What You Should Know Before Hiring A Marketing Firm
By Katarina Knoff
Outsourcing to a marketing firm can be an extremely beneficial decision for many companies. When it comes down to dollars and expertise, marketing firms are a great way to gain an outside perspective that may be able to identify issues that might be difficult to see internally. Additionally, many small and mid-size business owners find themselves in a situation where adding full-time marketing staff would lead to an imbalance in the company or overly tax the operating budget.
Whatever the case may be, once you decide to outsource, there are a few things that you should know before hiring a marketing firm.
1. Identify What You Want to Accomplish
If you go into the relationship with no idea of what it is you want and how much you want to spend, it will be difficult for a firm to generate content that will satisfy you. They should be included to suggest services you may not be interested in without knowing about them. Doing your research and being clear what you want out of the relationship will help both your company and the marketing firm get on the same page and make sure your dollars are spent on what is most effective.
2. Learn About the Different Services They Provide
Like almost any industry, different marketing firms provide specific services. Some may be a one-stop-shop for all of your marketing needs, while others may specialize in one or two facets of the industry. Often if a firm doesn’t offer a specific service, they may have a partner firm that they can recommend. It is best to do some research to find what type of firm will offer you the services that interest you most.
3. Look up Reviews and Previous work
Try to seek a marketing firm that has experience with businesses of similar size and industry so that you know they are knowledgable about your needs. You will want to look them up on review sites such as Facebook, Yelp and Google Reviews to read first-hand experiences of their clients to determine if they are a match for your company.
4. Set Clear Expectations of Your Availability & Involvement
Different companies hire marketing firms for various reasons. Many times they hire out so that the firm can tackle the entire marketing plan, and they want little involvement in the process. Others like to be along for the ride. It makes for a much smoother process for everyone if the relationship expectations are clear ahead of time to ensure the right amount of communication for both parties.
5. Take Time Making Sure You Feel Comfortable With Their Team
Although you won’t be in the same company, you may be working with multiple marketers, so it is crucial that you feel at ease, and you have compatible personalities with the persons they are putting on your account. If not, there is a considerable risk of issues occurring down the road. It is best to trust your gut and to make sure you have found the right fit.
6. Make Sure to Read the Contract Carefully
Any reputable and professional firm will provide you with a contract outlining the scope of work they will be providing. Make sure to review these terms carefully and that you fully understand the legally binding document before you sign it.
If you take these steps into consideration, then you should have no issue finding a marketing firm that can relieve stress and help increase sales and revenue. Outsourcing a marketing firm can be a beneficial and exciting step for your company. If you need help, give us a call at 816.500.0018 or email us here!