Social Media Management Tools: A Comprehensive Guide for Small Businesses

In an era where digital presence is paramount, social media tools emerge as indispensable allies, empowering small businesses to not only survive but flourish in the dynamic world of online commerce.

As we step into the fresh canvas of 2024, one thing remains constant in the digital realm – the pivotal role of social media in small business success.

Seamlessly managing multiple platforms, these tools streamline operations, ensuring a consistent and strategic online presence. With features like scheduled posts, advanced analytics, and visual content creation, social media tools enable small businesses to engage, grow, and thrive in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Beyond simplifying the complexities of online interactions, these tools amplify the impact of marketing efforts, unlocking new avenues for customer engagement and brand visibility.

Watch: Why you need a professional digital marketer

Let’s find the perfect social media marketing tools for small businesses in 2024;

1. Hootsuite Social Media Management Tool for Small Businesses

Founded in 2008 by Ryan Holmes, Hootsuite has etched its name in the digital history books as a pioneer in social media management. Born out of the idea of simplifying the complexities of managing multiple social media accounts, Hootsuite quickly gained traction as businesses sought a centralized platform for their digital presence. The company’s journey mirrors the rapid evolution of the social media landscape, adapting to changes, introducing innovative features, and becoming a trusted partner for millions of users worldwide.

Strengths of Hootsuite Social Media Management Tool in 2024

• Multi-Platform Mastery: Seamless management across various social media platforms.
• Scheduling Savvy: Advanced scheduling for a consistent online presence.

Weaknesses of Hootsuite Social Media Management Tool in 2024

• Learning Curve: Initial learning curve for new users.

Pricing of Hootsuite Social Media Management Tool in 2024

Hootsuite offers a range of plans starting from $149/month, with custom enterprise solutions available. Each plan comes with a 30-day free trial.

Best For: Small businesses juggling multiple platforms.

2. Buffer Social Media Management Tool for Small Businesses

Established in 2010 by Joel Gascoigne and Leo Widrich, Buffer has become a cornerstone in the realm of social media management. From its origins in the United Kingdom to its current global presence, Buffer has grown from a bootstrapped startup to a widely embraced tool for individuals and businesses alike. The founders’ commitment to transparency and a remote-first approach set the stage for Buffer’s unique company culture, fostering a global team of talented individuals. Buffer’s journey reflects the fast-paced evolution of social media, with the platform adapting and expanding its features to meet the changing needs of its user base. 

Strengths of Buffer Social Media Management Tool in 2024

• User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive for beginners.
• Analytics Lite: Basic analytics for valuable insights.

Weaknesses of Buffer Social Media Management Tool in 2024

• Advanced Features: May lack advanced functionalities.

Pricing of Buffer Social Media Management Tool in 2024

Buffer’s plans start from $6/month, with a free plan available.

Best For: Small businesses prioritizing user-friendliness.

3. Later  Social Media Management Tool for Small Businesses

This tool was founded by Carlos Virella, Cindy Chen, Ian MacKinnon, Matt Smith, Roger Patterson. Originating from the founders’ personal challenges in scheduling Instagram posts, Later (formerly Latergramme) quickly evolved into a comprehensive social media management platform. Its journey began as the go-to solution for Instagram scheduling, later expanding to include other major platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

What sets Later apart is its emphasis on visual content, catering to the ever-growing demand for captivating visuals in the digital realm. As a company that understands the visual-centric nature of social media, Later has transformed into a creative hub for businesses and influencers, offering tools for content planning, visual storytelling, and analytics. From its inception in Vancouver, Canada, Later seeks to empower its users to tell their stories visually and strategically in the evolving landscape of social media.

Strengths of Later Social Media Management Tool in 2024

• Visual Content Scheduler: Specialized in scheduling visual content.
• Link in Bio Feature: Directing audience to specific content.

Weaknesses of Later Social Media Management Tool in 2024

• Platform Limitations: Focused on visual platforms.

Pricing of Later Social Media Management Tool in 2024

Later’s plans begin at $25/month.

Best For: Businesses with a strong emphasis on visual content.

4. Sprout Social Social Media Management Tool for Small Businesses in 2024

Sprout Social, founded in 2010 by Justyn Howard, Aaron Rankin, and Gil Lara, has solidified its position as a leading social media management platform. Born from the founders’ desire to bridge the gap between businesses and their online audience, Sprout Social’s journey reflects a commitment to fostering meaningful connections in the digital age. 

Strengths of Sprout Social Social Media Management Tool in 2024

• Advanced Analytics: In-depth insights into audience behavior.
• Customer Engagement: Robust tools for two-way engagement.

Weaknesses of Sprout Social Social Media Management Tool in 2024

• Pricing: Advanced features come at a higher cost.

Pricing of Sprout Social Social Media Management Tool in 2024

Sprout Social’s plans start from $249/month.

Best For: Growing small businesses ready to invest in advanced analytics.

5. Zoho Social Social Media Management Tool for Small Businesses in 2024

Founded in 2014 as part of the Zoho Corporation, Zoho Social swiftly made its mark in the social media management arena. As an integral component of Zoho’s extensive suite of business software, Zoho Social emerged with the mission of simplifying social media for businesses of all sizes. The platform was conceived to offer a cost-effective yet feature-rich solution, aligning with Zoho’s overarching philosophy of providing accessible tools for businesses to thrive.

Originating in India, Zoho Social has grown to serve a global user base, emphasizing collaboration, analytics, and a user-friendly interface. Over the years, Zoho Social has adapted to the dynamic needs of businesses in the ever-evolving digital landscape, solidifying its position as a go-to choice for those seeking an affordable yet powerful social media management solution.

Strengths of Zoho Social

• Budget-Friendly: Cost-effective with a range of features.
• Collaboration Tools: Easy team collaboration.

Weaknesses of Zoho Social

• Learning Curve: May require some learning for new users.

Pricing of Zoho Social in 2024

Zoho Social offers plans starting at $15/month, with free trials available.

Best For: Budget-conscious small businesses with collaborative needs.

Partner with a credible Social Media Marketing Agency for all your Social Media  marketing needs

As we navigate the dynamic landscape of social media in 2024, the demand for a strategic and impactful online presence has never been more crucial. Elevate your business to new heights by partnering with a seasoned social media marketing agency. Whether you’re seeking comprehensive strategy development, engaging content creation, or targeted marketing campaigns, our dedicated social media marketing agency can be your guiding force in the digital realm.

Email us at [email protected] for a quote tailored to your social media goals.