What to Know Before Hiring a Digital Marketing Agency
When it comes to digital marketing, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Every business is different, and so are its marketing needs. That’s why it’s important to do your research before hiring a digital marketing agency. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Define Your Goals
When considering a digital marketing agency, it’s important to have clear goals in mind. There are many different digital marketing companies and each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Before hiring a specific agency, you’ll want to make sure that they understand the specific needs of your business and budget, and can help you achieve your desired results.
When defining your goals, think about what it is you want to achieve through digital marketing and consider the following:
Are you looking to attract more customers? Increase ROI? Decrease churn? What are the benefits of using digital marketing vs. the costs associated with doing so? Do some research into current industry trends and how they might be affecting your business – this will give you an idea of areas where investing in digital marketing could be worthwhile. Determine whether or not you need full blown online campaigns (eg: website design/development, SEM Ads), direct email acquisition, or a combination of all three. This will help distinguish which type(s) of agencies would be best suited for helping you reach your objectives. Be transparent about what expectations you and the agency have for each other, including timelines for results, budget information, etc.. Doing this will help ensure both parties are on the same page from the start and there are no misunderstandings down the road.
Check Credentials
One of the initial things to do when looking for a digital marketing agency is to make sure they have the proper credentials. While not all agencies are required to have formal education or experience in digital marketing, most adhere to rigorous criteria that sets them apart from their less-qualified counterparts.
Below are some of the best practices for checking qualifications:
Ask about experience and track record: Ask how long the agency has been in business, what types of clients they’ve worked with, and what kind of results they’ve achieved. The best agencies will be able to point out specific projects they’ve been involved in and share case studies of successful campaigns they’ve designed.
Check references: Ask industry veterans if they would be willing to provide a positive reference for your prospect. It’s important to get names that you can trust; don’t choose an agent simply because they have connections in your industry.
Review online resources: Many firms offer online reviews as part of their profile. Check these reviews before making a decision on who to work with. Bad ratings can indicate problems with service quality or delivery, which is something you want to avoid at all costs.
Request and Evaluate a Proposal
In continuing your selection of a digital marketing agency, check to see if the agency has any certifications or awards. This will give you some assurance that the agency is experienced and knowledgeable in the field. Once you’ve researched the agency’s services. Make and read the reviews, you’ll want to compare pricing before making a decision. Request a proposal from each of the contending agencies. This provides a better idea of what they can offer you and how much it will cost.
After you’ve received proposals from prospective agencies, make sure they’ve successfully executed online campaigns for both small and large businesses. Furthermore, assess the team’s expertise in different areas of digital marketing, such as website design, SEO, Social Media Management, etc. Finally, verify that the team is available on a set timeline and can commit enough resources to your campaign.
Make Your Decision
After asking and contemplating these important questions, and carefully reviewing the proposals, it’s up to you to decide which digital marketing agency offers you the most comprehensive package in servicing the needs of your business at a price you afford.
Conclusion
When it comes to hiring a digital marketing agency, doing your research and knowing what you want are key. Make sure to check an agency’s credentials and ask for a proposal before making your final decision. Working with a reputable and experienced agency can help you reach your business goals.
When you’re ready for your business to become a bigger brand, get noticed, reach more customers, make an impression, and get more sales, through customized marketing strategies from proven experts, start your search where you’re sure to make the most IMPACT. Serving over one hundred happy clients for nearly ten years, with a 100% satisfaction guaranteed, IMPACT Digital Marketing has your best interests in mind when delivering on your goals. Get started, request a quote today!
