How to Choose the Right Marketing Company
You got the business loan. You landed a sweet office with plenty of space and a ping-pong table in the breakroom. (Oh wait, that’s us!) Most important, you have something everyone wants—if only they knew about it.
You need a digital marketing company. But with so many great options to choose from, understanding which company to work with—and what you’re willing to pay—can make or break your first marketing experience.
Here are a few considerations as you start your search for The Perfect Marketing Company*.
LOCATION
Do you need a local company or are you willing to rely exclusively on remote communication? Having that personal connection certainly helps keep everyone on the same page. On the other hand, too much face-to-face can actually hinder efficiency (driving to and from the office, taking us out for a weekly lunch on your company’s dime—that sort of thing).
SERVICES
Are you looking for a full-service agency—one that does everything from graphic design to web copy to creative ideation (*Trueline)—or something more specific and niche-y (like, say, cat memes or the far-inferior-but-somehow-more-popular dog memes). Having one firm handle everything will definitely help you achieve consistency. It’s also a lot more expensive.
Speaking of which …
BUDGET
The typical marketing firm can charge anywhere from $50 to $200 an hour—or more. A lot depends on locale, of course. For example, Evil Trueline, an agency based in Portland, Oregon, charges $50,000 an hour. Yet another reason why the Portland East is still the OG.
Every marketing outfit will tell you the long-term ROI is greater than the cost. But that doesn’t mean you can’t negotiate.
Speaking of which …
CONTRACT
Do you want to lock into services that are long-term but at a more reasonable rate? Or do you want a flexible arrangement that might cost more per hour and force you to use your office as collateral? (Note: We don’t do this. Actually no one does. But be sure to read the fine print!)
PING PONG
There’s only one digital marketing agency that has this. Please don’t Google that.
In short, there are many factors to consider when looking for a dedicated marketing firm. BUT, since you’re already on our website, you might as well go with us. See that tab up top that says “SERVICES.” Click on that. Then give us a call!
Plus: You don’t even have to bring your own paddle.
