Marketing is an integral part of your business’s success, if utilized correctly. Making the jump to hire a marketing agency can provide you with the benefits of a strong marketing strategy, while being able to focus your energy on the other factors that go into running a business. Unfortunately, there are some agencies out there that may seem promising on the outside, but then come to find out they’re a nightmare to work with. That’s why we’ve put together a list of things to consider when hiring a marketing agency to help you make the right choice for your business.
Do They Offer What You Need
Most businesses look to marketing agencies when they find the creative strategy behind a marketing plan is too overwhelming to handle in-house. You’ll want to evaluate your needs from an agency thoroughly before you start your research, because when it comes to digital marketing, it pays to be on the same page. You might want to consider what working with an agency will look like long-term, as well. Depending on what services you’re in the market for, you might find yourself wanting more creative work done by them in the future, so make sure they’re a one-stop-shop.
Look for an Agency with Experience in Your Field
When shopping for an agency, consider looking for one that has experience in your industry. Not only will they have an understanding of your pain points, but their expertise will help you craft a marketing strategy catered specifically to your target audience. A strong background in various industries will ensure you're getting the right advice, as well as be steered away from ideas that don’t work.
Are they Results-Driven
Unfortunately, there are many unreliable marketing agencies out there. They can promise you all these results but don’t actually live up to their word. You’ll want to ask an agency for documentation of their results. Reporting is just as important as the work they do each month and keeps everyone accountable as well as shows areas that need room for improvement. Ask what their strategy for achieving results is, what will they do that separates them from other agencies?
Is Their Reporting Effective?
As mentioned above, reporting is crucial to establishing results with your agency. The last thing you need is an agency who makes robust promises and then fails to report back to you with results. Some agency’s timelines on reporting are different, but you should always be kept in the loop. A reputable agency should provide you with a baseline report, then customize it to the goals you want to achieve.
Is Their Pricing Fair?
When choosing a digital marketing agency, a lower price does not necessarily mean a better deal. If you come across an agency that’s quoting a lower price than the rest, ask them how they manage to keep them so low while still offering quality service. This doesn’t mean you need to pay top dollar for an agency, but the chances are a higher priced marketing agency is going to be more willing to dedicate more resources to your campaign because they have the budget to do so. Hiring a marketing agency is worth the price, as long as you both aren’t cutting corners. If you do, you’ll end up paying to fix it down the line.
A Few More Thing to Consider
Do they have solid reviews? One more obvious way to find out about an agency is to look at reviews. Seeing how other people experienced being their customer can give you an insight of what it would be like working with them.
Do they market themselves well? If you’re looking for an agency do website redesign and you can’t navigate theirs, look elsewhere.
Some things don't work out. At the end of the day, you’re entering a business relationship with an agency. If they aren’t meeting the expectations you established at the beginning, it’s okay to leave.
