In the dynamic world of digital marketing, the relationship between a Marketing Manager and their digital marketing agency can be a game-changer. Understanding how to get the most out of your digital marketing agency is crucial.
This article was written for all Marketing Managers working with Agencies. Whether they are working on SEO or Social Media, PPC, no matter what, this should help. These tips come from 20 years of working with Marketing Managers as their Digital Marketing account/project manager.
Treat your agency as your internal team.
Your digital marketing agency is not just a service provider; they are your strategic partners. Treat them as an extension of your internal team. Share your company’s vision, goals, and challenges with them. This will help them understand your business better and devise strategies that align with your business objectives. They want to help you achieve success so that they remain partners for the long term.
Clear and consistent communication.
Clear and regular communication is the backbone of any successful partnership. Ensure that you clearly communicate your expectations. Provide them with constructive feedback and appreciate their work as you would an in-house colleague. A happy agency is a productive agency.
To help, your agency should have a project management tool to help with communication and transaprancy.
Set clear goals.
Define what success looks like for you. Whether it’s increasing website traffic, improving conversion rates, or boosting social media engagement, ensure your goals are clear, measurable, and shared with your agency. Share your business goals as well as your digital marketing goals – everything should be aligned and will avoid disappointment further up the chain.
An agency might be happy they have increased traffic, but if the MD doesn’t see the proper SQLs generated, there will be issues.
Trust their expertise.
Your digital marketing agency has the expertise and experience in the field. Trust their insights and recommendations. While it’s essential to be involved, avoid micromanaging. Give them the creative freedom to do what they do best.
Feel free to ask for explanations, but only question them when it’s necessary. Pick your fights; otherwise, the relationship will become painful.
Ask your agency anything, not just for reports.
Remember, your agency is there to help you. Don’t hesitate to ask them anything, whether about the latest digital marketing trends, best practices, or even advice on a particular campaign. Feel free to ask. The more you communicate, the more you can assist one another.
However, static reports are not very helpful on their own alone. They require discussion and the ability to manipulate the data to understand the big picture.
Don’t be afraid to express disappointment.
Honesty and transparency are essential in any relationship, and it’s no different with your agency. If you’re disappointed with any aspect of their work, let them know. Constructive criticism can help them better understand your expectations and improve their service.
Think of the relationship as any other; leaving people in the dark will not develop the relationship positively.
Regular Meetings are Essential.
Don’t shy away from asking for regular meetings. Good agencies will appreciate discussing ideas, progress, and strategies with you. Regular meetings not only ensure everyone is on the same page but also foster a stronger, more collaborative relationship.
Be nice; they are on your side.
Always remember, a good agency is on your side. They are not there to score points against you, and neither should you. The law of reciprocation is real and just as much here. The more enthusiasm and positive communication you have, the more you get back.
Summary
Collaborate and communicate with your agency as though they are your internal team. They are on your side and will do anything to help you achieve your goals.
By incorporating these agency insights, you can ensure a fruitful and effective relationship with your digital marketing agency. Remember, it’s all about collaboration, communication, and mutual respect. Happy marketing!
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