Have you hugged a social media manager today?

"A social media manager is the individual in an organization trusted with monitoring, contributing to, filtering, measuring and otherwise guiding the social media presence of a brand, product, individual or corporation. Social media managers are often found in the marketing and public relations departments of large organizations." (source: WhatIs.com)

Many social media managers are also found in Internet cafes, co-working spaces, and, even at their kitchen tables.  These are the managers who take on this role as volunteers for organizations they belong to or for causes they hold near and dear to their hearts. Juggling the responsibilities of their personal lives, their real life jobs and the marketing tasks they agreed to do for little or no monetary compensation is no easy feat.  

While they may enjoy what they do for these organizations and causes; a hug, pat on the back or a simple acknowledgment of a job well done goes a long way. Don't make the assumption that because they enjoy being immersed in social media, they are willing to take on every task thrown at them.  As with any volunteer, there is the possibility of burnout; especially when they are not acknowledged for the work they do.

So the next time your organization meets, acknowledge those who volunteer what should be their "me time" to promoting your events and good news.  Giving them a hug, a pat on the back or, even, a cup of coffee can go a long way.