As a creative recruitment agency operating across the marketing, design and digital sectors, we understand the importance of social media. Whether done on a daily basis as part of a communications, stakeholder engagement or brand management strategy, or used on a wider basis, its impact has radicalised the sector over the last few years – but you already knew that.

It’s important that candidates remain one step ahead of the curve and abreast of changes across social platforms. However, there is one additional issue in particular which always raises its head: content planning.

There are two schools of thought. The first believe that content planning is vital to ensure that your organisation doesn’t miss out on key announcements. By planning ahead, it’s possible to greater align your social content across all platforms, strengthening the message you get across.

Others, however, think social works best when done on an ad-hoc basis. Not tying yourself down allows channels to remain fresh. Respond to announcements with content on your service, or draft a quick sector-specific LinkedIn post in response to legislative changes, industry reports or trade white papers.

There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to social, something which becomes increasingly important with the development of new platforms in 2016. The increase in people using Periscope – 2m people per day, according to the latest figures and Meerkat – which announced in March this year its intentions to launch a video social network – will mean these platforms continue to push the front runners, with flexible functionality making an already streamlined sector that little bit more responsive to the needs of marketers.

As such, candidates should remember that, while content plans may offer stability and support, social will always resonate that little bit more when it’s responsive. By all means, use content planners and ensure you’re keeping up regular postings across all platforms (remember the 80/20 rule: in terms of content promotion and creation – it’s easier, and more effective, to promote content that people read and enjoy than it is to create more) but dovetail this with creative flair, creating concise and engaging copy tailored to your audience when you think it’s most merited. This will ensure your content remains key.

If you are a social whizz and want to take the next step on your career journey, get in touch today on 01242 252337 to find out how Creative Mettle can help you.