Five Things to Ponder Before Hiring a Marketing Company

By Dora Ann Millikan


Having trouble with new sales? Are you thinking of hiring a marketing company to lend a hand? You aren't alone. Several companies across the planet have already adopted this practice and are getting some pretty tremendous results. How do you decide the right one? Be sure to look for the following key areas: speed to market, cost effectiveness and any up-front fees, size and scope, and the company's track record.

When I think about the term, 'marketing,' there are many versions. However, all that I'm concerned with is bottom-line sales. Will my marketing efforts bring in additional sales? That's all I care about. I'm not interested in spreading awareness. I'm not interested in a potential customer 'thinking about it.' I'm interested in an action that delivers quantifiable results.

The first thing that you should look at is the size and scope of the marketing company's reach. Can the marketing company reach all of your potential customers? Are there any prospective sales that the company will miss out on? If you are a local company only offering services to your surrounding community? If so, a local company with a strong presence might be best. However, if you are a national company you should look for a marketing company that can reach all of your customers.

Secondly, how fast can you expect to see results? If a marketing company exaggerates claims stating that you can see results that day, be warned. I don't think there is a marketing company in the world that can do that. I may be wrong, but it's highly unlikely. If you need customers NOW, you should expect results within a couple of weeks. Look for the results to start off slow as the market strategy is just rolling out.

Another factor when considering a marketing company is the cost. Don't just look at the short term cost. Look at the long-term gain vs short term cost. Many companies will charge you a fee up-front. Some smaller less-known companies may not. Don't get scare off by this as it may be worth it. Make sure to inquire about the use of the up-front fees in your potential marketing campaign. The bottom line is profit. So, be sure that the long-term gains outweigh the short and long-term costs.

Lastly, look for a proven track record from the marketing company. It's not so important how long a marketing company has been in business, but what is important is their results. Has the company delivered on-time and under or at-budget? Are there any complaints or poor reviews from their clients? Granted, a ton of marketing companies have bad reviews from former employees, but who hasn't? Be sure to look for the things that matter i.e. a track-record with a company's clients.

There are many things to consider when deciding on a marketing company. Just remember that the bottom line is an increase in sales. Take both the short term and long term benefit into account when considering costs and don't worry about spreading awareness. Just hire the company that can produce quantifiable results and watch your business grow!




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