Request for Qualifications (RFQ): Social Media Specialist

The Economic Development Council (EDC) Team Jefferson is seeking a Social Media Specialist to provide comprehensive social media management, marketing education, and content creation services on a contract basis. This role is essential for elevating local businesses, fostering relationships between the EDC and the community, and increasing the visibility of the EDC’s programs and initiatives. The selected contractor will work year-round with the EDC team to implement strategic marketing efforts aligned with organizational goals and budget constraints.

This position is funded through the EDC’s marketing budget and is limited to a maximum compensation of $1,800 per month, inclusive of an ad budget. The contractor’s role will focus on building trust, engaging audiences, and promoting economic opportunities throughout Jefferson County and Washington State.

Background

The EDC Team Jefferson supports economic development through technical assistance, resource access, and community-focused initiatives. As the designated Associate Development Organization (ADO) for Jefferson County, the EDC works to strengthen local businesses and foster sustainable economic growth.

The Social Media Specialist plays a vital role in enhancing the EDC’s communication efforts, promoting local businesses, and building public awareness of EDC programs. By leveraging digital tools, this position supports the EDC’s mission of fostering a resilient and connected local economy.

Scope of Services1. Objective

To provide consistent, professional social media management, content creation, and marketing support that elevates the EDC’s visibility, engages the local business community, and builds trust within Jefferson County. These efforts also increase the EDC's understanding of local businesses to better provide resources to the business community and elevate a growing, interconnected business network.

2. Tasks to be Performed

2.1 Social Media Management:

• Create, schedule, and manage engaging content across EDC’s social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn).

• Monitor and respond to comments and messages in a timely, professional manner.

• Develop and execute paid social media ad campaigns within the monthly budget allocation.

2.2 Newsletter, Press release, & PSA Creation:

• Draft and distribute a monthly newsletter featuring EDC programs, local business highlights, and community updates.

• Draft and collaborate on monthly press releases and PSAs as needed.

2.3 Marketing Classes:

• Design and deliver marketing workshops tailored to the needs of local businesses, focusing on digital marketing strategies and tools.

2.4 Analytics and Reporting:

• Prepare 2 semi-annual marketing analytics reports for EDC funders, including social media metrics, campaign performance, and engagement data.

• Provide actionable insights to enhance the effectiveness of marketing efforts.

2.5 Community Engagement:

• Highlight local businesses through social media features, building relationships and trust within the community.

• Collaborate with the EDC team to ensure messaging aligns with organizational goals.

Performance 

The Social Media Specialist will:

• Adhere to deadlines for newsletters, reports, and social media campaigns.

• Ensure all content aligns with the EDC’s mission and values.

• Demonstrate professionalism and cultural competence in interactions with businesses and the community.

• Provide regular updates to the EDC team to ensure alignment with organizational goals.

Preliminary Timeline

• RFP Issued: February 15, 2025

• Proposal Deadline: February 28, 2025

• Selection Announcement: March 7, 2025

• Contract Start Date: March 15, 2025

• Contract Period: 18 months, with potential for renewal based on funding and performance.

Estimated Budget

• Compensation: $35/hour, depending on experience.

Submittal Requirements

Jefferson County resident with experience marketing within Jefferson County,  including microenterprises, rural, and indigenous-owned businesses, preferred. 

Please send a brief cover letter, resume, and the following documentation (A, B, C) to admin@edcteamjefferson.org.

A. Approach

1. Methodology: Describe your approach to social media management, content creation, and community engagement.

2. Work Plan: Provide a detailed plan outlining how you will meet the deliverables listed above.

3. Ad Budget Strategy: Explain how you will allocate and manage the ad budget effectively.

B. Related Experience and References

Provide examples of recent, directly related experience (within the last four years). Include:

• Client name, project title, and/or company/organization

• Description of the work performed for events or entities in Jefferson County

• Project dates and outcomes

• At least three references

C. Statement of Experience

Provide a narrative of your experience in social media management, digital marketing, and community engagement. Highlight relevant expertise, such as workshop delivery, analytics reporting, and trust-building within Jefferson County.

Evaluation Criteria