What do you do if your social media team manager lacks key qualities?

As a social media marketing expert, it's crucial to address specific issues with your manager. Is it their inconsistent feedback, limited strategic direction, or failure to recognize achievements? Identifying these concerns objectively can lead to better communication and results.

- Observe team dynamics, monitor performance, seek feedback, look for signs of disengagement, assess communication channels, review processes, evaluate leadership style, seek external perspective, stay informed, and document and address concerns with HR or upper management.

If your social media team manager lacks key qualities, it's important to address the situation constructively. Start by providing feedback in a respectful and specific manner, highlighting the areas where improvement is needed. Offer support and resources to help them develop the necessary skills or competencies. Encourage open communication and provide opportunities for professional development and training. If the situation does not improve, consider discussing the issue with higher management or HR to explore potential solutions, such as coaching or leadership training, or, if necessary, reassigning roles.

- Avoid negative attitudes. - Offer solutions before you told him / her the way (s) on how the team's results are being influenced.

Try to have a conversation with them. They will probably be in 3D mode (defend, deflect and deny) acknowledge your strengths, deficiencies, and how you can help improve the situation by providing feedback and solutions rather than just pointing the finger.

When communicating concerns to your manager, as a social media marketing expert, focus on "I" statements, like "I feel unclear on expectations." Share specific examples and suggest solutions, fostering a constructive dialogue that benefits the team's performance.

- Choose the right time and place for a private meeting with your manager. - Be specific and objective when articulating your concerns. - Use "I" statements to express your thoughts and feelings without blaming. - Explain how the manager's lacking qualities are impacting the team and organization. - Offer constructive feedback and suggestions for improvement. - Listen actively to your manager's perspective and seek clarification if needed. - Maintain professionalism and a respectful tone throughout the conversation. - Follow up with your manager to reaffirm commitment and set expectations. - Seek support from HR or a trusted mentor if necessary. - Document the conversation for future reference and accountability.

- Ask your online community can be a solution - I would recommend international online communities such The Geeokout Group by Matt Navarra or Mari Smiths Group.

If your manager isn't responsive to feedback, seek support elsewhere. Connect with colleagues, mentors, or industry peers for advice. Explore online resources like courses, webinars, or blogs to enhance skills. Join professional networks to exchange insights with fellow social media professionals.

- HR can help with management concerns, mentors offer advice, colleagues provide empathy, professional groups offer support, coaches provide strategies, online communities give insights, resources offer strategies, training programs equip with skills, self-reflection identifies growth areas, legal advice may be needed for serious issues. - Prioritize well-being and seek guidance from trusted sources when navigating workplace challenges.

Adapt by being proactive, flexible, and autonomous. Propose ideas and initiatives to benefit the team. Motivate with goals, celebrations, and rewards. Maintain a positive relationship with your manager and avoid conflicts or negativity.

Adjust, Adjust, Adjust! It's confusing to see a brand continue to use the same strategy or not be flexible to new content ideas when theirs isn't performing well. Yes, it might tread the line that you're uncomfortable with or might not understand (see: memes or tiktok trends), but your audience is smarter than you think and LOVES to see something outside the norm- change it up!

Evaluate your options for career satisfaction. Consider internal transfers for a new manager or explore external job opportunities. Freelancing, consulting, or entrepreneurship are also viable paths. Choose what aligns best with your growth as a social media professional.

Something to consider is that sometimes a challenging relationship with a manager can also be an opportunity for personal growth. It might push you to develop resilience, communication skills, or the ability to navigate difficult situations. Reflecting on what you've learned from the experience, even if it's been tough, can be valuable for your professional development.