in house.

What gets expensive is advertising on the social platforms. Obviously, that depends entirely upon the client’s budget.

Platforms like Meta, Instagram , TikTok and others all have a host of educational resources within that are highly helpful to marketers, businesses, and individuals.

After all, that’s how they make their money!

I recommend educating yourself (if you’re a solo social manager) or hiring someone who is familiar with managing social media advertising as the metrics and monitoring of that is more complex than running a simple social media campaign.

Rinse and repeat your social media strategy

Photo by Marvin Meyer on Unsplash

Keep in mind – successful social media strategies are not one size fits all. What works for a dental company will not work for an ecommerce business.

They all must be custom designed for each and every brand, business and company.

They also can’t or rather should not be duplicated for each platform as each social network is different and caters to a unique demographic.

Try not to be impatient. If you don’t see results in a month that’s to be expected.

It takes time, consistency, patience, and trust for people to reach out online.

Authenticity is a word that’s thrown out there often nowadays, but it is imperative.

The more transparent, knowledgeable, educational, fun, and interactive your social media strategy is the more people will want to interact with you, remember you, and eventually be curious enough to visit your website or perhaps even make a purchase directly from your social platform.

For more tips on how to grow your business and presence online reach out to me on social or visit my website .

Follow me here and on Instagram for more leading tips to grow your business massively online!

As an expert social media consultant and manager, probably like you, it gets exhaustive building extensive, detailed str

BizFundingResource.com

Social Media Consultant Business Plan and SWOT Analysis

Social Media Consultant Business Plan, Marketing Plan, How To Guide, and Funding Directory

The Social Media Consultant Business Plan and Business Development toolkit features 18 different documents that you can use for capital raising or general business planning purposes. Our product line also features comprehensive information regarding to how to start a Social Media Consultant business. All business planning packages come with easy-to-use instructions so that you can reduce the time needed to create a professional business plan and presentation.

Your Business Planning Package will be immediately emailed to you after you make your purchase.

Product Specifications (please see images below):

Social media has become pervasive on a worldwide basis in regards to how people communicate with each other. As such, the demand among large corporations and even small businesses to have a reach among people that are involved with FaceBook, Twitter, Google+, Instagram, and LinkedIn is substantial. The demand for social media consultants has skyrocketed over the past five years given that there is an ever-changing complexity to helping people communicate with one another, and as such – there is a strong need for individuals that have this type of expertise that can manage profiles on behalf of their clients. The barriers to entry for a new social media consulting firm are very low. Usually, these businesses can be started for as little as $1,000 if the individual is operating in a freelance capacity. However, for companies that want to immediately create a large presence for themselves the start of cost typically range anywhere from $75,000 to $100,000 depending on the number of people that are going to be on staff from the onset of operations. It should be noted that the demand for social media consulting service typically does not wane during economic recessions has many companies will turn to these platforms in order to promote their products and services given the low cost. The gross margins generated from social media consulting services is extremely high with most firms producing gross profits of 90% to 95% depending is will on what is being calculated as part of their cost of goods sold.

Given the highly economically secure nature of these businesses and their ability to produce highly recurring streams of revenue – most financial institutions will extend a working capital line of credit to finance the early operating expenses of the business. Of course, a social media consulting business plan is going to be required. This business plan should feature a three-year profit and loss statement, cash analysis, balance sheet, breakeven analysis, and business ratios page.

Specific to this industry, there are currently about 100,000 people that operate as incorporated or independent social media consultants. Each year, these businesses aggregate we generate about $3 billion revenue and provide payrolls of $2 billion per year. The growth of this industry is expected to remain strong with annual growth of 10% to 25% given the continued and rapid expansion of social media platforms.

Within the documentation there should also be a discussion regarding the demographics of the types of businesses that we targeted for the social media consultant services. This includes discussing specific industries that may be targeted, annual revenues, annual profits, and the amount of money that any specific client has allocated for a year for social media marketing. As it relates to competition, this is somewhat difficult to gauge given that there are numerous companies and freelancers that operate within this space. Beyond companies that directly provide social media services, these companies face competition from pay per click marketing firms, search engine optimization firms, and web developers that render the services as ancillary benefits to their primary revenue centers.

A social media consultant marketing plan also needs to be developed. This marketing plan needs to be nearly exclusively done online given that many people now search for these types of services using search engines as well as varying social media platforms. Given the specific nature of this type of advertising and marketing business, it is imperative that the company maintain a substantial presence on the major social networking platforms. This will ensure that people understand exactly what this service can provide them and the return on investment as it relates to the marketing budget. In many cases, the principal focus of marketing messages that are sent out to large corporations, medium-size businesses, and small businesses focus almost exclusively on the net return on investment for each dollar of capital spent on social media marketing.

The company should also maintain a large-scale proprietary website that showcases the costs, anticipated returns on investment for a media marketing budget, hours of operation, contact information, and other relevant information as to how an individual or a company can become a client of the firm.

In some cases, as these businesses expand – they may engage in a limited print focused marketing campaign that is geared towards much larger corporations. This is especially true if the social media consultant is going to target a specific industry to provide services. However, for smaller companies – the marketing operations are most exclusively conducted on an online basis.

A social media consultant SWOT analysis should be produced as well. As it relates to strengths, the demand for social media consulting will remain strong in perpetuity given this is now the new way that most people in the world communicate with one another. The barriers to entry are low in the startup costs are considered very low. The high gross margins allow these businesses to remain profitable even if there are slight declines in revenue.

For weaknesses, these businesses will continue to face a significant and growing amount of competition as time progresses. Given the unique nature of these businesses and low barriers to entry, most any person with a laptop can call themselves a social media consultant and begin rendering services to the general public. However, once a firm has developed a strong reputation than the competitive issues that they face will decline rapidly.

As it relates to opportunities, these businesses are able to aggressively expand by hiring additional consultants, increasing the size of their marketing campaigns, and providing a larger number of services in order to reduce the total revenues. Additionally, many firms can acquire already existing consulting businesses that are already in profitable operation.

As it relates to threats, this is an ongoing and ever-changing industry. Technology changes a very rapid rate and as such it is important that the entrepreneur that is starting a social media consulting firm have a complete understanding of how to properly obtain clients, render social media marketing services, and develop marketing messages that properly position clients products and services within the marketplace. There are limited external factors as it relates to the economy that would impact the way that these companies do business.

A social media consultant business can be highly lucrative once the entrepreneur develops an expansive client base. It is imperative that these businesses maintain a very close watch on their operating expenses given that the landscape of how these companies operate can change at any given time. However, it should be again noted that these businesses are expected to remain in very strong demand over the next three decades at minimum. These companies are have limited risk as it relates to automation.

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  2. How Social Media Marketing Agency Helps in Improving an Brand

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  3. How to Build a Social Media Plan for Your Business

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  6. Social Media Business Plan Template [Free PDF]

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  1. 10 Steps to Launch a Social Media Consultant Business

    monitoring reporting training Assuming that you are qualified for the job and are committing enough time and resources to make your social media consulting business a success, here are the 10 most important steps in how to start social media consulting: 1) Research and Choose Your Niche

  2. How to Build a Successful Social Media Consulting Service

    Andrew Barlos August 10, 2022 15 min read The pandemic accelerated digital transformation for businesses. Brands both large and small, whether ecommerce or social media, require more and more expertise, advice, and help to operate. Having a successful social media consulting service under your belt has never been more needed…

  3. How to Start a Social Media Consulting Business

    1 Define your niche One of the first steps to starting a social media consulting business is to identify your target market and your unique value proposition. What kind of clients do you...

  4. How to become a successful social media consultant

    1. Do your research Just like starting any new business, researching your industry, pricing and potential client base is key. Saying that you'll offer consulting services is not enough—creating a business plan helps you work through how you'll generate revenue. Research your potential competitors through LinkedIn and Google searches.

  5. How to Start Your Own Social Media Consultancy

    1. You're an expert social media marketer Before you can advise clients about using social media for marketing, you need extensive firsthand experience. How much experience do you need? There's no set number of accounts you should have managed or years you should have worked in social media.

  6. How To Start A Social Media Marketing Agency in 2024

    Determine your unique selling points and prepare a business plan. When starting a social media marketing agency, studying and understanding the market is important. Many agencies will offer different services similar to yours. So understanding the market is vital to determine what your audience wants and what your unique selling points will be.

  7. How to Become a Social Media Consultant, According to 5 Successful Ones

    1. Build a portfolio of case studies, and produce and publish content that proves your worth. Keith Kakadia, Founder and CEO Sociallyin.com, told me -- "My advice to anyone who is trying to build a portfolio of clients as a social media marketing consultant would be to do a few things, starting with building out your portfolio of case studies.

  8. Social Media Consulting Business Plan [Sample Template for 2022]

    1. Industry Overview Social media consulting falls under social media marketing. Players in this industry provide internet marketing and search engine optimization (SEO) consultancy services.

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    1. Master The Skill 2. Build Your Portfolio 3. Find Your Target Clients 4. Make A Plan 5. Set Your Rates 6. Create A Digital Business Card Use Zapped To Create Your vCard 7. Develop A Pitch Deck 8. Get Testimonials 9. Get The Word Out 10. Stay Up To Date Final Thoughts Related Articles: 13 Creative Photography Business Card Ideas

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    A business plan provides a snapshot of your social media marketing agency as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

  13. Social Media Marketing Business Plan: Guide & Template (2024)

    Social Media Marketing Business Plan Outline This is the standard social media marketing business plan outline which will cover all important sections that you should include in your business plan. Executive Summary The Business Management Customers Business Target 3 Year profit forecast Company Summary Company Owner

  14. How to Start a Social Media Consulting Business

    Start a Social Media Consulting Business. Create a business plan. Select a business name. Choose a business structure. Form your business. Create internal policies. Get an EIN and register for taxes. Open a bank account. Obtain required licenses and permits.

  15. How to Start a Social Media Consulting Business in 2024

    1: Acquire necessary social media consulting skills As a consultant, your social media clients view you as an expert in all things social media. You can only provide value if you've got it within you. Take time to learn everything there is in social media marketing. For instance, you need to:

  16. 30-Day Social Media Plan [Template]

    Day 1: Establish goals for social Establishing clear social media goals is the first step toward transforming your strategy. Determine exactly what you want social to achieve. Here are several examples of goals you might consider: Drive website traffic Raise brand awareness Boost brand engagement Generate new leads Nurture leads

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    View Our Digital Services Marketing or advertising yourself on social media, however, isn't easy. Social media consulting services from WebFX can change that. With our experienced social media consultants, your company can receive expert advice tailored to your brand, audience, industry, and goals.

  18. Social Media Management Business Plan [2024]

    The startup summary, as highlighted by our social media consulting business plan is as follows: The detailed startup requirements are given below: Start-up Expenses. Legal. $55 300. Consultants. $0. Insurance. $32 750.

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  22. 4 Steps to Build a Successful Social Media Strategy to Grow Your Business

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  25. Social Media Consultant Business Plan and SWOT Analysis

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