1. Strategy, not just posting
A good package starts with a plan: who you're talking to, what you want them to do, which platforms matter and what your content pillars are. Ask for a written strategy in the first month, and a refresh every quarter.
2. The content itself — in numbers
This is where packages differ most. Get the exact monthly numbers in writing:
- Static posts and carousels
- Reels and short-form videos — and whether editing, motion graphics and captions are included
- Stories
- Copywriting and hashtags for every post
- Number of revision rounds per piece
Also ask who creates the raw footage. Shoots, product photography and on-site filming are often charged separately.
3. A content calendar you approve
You should see the month's content before it goes live, in a shared calendar or tracker. Good agencies send the next month's plan a week or two before it starts, with space for your feedback.
4. Community management
Replying to comments and messages is where followers turn into customers. Check whether it's included, which hours it's covered, how quickly replies are sent, and what gets escalated to you — complaints, pricing questions or bookings.
5. Paid social — included or extra?
Organic reach alone is limited for most businesses. Ask whether running and optimising Meta, LinkedIn or other ads is included, and keep the agency's fee separate from the actual ad spend so you always know where your money goes.
6. Reporting that means something
A monthly report should connect activity to business results: reach and engagement, yes, but also profile visits, website clicks, enquiries, bookings or sales. And it should end with what will change next month.
Red flags to avoid
- Guaranteed follower numbers — usually a sign of fake or bought followers.
- No clarity on how many reels or posts you'll get.
- The agency owning your page or ad account.
- Reports full of likes with no link to enquiries or sales.
Need help with this?
Beyond Gluck is an integrated marketing and creative agency in Gurugram, India, working with brands in India and abroad. Our team handles social media management along with strategy, creative, digital and media — see our full list of services.
Book a free 30-minute call or browse our packages.
Frequently asked questions
How many posts per month is enough?
Consistency matters more than volume. For most small businesses, a steady weekly rhythm with a good share of reels works better than daily posts that are rushed.
Should reels be part of every package?
For most consumer brands, yes. Short-form video is where much of the reach on Instagram and Facebook comes from. Check how many are included and who edits them.
Is ad spend included in the package fee?
Usually not. Agency fees cover management and creative; ad spend is paid directly to the platform. Keep the two separate so you can see exactly what goes into media.