How to choose an agency ?
Choosing THE right communications agency is a key step in the development of any business. But with so many different communications agencies available, how do you choose the one that's right for you? Whether you need a strategic vision or precise technical expertise, it's essential to find a partner who understands and meets your needs.
Why do you need an agency?
The first step in choosing an agency is to understand why you need one. Are you looking for strategic advice to guide your business? Or are you looking for specific expertise: SEO, design, web, media buying, PR, etc.? Sometimes you need a mix of everything. Take the time to clarify your expectations and prioritize your needs so that you can target the agencies best suited to your requirements.
An agency or freelancers?
Once you've clarified your expectations, it's time to choose between an agency and freelancers. An agency brings an overall vision, covering various areas of communication and marketing. It can therefore manage all aspects of your project. Freelancers, each an expert in their own field, need to coordinate their efforts. For example, when creating a website, you may have to orchestrate the work of the graphic designer, the developer, the content writer, the translator, the web host and the SEO expert.
there are several types of agency.
If you choose an agency, there are several categories. There are specialist agencies that focus on a specific area, such as design, digital, events or influencer marketing. And there are generalist agencies, such as oohhh, which offer a global approach and are therefore able to guarantee consistency in all aspects of communication. Find out more about the scope of each agency to make an informed choice.
An agency that looks like you ... but not too much.
As well as technical and strategic skills, it's essential that you feel a cultural proximity to the agency. Such an agency will better understand your needs and be able to come up with ideas that resonate with the essence of your brand. This connection will facilitate exchanges and enrich the collaboration. But be careful to choose an agency that doesn't look too much like you, that brings you a fresh vision and that is capable of challenging some of your certainties.
A committed agency
The last but not least criteria is the involvement of the agency. Spend some time meeting the directors, and make sure they are committed. You should also check if the team that presents you with the recommendations will actually be the one that follows up your project. This guarantee of long-term commitment is essential to ensure consistency and high quality of service.
Choosing an agency is a strategic decision that requires careful thought about your needs and expectations. Ensuring a good chemistry between your teams, a perfect understanding of your vision and the total involvement of the agency are the keys to a fruitful collaboration.
The artwork for this article was created with Midjourney.