Having a Community Manager is in vogue now. But it’s more important than that. I think it’s imperative if your business model is centered on the net.

The big question is what does this role look like & what influence will they have on your organization? What are your goals? Are they a part of marketing or product development? The answer to that question will also help with the decision on salary.

Should you start with someone full time? or start with a part-time person? Is it someone from within your company? or an evangelist? I’m a huge proponent of the community manager working remotely because there are some excellent pro’s to that.

And what will the community manager’s responsibilities be? How much do you trust this person to be involved in shaping your future? (as a hint – remember that they’re interacting with your customers & represent them…)

Finally, how will your community manager measure their success? Note that I did NOT say how will you measure your comm mgr’s success. This is a project oriented type of position & the personality is one of a highly motivated individual. They are already ready to perform don’t put a damper on that out of the chute.

Here are some suggestions going backwards:

  • metrics – try deliverables rather than the traditional 9-5 job (it’s a 7 day/wk job anyway)
  • responsibilities – start with mutually agreed upon goals but be flexible, the role will emerge
  • full time vs part time – so many variables & both have their pro’s & con’s
  • in-house vs remote – I’m convinced that it can be either
  • what department – I really believe that it’s a marketing role that influences many other dept’s
  • salary – I almost forgot that! Consider what department they are in & local wages.

If  you’d like help in defining these questions specifically for your organization’s needs, I’d be glad to discuss them.

What areas did I overlook? Chris Brogan outlined his idea of a community manager.