Think it might be time to outsource some of your marketing? Whether you choose to work with Byers or another creative firm, here are four tips that will help you get the most out of your partnership.
- Talk – and listen
Ideally, your partnership with a marketing firm will develop into a true, long-term relationship that benefits both parties. And just as in any good relationship, communication is key. You know your business best, so tell your marketing firm about what you do, who your customers are, what you’ve done in the past and how marketing fits into your business plan.
At the same time, be prepared to listen to ideas and consider new marketing possibilities. You don’t have to accept every idea, but recognize that your business won’t grow by doing the same things you’ve always done before.
And if your marketing firm isn’t communicating with you or responding when you ask tough questions, it may be time for a breakup!
- Know and communicate your goals
What are the goals of your marketing project, website, email campaign or annual report? What do you hope to achieve? Do you want more people to join your email list? Do you hope to make a certain amount of profits from a sale? Do you want to get volunteers or reassure your board members?
If you’re not clear about what your goals are – or if you don’t communicate those goals – your marketing team won’t be able to help you reach them. Need help setting your goals? Let your team know so that together, you can explore options, determine a path and work toward your goals.
- Be honest about your deadlines and budget
How quickly do you want to turn your project around? Keep in mind that for some projects there may be extra time needed for design, printing, approvals, distribution and/or mailing, and these can all affect your deadline.
Also, if there are multiple people in your office who will be working with the firm, make sure everyone understands how to reach decision-makers, who should be included in reviews and who has the final say in approvals.
And in terms of your budget, how much do you want to spend on your project, plan or campaign? Is your budget flexible or very strict? Be up front with your marketing firm from the beginning so they can keep all costs in mind for creative time, materials, delivery, execution, etc.
- Be up front about your expectations
Do you want to see a report from your marketing firm every week? Every month? Do you want to meet face-to-face on a regular basis or would you prefer a phone call? What about the invoicing process?
If you set clear guidelines on what you expect in the beginning, both parties are much more likely to be satisfied and achieve better results.
Think Byers might be the right marketing firm for your needs? Contact us to find out more about what we can do for you!
