You’re a savvy business owner. You know your product or service inside and out, and you’re passionate about what you do. But when it comes to marketing, you’ll be the first to admit that you need some help. So, you start looking for a marketing agency that can take your business to the next level. But with so many options out there, how can you tell which ones are good and which ones are bad? Here are five warning signs that you should look out for when vetting potential marketing agencies.
1. They're All Talk and No Action
A good marketing agency will walk the walk, not just talk the talk. If an agency talks a big game but doesn’t have much in the way of results to show for it, that’s a red flag. A good marketing agency will use plain language to explain their strategies and tactics. If an agency can’t do that, move on. Be sure to ask for case studies or other examples of their work so that you can get a better sense of what they’re actually capable of.
2. They Don't Understand Your Business or Industry
It’s important to partner with an agency that understands your business and industry inside and out. Otherwise, how can they be expected to effectively market your products or services? Make sure that any agency you’re considering has experience working with businesses in your industry before making any commitment.
3. They Use a Lot of Jargon
Do they use terms like “synergy,” “leverage,” or “strategic evolution” without explanation? Do they seem more interested in impressing you with their vocabulary than they are in communicating clearly? If so, run away fast! A good marketing agency will use language that everyone can understand—no jargon necessary.
4. They're Making Promises They Can't Keep
If an agency is promising results that seem too good to be true, they probably are. Be wary of any agency that’s making grandiose claims without being able to back them up with data or concrete examples. The best agencies will be honest about what they can and cannot do for your business.
5. Their Team Is Toxic
Last but not least, paying attention to the vibes you get from an agency’s team is crucial. After all, these are the people who will be working on your account day in and day out. If they’re rude, dismissive, or just generally unpleasant to interact with, that’s not a good sign. Take some time to get to know the team members who would be working on your account before making any final decisions—you’ll be glad you did!
When hiring a marketing agency, beware of any red flags that may indicate they’re not worth your time or money. These include overusing buzzwords, having outdated strategies, or promising guaranteed results. A good marketing agency will use plain language to explain their modern strategies and tactics. They should also be able to show you examples of their work. Most importantly, don’t forget to trust your gut! If something feels off about an agency, chances are it probably is. Do your research and take your time when selecting an agency—it’ll be worth it in the long run!