When it comes to hiring a creative agency, if the deal sounds too good to be true, it likely is. Opting for a cheap agency can lead to unpleasant experiences and disappointing results. Many of our clients have shared their stories of working with "budget" marketing agencies that fail to deliver anything significant except an invoice. However, it is possible to avoid such a fate by being aware of the red flags and making informed decisions for your business.
Should you make the mistake of engaging a low-cost marketing agency without conducting proper research, it is highly likely that your business will be subjected to unethical practices. It is imperative that you exercise caution and take the time to choose an agency that is reputable and trustworthy.
TRANSPARENCY
Certain marketing agencies may not provide full disclosure about their use of your marketing budget and may only offer generalized reports. However, a reputable marketing agency will collaborate with you to help you attain impact instead of dictating the process.
It is not uncommon for individuals to hold your company's social media pages and website hostage, which can result in significant costs in order to regain ownership. If you find yourself in a situation where you are not granted access to your own business, it is recommended to swiftly distance yourself.
NO COMMUNICATION
Are you facing a situation where your marketing agency is keeping their results confidential? Are you finding it difficult to get access to your own data and analytics? It is imperative for your marketing agency to be transparent and available to address all your queries, and provide you with a clear understanding of the strategies they are employing and the outcomes they are achieving.
It is important to keep in mind that investing in a reputable marketing agency may come with a higher price tag. However, the benefits and outcomes they provide should ultimately outweigh the expenses incurred. Remember, quality work requires a corresponding investment.
Before hiring a marketing agency, it is important to be vigilant and watch out for certain warning signs. These indicators should not be overlooked as they may lead to unfavorable outcomes:
DECEPTIVE TACTICS
Unethical methods like paid links, stuffing keywords, and substandard filler content are all examples of deceptive "black hat" strategies that aim to deceive the system and enhance search engine results. Fortunately, search engines like Google have become aware of these methods and will blacklist websites that use them. Regrettably, this implies that your website may also be penalized for these tactics, which is not good for your business.
A competent marketing agency will be straightforward with you: a successful inbound strategy requires time and effort to create a strong foundation for long-term outcomes. They will depend on methods such as blogging, targeted ads, and other research-based tactics to help your website gain SEO rankings.
ONE SIZE FITS ALL
If a marketing agency claims to have an all-encompassing solution for digital marketing, it's best to search for another one. It's a fact that there is no secret to effective marketing as every company has its own individual requirements for success. Instead, opt for a marketing team that can create a customized strategy based on your needs.
OVER EXAGGERATED
Numerous agencies have the ability to impress with flashy presentations and exaggerated commitments. An effective salesperson can lure you into signing a contract without providing you with a clear understanding of the situation. However, it is crucial to analyze the information closely and assess the authenticity of their claims. It is important to ensure that they are presenting you with concrete data and practical strategy examples instead of confusing you with ambiguous language and theoretical concepts.
If you end up with the wrong agency, the situation can quickly turn into a messy and troublesome relationship. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct thorough research beforehand to prevent any potential problems. It is advisable to schedule meetings with potential agencies and ask numerous questions to gain clarity. Although opting for an inexpensive marketing agency may seem attractive, the cost of reversing the damage could be much higher. However, a reputable agency will strive to make your investment worthwhile by delivering desirable outcomes.
TBC is committed to your success and believes in building strong partnerships with clients. Our team utilizes data-driven strategies to help you generate leads and increase your online visibility. Ready for substantial growth? Get in touch for a FREE session.