Social savvy isn't just about being on the right social networks; it's about knowing how to communicate and troubleshoot on them, too. These waters can be choppy; hence, more and more companies are seeking social community managers with the expertise to navigate them.

To help companies find just the right managers to steer their social outreach, Maria Ogneva, writing at Social Media Today, offers a checklist of 12 characteristics to look for in a CM.

Ogneva suggests you seek social types who exhibit:

• Passion. This is the most important characteristic in a person dealing with a time-consuming, people-facing job, she notes.
• Domain expertise and credibility. Many tech skills can be taught, but do evaluate candidates' professional cred. How are they faring in their own online social sphere? Do they share with others, or merely broadcast?
• Strategic thinking. Community management isn't just a fringe department; it's a reflection of your corporate spirit, warts and all. A good CM knows how to drive the evolution of that spirit without frustrating employees and clients.

Ogneva also outlines how companies can equip CMs for success. She suggests you offer:

• C-suite support. Make sure that social is embraced by your organization and looked upon as a strategic endeavor.
• Sensible work hours. Social is 24/7. Give your CM the flexibility to work at appropriate times and locations.
• Feedback tolerance. The CM will gain unique insights from the community's point of view; listen and learn—even when it's uncomfortable.

The Po!nt: Great CMs are born and made. Take care to hire the right CM personality types—then provide ongoing support and flexibility as they work their magic. (To start your CM off right, we recommend David Armano's community management scenario map.) Good luck!

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