Doing your own social media feels free. You already have the accounts, a phone and a free design app. But your time isn't free, and neither are the opportunities you miss when posting slips down the to-do list.
Here's what managing your own social media really costs, and how to work out whether it's worth handing over.
Your time is the biggest cost
Four to eight hours a week is typical for a small business. Multiply that by what your time is worth and it's often more than an agency would charge.
Add tools, the learning curve and the cost of an inconsistent feed, and DIY is rarely the cheapest option.
Six costs of doing it yourself
Most business owners only count the first one.
Your time
Planning, writing, designing, posting and replying, every week.
Tools and subscriptions
Design, scheduling and stock photo tools quickly add up.
The learning curve
Algorithms, formats and features change constantly.
Inconsistency
When work gets busy, posting stops. Quiet feeds lose trust.
Missed messages
Slow replies to enquiries mean lost customers.
Opportunity cost
Hours spent on social media are hours not spent on paying work.
Work out your own cost
A quick sum shows what DIY social media really costs you each month.
Note how long social media actually takes for two weeks.
What would you earn, or save, doing paid work in those hours?
List every subscription you pay for.
Set your monthly total against the cost of a managed plan.
Hand it over from £99+VAT a month
Our plans include planning, design, posting and replies, with a dedicated UK-based account manager and no long contract.
Read our guide to outsourcing your social media or see the platforms we manage.
Cost FAQs
How long does it take to manage social media properly?
For most small businesses, planning, creating, posting and replying takes four to eight hours a week, more if you make video. That's before any time spent learning the platforms.
What tools do I need to manage social media myself?
Usually a design tool, a scheduling tool and perhaps a stock photo subscription. Many have free versions, but paid plans quickly add up.
Is it cheaper to hire someone in-house?
Rarely for a small business. A part-time employee costs salary, National Insurance, pension, holidays and training, and one person can't be an expert in everything.
How much does outsourcing social media cost?
Our plans start at £99+VAT a month. See are social media packages worth it for a full breakdown.
What's the hidden cost of doing it yourself?
Inconsistency. When you're busy, posting stops, and an inactive feed can put customers off more than no feed at all.
