The Pros and Cons of Using the Youngest, Newest Member of Staff to Formulate Your SME Social Media Strategy

Introduction

In the dynamic world of social media, businesses are constantly seeking innovative strategies to stay ahead. One approach that's gaining traction is leveraging the youngest, newest members of staff to drive a company's social media strategy. But is this a wise move? Let's delve into the pros and cons.

Pros of Using the Youngest, Newest Staff Member

1. Fresh Perspective: Younger staff often bring a fresh, unfiltered perspective to the table. They can introduce novel ideas that seasoned professionals might overlook.For example, think of Snapchat. A few years ago, many businesses dismissed it as a mere teen app. But a younger team member might have recognized its potential for brand engagement early on.
2. Native Digital Experience: Growing up in the digital age, younger staff are often more adept at navigating social media platforms and understanding their nuances.
3. Authentic Engagement: Younger generations value authenticity. They can craft messages that resonate with their peers, leading to genuine engagement.Remember the viral TikTok trends? They're often driven by younger users who understand the platform's heartbeat.
4. Cost-Effective: New employees, especially those in entry-level positions, might be more cost-effective than hiring a specialized social media strategist.

Cons of Using the Youngest, Newest Staff Member

1. Lack of Experience: While they might be social media savvy, they may lack the broader business experience necessary to align social strategies with company goals.
2. Risk of Miscommunication: Without proper training, there's a risk that the brand message might be miscommunicated or misrepresented.Consider the backlash some brands have faced due to ill-advised tweets or posts. Would an experienced professional have made the same mistake?
3. Over-reliance on Trends: While staying trendy is essential, a strategy built solely on trends can lack depth and long-term vision.
4. Potential for Burnout: Managing a company's social media is a significant responsibility. Placing this on a new hire without support can lead to stress and burnout.

Conclusion

So, should you entrust your SME's social media strategy to the youngest, newest member of your team? The answer isn't black and white. While there are undeniable benefits, there are also potential pitfalls.

If you're considering this approach, ensure that there's a balance. Perhaps pair the new hire with a mentor. This way, you harness the fresh perspective of the younger generation while ensuring the strategy aligns with broader business goals.

What do you think? Are you ready to give the youngest member of your team a shot at shaping your social media future? Remember, every decision comes with its set of opportunities and challenges. Weigh them wisely and take informed actions.