Blog Consulting, LLC - I have been doing a lot of reading, over the past years, regarding this business of social media, blogs, and such.
One of my personal maxims that holds true in this industry, as in any other, is that you should read the philosophers, hire the generals, and ignore the sheep.
Social Media Philosophers
These are the people who tend to pontificate, and many times with great wisdom, about the merits of social media. Hear them speak at conferences, read their books, and blogs, but by all means, don't hire them for a result orientated project. They tend to shrink, in the heat of the battle.
Social Media Generals
These are people who thrive in the world of results. They love the heat of the battle, and are always thinking, and working towards a very specific result. These are the people you must seek if you mean to have a social media consultant. Make certain, however, that they possess the skills to bring your desired result.
Social Media Sheep
These are the most plentiful in the social media world. They make the most noise, promise the sun, the moon, and the stars, yet back it up with only a dream. Never have they accomplished a result, but merely tout their dreams of success, riches, and stardom. For example, "Make $10,000/day on Twitter". There seems to be no short supply of people who would feign to teach you these skills, yet a quick glimpse at their personal savings accounts would reveal nothing but a charlatan.
Before you consider an investment in a social media consultant, you might want to read my article: "5 Critical Questions to ask before you hire a Social Media Consultant".
An investment in social media is a "must do" task in my opinion, but make certain to hire a general to get you to the finish line.
