When Outsourcing – Keep it Local

Should you outsource your social media marketing?

Sure you want to save money, but it may cost you big time in the long run! What am I talking about?

Outsourcing your website, graphics, blog and/or social media design/implementation services.

when outsourcing, keep it local!

It starts with your marketing budget. It’s tight, but you know you have to have an online presence with a website and social media. You also need a logo, banners and cover graphics. This can run between a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on your needs.

Getting someone outside the U.S. may be tempting, especially when sites like Fivver offer work for just $5, but you may get someone from anywhere like the Philippines, India, Pakistan, Indonesia, or Bangladesh. Here are the pitfalls that you may encounter – and I’ve had several clients with these problems and it cost them a lot to get them corrected!

  1. English is not their first language. You do not want bad grammar or spelling errors on your website!
  2. They don’t understand American culture or social media. Remember – it’s your image!
  3. They don’t know Google’s proper Search Engine Optimization (SEO) protocols – you do want to get found, right?
  4. Customer service is a nightmare with the time zone differences. Plus, it’s had to understand them over the phone.
  5. If there is a problem, you have very little, if no recourse. You cannot contact the Better Business Bureau (BBB) because they don’t have a U.S. address!
  6. If they’re blogging for you, there is no way they can know your business like you know your business. Moreover, how do you know the content they’re providing is unique to you and not mass-produced? Don’t trust AI!

Keep it Local!

  1. Get a professional. Don’t count on a relative to do it for you – it’ll never get done!
  2. Get at least 3 quotes. Compare apples to apples.
  3. Do your research! A knowledgeable consumer has a better chance of not getting “taken” by unscrupulous service providers. There are businesses out there who prey on those who don’t know what they don’t know.
  4. If you get an intern, make sure they’re with a reputable school.
  5. Get references. Ask to see samples of their work. Even students have had to do assignments for school.
  6. Ask someone you trust for a referral.
  7. Google them and see if there are any adverse reviews.
  8. Check the BBB. Have they had any complaints? Were they resolved?
  9. Look at their social media. How often do they post? How many followers do they have?

Keeping it local will also help your local economy.

Organizations like Local First Arizona encourage doing business with local businesses – large and small. Check their online directory.

If you don’t feel you’re getting good service from that foreign “service provider”, get a free analysis of your website and social media efforts and a 15-minute phone consultation.


Related: Don’t Take Shortcuts!

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