7If you are considering hiring an advertising agency, there are a number of traits to factor in before making your choice. Not all ad agencies are created equally. In order to help you expand your business, the agency that you choose must be well-equipped to help you optimize your reach. While you are scouting for the best advertising agency, look for the following traits:
- Location
Location can actually be a major determinant in how an advertising agency runs. In large cities like New York, advertising agencies usually deal with large-scale businesses and focus on creative, innovative work. In smaller cities, advertising agencies usually deal with smaller businesses that cater to a niche customer base.
Both types have strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to consider location while you search. This review by StrawberryFrog showcases some of the best agencies in New York City.Â
- Empathy
It’s common knowledge that the agency you work with should understand your business and what you do. More so, they should be able to step into your shoes and see things from your perspective.
You should only work with an agency with which you can establish strong lines of communication. This way, you can guarantee that your needs are heard and met. Even though your business and your chosen agency are two separate businesses, you should be able to operate as one when it is called for.
- Willingness
Instead of tailoring their approach to every client, some advertising agencies generalize their procedures. This is so they can avoid doing the necessary work and get campaigns done quickly. This approach is quite ineffective.
Businesses are dynamic, multi-faceted entities. Make sure the agency you choose is willing to take a unique approach that uses the many nuances of your business. Their creative services should extend past the development stage of whatever campaign they are creating and into the strategic planning stage.
- Understands Your Target Market
Having an established target market is fundamental to any business’s success. It is imperative that your advertising agency understands this market as well.
Your agency should be able to create a comprehensive profile of your target audience so you can better reach them. This will help them decide the right advertising medium for a new campaign.
- Cost-Effectiveness
Turning a profit is vital to keeping your business afloat. Your advertising agency must be able to create campaigns that have high Return-on-Investment.
While impressions and clicks can help you gain exposure for your business, they aren’t that valuable. You want an advertising agency that can break their budget down in terms of potential sales.
They should not be afraid to discuss past success and use real numbers to drive their point across. If they use vague terminology, that may be a red flag.
- Portfolio
Every agency should have a portfolio of their best work to showcase to future clients. When you meet with an advertising agency, don’t hesitate to ask about their past successes. Explore their past work and see how it aligns with your business’s identity and desired aesthetic.
- Testimonials
Past clients of the advertising agency you choose should have positive things to say about their collaboration. While these testimonials aren’t an end all be all, they should help you navigate your search.
These testimonials can help you discover if their work gets done on time, if they stick to their budget, and if the work meets expectations. Don’t be afraid to reach out to their past clients for more information if you think it will help you decide.
By keeping these 7 tips in mind, you should be able to find an advertising agency that not only promotes your products or services but generates real results. Don’t be hesitant to ask how agencies can prove they meet these demands—remember, they are working for you!
