Social media is a completely separate function of business, and as its usefulness expands, so do the tools available to manage it effectively. Below are three tools to help your communications staff get the most out of online engagement:

Sprout Social: Allows businesses to get the most out of social media with tools for publishing, engagement, and analytics. Some features include letting you pre-schedule posts and track the growth of social audiences. Companies can sign up for a free trial.

Manage Flitter: Get the most out of your Twitter account with this tool, which allows you to target the right followers for your brand, manage engagement, and keep track of who unfollows you.

Klout: How do you know if you are posting shareable content? Klout scores you on the level of engagement for each of your social media accounts—Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and so on. It is a great asset in understanding the quantity versus quality of what your company is posting and enables you to adapt your communications strategy. Plus, it suggests content based on your desired demographic that can help grow your audience and keep your current one interested.