Whether you’re a small business looking to grow or a large company that needs skilled help with marketing and managing your brand online, it can be overwhelming trying to find the right local digital marketing agency to meet your needs.
Here are some tips for reviewing and selecting the best online marketing agency:
Critically examine the agency’s website and social presence
Take a good hard look at the website of every digital media agency you’re thinking of hiring because a good marketing company should have a website that showcases their ability. If their website has strong graphics, excellent content and social media sites that are all active that’s a good sign. You’ll also want to look for authentic client testimonials, links to projects, and evidence they’re tuned in to top marketing trends.
Dig into the agency’s background
Ask about their clients and successes and whether they have a specialty or niche focus. You’ll have to assess whether they are knowledgeable professionals, or just slick salespeople. Ask specific questions about digital marketing services such as strategic planning, social media management, digital advertising, copywriting, conversion optimization, search engine optimization, and analytics. Check their references by asking to speak with a former or current client.
Get to know the agency
Ask who you’ll be communicating with and how frequently you can expect to be in touch. You’ll also want to know how they track their work and budget allocation, as well as how they bill (it could be hourly, monthly, a percentage up front, or perhaps a retainer). Find out who works for them and in what roles as well as if they outsource any aspects of the work.
Look at the evidence
Many marketing companies promise to deliver all kinds of things, so it’s important to know what you can really expect. Make sure you understand what the scope of work will be and how the agency will report back to you on the success of your project. Be wary of big promises that are short on detail and vague milestones. A trustworthy marketing agency will be candid about their experience with companies in your field and offer clear information about the work they will provide.
Talk about agency fees
It can be uncomfortable talking about money but you need to find out what the services of an agency are going to cost you. Be realistic in your expectations because the old adage that “you get what you pay for” is still true. While you want to get the most for your budget, spend wisely by sourcing an agency that has demonstrated success and satisfied clients. Marketing experts with experience, creativity, and skill are also going to be able to clearly define what their services will cost.
Look for a good fit
Working with a digital marketing agency will ideally be a good partnership with people you trust and like working with. Are they responsive and easy to access? Knowledgeable and friendly? Technically skilled? Pay attention to how you feel when you interact with them online, by phone, or in person and what their online reviews say about their work.
At Stir we leverage local talent and creative genius as well as the best digital marketing tools in the business to provide results for our clients around the world. Contact our digital marketing specialists in Vancouver now to find out how we can help you achieve your business goals.