As a small business owner, you began your venture because you're passionate about something other than marketing. Have you reached a point in which you're considering outsourcing your social media marketing efforts? Business owners often feel ready to make this move when they finally have the budget and perceive the service as cost effective, social media feels like a chore, the task demands too much attention, or they feel lacking in skill. When allocating resources becomes feasible and you’d rather focus on your passion, it’s time to take back your time and let the experts step in.
Building a business without a marketing plan or budget is a recipe for failure. Although social media offers accessible marketing channels, it's essential to remember that effective advertising requires professionalism and strategy, which come at a cost.
Do You Value Quality?
You should only consider outsourcing social media when you understand the value of having it done well. Relying on a friend or family member with limited expertise or a young person who is Instagram-savvy may not yield the results you hope for. If you're not ready to invest in high-quality marketing services, it's better to hold off until you can afford it. Why settle for a service that delivers less professional results than what you offer your own customers?
Asking the Right Questions
Before starting your search for an agency, take the time to answer these crucial questions:
Why do you feel ready to outsource?
What are your specific needs?
How involved do you want to be in the process?
Understanding your motivations, requirements, and desired level of engagement will guide you towards finding the right agency that aligns with your needs and style.
Budget Considerations
Your marketing budget should not be an afterthought. Allocate between 5% to 10% of your revenue to marketing efforts. Once you've established a budget, it's time to begin your search. Here are some things to consider along the way:
Do They Practice What They Preach?
Before contacting any agency, do some research. Evaluate their own digital presence. If they cannot effectively manage their own social media accounts, it should raise concerns about their ability to manage yours. Look out for red flags such as missing links, sporadic posting, outdated information, blurry images, overuse of stock imagery, limited presence on multiple platforms, and a lack of registered business information. Make sure to check if their email corresponds to their website domain.
Data Doesn't Lie
Schedule consultations with potential agencies. Ask them about their education, background, experience, client portfolio, examples of their work, and the results they deliver. Notice how they articulate their strategies. A reputable agency will push back responsibly, providing insights and considerations rather than simply telling you what you want to hear.
You Get What You Pay For
Cutting corners or hiring inexperienced professionals can harm your business in the long run. If your budget is limited, consider executing your marketing strategy in stages rather than compromising on quality. Building a successful business takes time, and investing in your brand's foundation and marketing efforts will pay off in the long term.
With the right agency by your side, you can confidently build your business and watch it thrive. Could Concrete & Palm be that team for you? We certainly hope so! Set up a call with us to learn more.