7 Tips for Finding the Best Digital Agencies in Your Area
By now, most business owners are aware they need a strong digital presence to succeed. But out of the 30 million businesses in America, only 64% have working websites.
The bottom line for business owners is that customers are online, so your business needs to be, too. The most effective way to boost your business is by working with a digital agency.
How do business owners find the best digital agencies to work with? Here are seven tips to help you find the right agency for your business.
1. Know What You’re Looking For
Before searching for the best digital agencies, you should know what you’re looking for. By assessing your digital needs and budget, you can pick an agency that is the right fit for your company.
For starters, are you looking to work with an agency to complete one major project? Or do you want to begin a long-term relationship with a digital company?
Make a list of what you want in a partner agency. Consider the following aspects:
- Agency size and location
- Industry experience
- Communication
- Reporting metrics
- Pricing structures
Consider non-compete agreements when searching for a digital agency. If the business works with your competition, they may have agreed to a non-compete, which means the agency can’t work for you.
Creating a marketing agency checklist is the simplest way to ensure you find a company that is the perfect match.
2. Conduct a Local Search
Use Google (or your preferred online search engine) to identify local digital agencies. Type “best digital agencies near me” or “best digital agencies in Portland” to generate a list of nearby options. Once you have a few agency names, peruse their websites to check if the businesses have what you’re looking for.
Another benefit of finding an agency through a local online search is it allows you to find a digital marketing company that practices what it preaches.
Conducting an online search will reveal digital agencies with proper SEO. SEO is an essential aspect of digital marketing. It uses a variety of tactics to raise a company’s Google listing. SEO is crucial because 97% of people learn about a local company online compared to anywhere else.
Most digital agencies sell SEO services, but you want to pick a company that doesn’t just talk the talk. A digital agency should have optimal SEO. After all, you wouldn’t want to hire a landscaper with a run-down lawn, would you?
3. Ask Other Business Owners
Once you’re aware of the best digital agencies in your area, consult with your network. Ask local business owners if they work with digital companies and how their experiences have been. Inquire about credentials, results, and if they’re happy with the work, the agency has produced.
4. Scope Online Reviews
You can read about how amazing and efficient a company is on their website, but online reviews reveal how the company operates from the customer’s perspective. After all, 90% of consumers read online reviews before visiting a business, so you should, too.
Head to your potential agency’s website. Check for customer reviews and testimonials. While searching the site, take note of its navigation and design. You want to work with a digital agency that knows how to produce an effective and user-friendly website.
You can also check Google, Yelp, and other online sources for unbiased reviews from previous customers. If the business is new, and there are limited online reviews to peruse, you can contact the company for business referrals.
5. Ask the Right Questions
Before you sign a contract, conduct a consultation with your potential marketing agency. A face-to-face meeting allows you to learn more about the agency, its experience, and ask relevant questions to determine if they are the right fit.
First, cover previous experience with the agency. Does the company work with similar businesses as yours? Does the agency have experience working with clients in your industry? If so, how successful have they been?
Next, learn more about the team. Ask about the company’s size and who will be in charge of your account. Inquire if the agency outsources to subcontractors and freelancers. The right agency will give you a strong point-of-contact and will be transparent about their processes.
Other essential questions to ask your potential digital agency include:
- What digital marketing credentials does your agency have?
- How do you compile marketing reports?
- What is your primary method of communication with clients (phone, face-to-face, email, video conference, etc.)?
- How does your pricing structure work? What are the terms of a typical contract?
- What is your company culture like?
- What tools do you use to accomplish digital goals?
- How does your company stay on top of industry trends and changes?
Don’t forget to let your agency know what’s important to you in a business relationship. If you expect weekly calls or want an agency that sends everything to you before it’s published, let the company know. Transparency goes both ways in business relationships.
6. Review Case Studies and Portfolio Work
A reputable digital agency can provide you with a portfolio of their previous work. The portfolio may contain published websites, blogs, promotional videos, and social media profiles.
You may also inquire about real-world examples of your solution in action. A case study shows you what the agency is capable of while providing proof of the product’s success. You should view at least one, if not more, case study before agreeing to work with an agency.
7. Go With Your Gut
There are multiple aspects to take into consideration when choosing the best digital agency for your business. However, make sure you go with your gut.
You know what’s important to you and your business. Sometimes an agency may seem like the right fit on paper, but their company culture or means of communication don’t align with yours. Your agency should become a helpful partner that guides your business to success. Choose one that feels like the right fit.
The Best Digital Agencies Are Closer Than You Think
By following these steps, you’re guaranteed to find the right agency for your business. If you’re searching for the best digital agencies in Chicago or Portland, look no further.
We specialize in top-of-the-line digital solutions guaranteed to enhance your business.
Contact us now to set up a consultation.
