Most social media packages look the same on paper: “12 posts a month”. The difference is what sits behind those posts.
We get asked about packages all the time, usually by a business owner who has been quoted three wildly different prices for what sounds like the same thing. So here’s an honest look at what you should be getting, what changes the cost and how to compare quotes without getting lost.
What’s usually included in a social media management package?
A good package covers planning, content, posting and community management, with a monthly report so you can see what’s working.
Posting is the easy part. The value is in the plan behind it, the content that makes people stop, and someone replying to comments and messages so followers turn into customers.
What changes the price?
Mostly where the content comes from, how many platforms you’re on and how much community management you need.
A package where you supply the photos and the agency writes captions is very different from one where the agency plans and shoots fresh content every month. Neither is wrong. They just aren’t the same product, so they shouldn’t be compared on price alone.
- Content sourceYou supply it, they design it, or they shoot it fresh.
- PlatformsInstagram and Facebook only, or TikTok and LinkedIn too.
- CommunityWhether someone replies to comments and DMs, and how fast.
- AdsWhether boosting and paid ads are included or separate.
“12 posts a month” tells you nothing. Ask what sits behind them.The Digi playbook
Is fresh photo and video content included?
It should be clear in the quote. Many packages only use what you send, so ask who creates the content and how often.
Real content of your team, your space and your customers almost always beats stock images and templates. If your package doesn’t include a shoot, plan how you’ll keep the content fresh, whether that’s a regular shoot day or your team filming on their phones.
Are paid ads part of social media management?
Not always. Organic social and paid social ads are often quoted separately, and the ad spend itself is paid to Meta.
Organic posting keeps your page alive and builds trust. Ads put your best content in front of new people. Most businesses that want enquiries from social end up needing both, so check what’s covered.
What should we ask before signing?
Ask who creates the content, who replies to messages, what the report shows and how long you’re locked in.
A clear agency will answer all of these without hesitation. If the answers are vague, the results usually are too.
Content and social that worked.
A couple of brands where content, social and ads came from one team.
Let’s make it clear.
Tell us where you’re at and we’ll tell you what you actually need. See our social media management page.
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