As a business owner in Coeur d’Alene or beyond, you know that marketing is essential to the success of your business. However, with so many marketing companies out there, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your business. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together a list of questions to ask when choosing a marketing company.
1. What experience do you have in my industry?
It’s important to choose a marketing company that has experience in your industry. Ask if they have worked with businesses similar to yours and what kind of results they have achieved. Having previous experience will allow them to have an understanding of your ideal customers demographic and what specific steps need to be taken to get you a substantial return on investment.
2. What services do you offer?
Different marketing companies offer different services, not all companies are one stop shops that offer every service. Some businesses like to diversify their service providers by task while some want a company that can meet all of their needs. Make sure the company you choose offers the services that you need. For example, if you want to focus on social media marketing, make sure the company offers that service.
3. What is your approach to marketing?
Every marketing company has a unique approach to marketing. Make sure the company’s approach aligns with your business goals and values. Making sure that the marketing company fits your style and outlook as well as ambition will save you trouble down the road. Ask how they plan to reach your target audience and what kind of messaging they will use.
4. How do you measure success?
It’s important to have a clear understanding of how the marketing company will measure success. Ask what metrics they use to measure success and how often they will provide reports. It's important to outline goals and expectations as the conversation moves forward, having everyone on the same page ensures success and a clear path toward it.
5. What is your pricing model?
Various marketing companies use different pricing models. Some charge by the hour, while others charge a flat fee for a project. Make sure you understand the pricing model and how it will fit into your budget. Having clarity on how and when you will be charged will lead to a strong ongoing business relationship with limited surprises.
6. Do you offer exclusivity for ongoing clients?
If you are looking to grow with a marketing company it's important to know if they offer exclusivity for ongoing services. If a company is offering ad placement or ongoing SEO services you want them to not be servicing your competitors as well. Working with multiple businesses in the same area and industry causes a conflict of interest. For certain services, you don't want your marketing company competing against themselves while working to grow your business.
7. Can you provide references?
Ask for references from current and past clients. Reach out to these references and ask about their experience with the company. This will give you an idea of what to expect if you decide to work with them.
Choosing the right marketing company is essential to the success of your business. By asking these questions, you can ensure that you choose a company that understands your business and can help you achieve your goals. If you are currently searching for a marketing company to meet your business needs we'd be glad to meet with you. TBD Marketing is a full-service marketing agency. We would love to learn more about your business and see how we can help.