12 Questions to Ask Before You Hire a Marketing Agency
The exact questions that separate an agency that will grow your business from one that will drain your bank account.
Before you sign anything, ask these questions. The answers — and how comfortable they are answering — tell you everything.
What exactly will you do in the first 30 days?
A real agency has a clear answer. If they can't tell you what work happens first, they don't have a plan.
Do I own my website and domain?
The answer must be yes. If your site lives on their proprietary platform, you're a hostage, not a client.
How will you report results, and how often?
Look for leads and calls, not impressions. Monthly, plain-language reporting is the standard.
Is there a long-term contract?
Month-to-month means they're betting on results. A long lock-in means they're betting on your inertia.
Have you worked with my trade before?
Trades market differently. Experience with your specific type of work matters more than a big client list.
How do you track which leads came from your work?
If they can't separate their leads from your referrals and repeat customers, they can't prove they're earning their fee.
What happens to my website if I leave?
You should be able to take it with you. Get that in writing.
Who actually does the work?
Some agencies sell you on a senior rep, then hand your account to a junior or offshore team. Know who's on it.
How do you handle my Google Business Profile?
For a local contractor, the map listing is gold. They should have a clear strategy for it.
Can you explain your pricing in one sentence?
If they can, it's honest. If it takes five minutes and three caveats, be careful.
What results have you gotten for similar businesses?
Ask for specifics. Be wary of anyone who only speaks in vague success stories.
What do you need from me to succeed?
Good marketing is a partnership. An agency that asks nothing of you isn't planning to do much.
Common questions
Who is this guide for?
Does Ads By Crest actually do this work?
Will you give me an honest opinion on my current setup?
How much does working with you cost?
Do you lock me into a contract?
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