Forum Discussion
The first thing I look at is whether they're consistently achieving the kind of results I'm hoping to achieve myself. It's one thing to talk about social media strategy, it's another to demonstrate it through your own content and client results.
I also recommend attending a free webinar, workshop, or training session if they offer one. It's a great way to evaluate their expertise, communication style, strategy, and whether their approach aligns with your business goals before making an investment.
I'm also a big believer in strategy calls. Come prepared with questions about their process, reporting, expectations, industry experience, and examples of proven results. The best marketers I've encountered aren't usually the ones who oversell, they let their work, results, and client success stories speak for themselves.
Ultimately, I'd look for someone who understands your niche, has a documented process, and can clearly explain how they'll help you achieve your goals.