As a business coach, I take it very seriously when I am asked to recommend an online marketing company. Unfortunately, there are some companies who don’t provide the most exceptional service and results, but FORTUNATELY there are some who do!
In my experience, you need to find out the following information before hiring an online marketing expert:
How long has the company been around? Do they have years worth of proven results and testimonials?
What is their growth plan? Online marketing is in high demand so anyone can set up shop and get customers, but can they GROW SUSTAINABLY, and PROVIDE AMAZING SERVICE, even as they grow? Ensure they have a solid business plan, to ensure they don’t drop the ball with current clients as they grow.
What are their company values, and do they align with yours? If values, ethics and missions are not at least similar, you may experience serious disagreements on how things should be done, what methods should be used, and what type of content should be produced.
What results do they expect to produce for you, and how? Do they believe your goals are possible?
What is their plan to achieve your goals? Is it feasible and in line with your values?
What are the specifics and schedule for reporting? How often, and which numbers, will you KNOW what results you are getting, in comparison to the goals you set together?
If a marketing expert shies away from these conversations, I encourage you to keep looking. In my experience, business owners are throwing away millions of dollars a year on online marketing, because they’re not hiring the right online marketing experts. Two of my favourite online marketing experts are London Road Media and Grizzly Media.
These two companies have delivered exceptionally well for me and my clients. The real differences I noticed with them were:
They kept their word, they did what they said they would do
They respond quickly and help to fix any challenges as soon as possible
They are truly experts, they have proven results
They challenge me to think bigger, better, bolder
Their values align with mine – they truly care about provide something awesome for their clients.
Most importantly, they have healthy, solid companies that are growing strategically and sustainable.
Guest post by Kelli-Rae Tamaki at TMH Business Coaching & Consulting