If you find yourself searching for a new digital marketing agency to build a website or help you promote your business online, you won’t have to look very far. There are dozens just in my home city of Philadelphia. Most major urban areas have many to choose from.
In my experience, though, business owners don’t want to work with any creative team – they want the perfect digital marketing agency to help them grow.
Finding that right fit can be a little bit tougher, but it’s certainly not impossible. If you want to find the ideal creative partner for your website and ongoing campaigns, here are five rules I would advise you to keep in mind.
#1 Know What You’re Looking For
You probably aren’t searching for a digital marketing agency so you can write another check or schedule more meetings. You have some kind of business goal in mind. Before you start getting together with candidates, see if you can narrow down on what exactly you want to see happen. That will make it easier to filter through your options later.
#2 Dive Into Web Design Portfolios
The easiest way to find out what kind of talent and philosophy you’ll encounter within a digital marketing agency is by studying their web design portfolios and case studies. Only meet with teams who have an artistic sense and style that’s close to your own. Otherwise, you could pay a lot for work that doesn’t really match your preferences or expectations.
#3 Pay Attention to Digital Marketing Agency Results
As important as web design portfolios are, they are only part of the picture. A good digital marketing agency will have plenty of success stories to show off. These might include companies that now rank highly on Google, have increased their revenue through PPC ads, or maintain a strong social media presence. Either way, check out the results from past clients before making a final call.
#4 Understand the Terms You’re Agreeing to
Every creative company has their own set of terms and conditions that come with proposals or web design contracts. It’s important to look at these closely, because you want to know what you’re paying for, and what kind of ongoing service or advice you can expect. Also, you’ll want to have a sense of what your commitment is like if things don’t work out as planned.
#5 Always Trust Your Gut Instincts
Unfortunately, not every digital marketing agency is ethical, competent, or trustworthy. If you have a vague feeling that the team you’re considering can’t get the job done, or doesn’t have your best interest in mind, take your business elsewhere. You’ll never regret following your gut instincts, especially when the future of your business is on the line.
As I’ve mentioned, there are lots of companies that will be happy to take money from you and give you a website or search engine optimization plan in return. But, when you find that perfect digital marketing agency for your business and goals, you set yourself up to bring in new customers and watch your bottom line grow for years to come. Keep that in mind and choose wisely.
Looking for a Philadelphia digital marketing agency that’s trusted by small businesses and big brands alike? Reach out to Biondo Creative today to arrange a free consultation!