Choose an agency that can show real pages it manages, explains what you get each month in writing, measures enquiries rather than only likes, and lets you keep ownership of your pages and ad account. Avoid anyone who sells followers or promises a fixed number of customers.
1. Ask to see pages they actually run
A good agency can show you live Facebook and Instagram pages it manages, ideally for businesses like yours. Look at how regularly they post, whether the reels look professional and whether comments get replies.
2. Get the monthly work in writing
Ask exactly how many posts, reels and stories you get each month, who writes the captions, who shoots the photos or videos and how quickly messages are answered. A clear list prevents disappointment later.
3. Separate management fee from ad budget
Page management and paid ads are two different things. The ad budget should be paid by you directly to Meta from your own ad account; the agency's fee should be separate and stated clearly.
4. Measure enquiries, not only likes
Likes and followers are nice, but what matters is how many people message, call or visit. Ask how the agency will track WhatsApp messages, calls and website enquiries, and what report you will receive every month.
5. Keep ownership of your accounts
Your Facebook page, Instagram account and Meta ad account must stay in your name, with the agency added as a partner or admin. Never hand over your only login.
6. Start with a trial period
Agree on a first month or quarter with clear goals, review the results together and then decide. A confident agency will not insist on a long lock-in from day one.
Do it yourself: checklist
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Mistakes to avoid
- Paying for fake followers or likes
- Giving away your only login
- Judging only by follower count
- No written list of monthly work
- Mixing ad budget into the agency fee
Questions
How much does social media management cost in Kolkata?
At StreamOn, social media management starts from ₹5,000. The price depends on how many posts and reels you need and whether shoots are included; ad budget is separate and paid to Meta directly.
How long before social media brings customers?
Regular posting builds trust over two to three months. If you need enquiries sooner, a small, well-targeted Meta ad budget alongside the posts usually helps.
Do I need to be on every platform?
No. Most local businesses do well with Instagram, Facebook and their Google profile. Add YouTube or LinkedIn only if your customers are actually there.
No time to do this yourself?
StreamOn, in Birati near Kolkata Airport, does this work for shops, clinics and sellers across Kolkata. Tell us about your business and we will send a clear quotation.
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Written by Somnath Banerjee, founder of StreamOn · Published 2026-10-24 · Updated 2026-10-24