When it comes to online advertising, businesses often find themselves navigating the complex terrain of agency relationships and in-house teams. How can businesses determine if they’re truly maximizing their advertising potential or if there are underlying issues that warrant considering a switch? This is a question that we at StubGroup, a leading digital marketing agency, have considered at length. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at common concerns and red flags that clients may encounter in their agency relationships.
Communication is Key
Communication is the cornerstone of a fruitful agency-client partnership. Clients often express uncertainty about their campaign performance and struggle to decipher the significance of the metrics presented to them. Proactive communication ensures that clients are not left in the dark regarding the intricacies of their campaigns. By bridging the gap between technical jargon and layman’s terms, at StubGroup we empower clients to make informed decisions about their marketing strategies.
Tailoring Strategies for Greater Success
At StubGroup, we understand the importance of tailoring strategies to align with clients’ goals and aspirations. While some agencies may simply adopt clients’ stated goals without further analysis, we take a more comprehensive approach. For instance, if a client expresses a desire for a 10x return on ad spend (ROAS) based on advice from others, we delve deeper into the numbers and reality of their business. Rather than simply aiming for the stated ROAS, we engage in a dialogue with the client to understand their business metrics and profitability thresholds.
Some agencies might readily commit to achieving the desired 10x ROAS, but what sets the exceptional agencies apart is the ability to have an open conversation. We believe in discussing the client’s numbers and the broader reality of their business. In some cases, aiming for a lower ROAS, such as 5x, might actually lead to higher overall profits. By driving more traffic and generating additional orders, even though each transaction may be less profitable individually, the client can ultimately achieve greater profit dollars.
This approach shows the importance of a two-way conversation, rather than simply agreeing to the client’s initial goals. At StubGroup, we prioritize understanding our client’s business landscape and collaborating to develop strategies that maximize profitability in the long run.
When considering the help of an advertising agency, seriously consider how they strategize in order to make an informed decision that’s best for your business.
Misunderstanding the Change History
Understanding the change history within Google Ads is crucial for evaluating an agency’s engagement with your account. It provides insight into the frequency and nature of modifications made over time. However, interpreting this data requires careful consideration and discernment.
Clients often assume that a lack of visible changes in the account “Change History” implies inactivity on the agency’s part. This can be misleading. While frequent adjustments may indicate engagement, significant decisions or strategic shifts might not manifest as immediate changes in the account as many aspects of Google Ads are now automated.
For instance, a decision to adjust target return on ad spend (ROAS) settings or refine campaign objectives may not result in visible alterations for some time. This strategic approach aims to avoid disrupting campaign performance and allows for observation of how adjustments impact results over time.
Furthermore, factors external to the ad account, such as Google Merchant Center updates for e-commerce clients, can significantly influence campaign performance without appearing in the change history. Tasks like optimizing product data, resolving feed issues, or addressing approvals within the Merchant Center are critical but often go unnoticed in the change log.
Therefore, a sparse change history does not necessarily indicate neglect. Instead, it underscores the importance of transparent communication between the agency and the client. If performance is subpar and coupled with a lack of communication or explanation from the agency, it may signal a cause for concern. Effective agencies will not only make strategic decisions but also communicate clearly with clients, providing insights into their actions and offering suggestions for improvement based on data analysis.
Partnering for Success
In summary, evaluating whether or not an advertising agency is right for you depends a lot on their level of communication, transparency, and their ability to strategize with your best interest at the forefront.
StubGroup’s approach to agency-client relationships is rooted in all three of these necessities: collaboration, transparency, and results-driven strategies. By fostering open communication, aligning goals, and proactively addressing red flags, we empower clients to unlock the full potential of their digital marketing endeavors.
Seeking Expert Assistance?
Our commitment to honesty and integrity ensures that clients receive actionable insights tailored to their specific needs. So, whether you’re seeking to optimize your existing campaigns or embark on a new digital marketing journey, StubGroup stands ready to be your trusted partner in success.
To learn more or initiate a conversation, get in touch with us now. We look forward to the opportunity of partnering with you!
Until next time, here’s to dominating Google Ads and reaping the rewards of a robust digital presence!