At first glance, digital marketing appears to be one big paradox. A digital marketing agency is often based on intangibles, yet as marketers, we contend that we can deliver very tangible results for our clients. How can we make this assertion? When the work we do exists almost solely in the digital space, how can we demonstrate its value?

Relationships Drive Results

As with any business venture, trust is what lies at the heart of digital marketing. Relationships have value; and when all’s said and done, relationships are what fuel our industry. What sets a legitimate and reliable digital marketing agency apart from those that simply want to collect a paycheck are the partnerships we seek with our clients.

Many business owners think that they don’t have the time, energy, or capital to devote to a long-term partnership. As a result, they often come to us seeking a “quick fix” for their marketing problems. Unfortunately, “quick fixes” almost never yield sustainable results. Could the work be done really quickly? Maybe. But if it were, would it be done well, and would the results help you reach your business goals? Probably not. The most successful projects that effective marketers tackle are ones that span enough time for them to become truly invested.

Understanding Who You Want to Target

When a digital marketing agency is able to dig deep and learn exactly who you are, what you do, and the types of relationships you seek, it allows us to not only understand your business but your audience. Understanding your audience is one of the most beneficial things you can do to grow your bottom line. When we learn what your audience cares about, we can tailor content to pique their very specific interests and, in turn, garner very qualified leads for your business.

Have a Partner that Grows With You

A long-term partnership with a digital marketing agency ensures that as your business grows over time, you will always have someone on your side who is willing to adapt and grow with you. While you dedicate your time and energy to the day-to-day responsibilities of your business, allow your trusted agency to dedicate its time to recommending the latest marketing practices.
A marketer should always be thinking one step ahead. Things won’t always go as planned, and that’s okay. When you build a long-term relationship with an agency that understands your business, it’s much easier (and more cost-effective) to adjust your marketing strategy along the way. Otherwise, you’ll be starting from scratch every time.

Acquiring Positive Results Takes Time

If a digital marketing agency advises against a “quick fix” or a short-term project, they’re probably being realistic about your long-term investment. A short, inexpensive project may initially sound appealing. But marketers should offer their best counsel on how to get the most value for your money. No agency can offer a viable solution or promise real, measurable results without first evaluating you as a whole — your strengths, weaknesses, goals, existing website, and overall marketing strategy.

If you’re ever tempted (or persuaded) to perform a “quick fix” to your website, consider this: you’ll likely have to perform that quick fix repeatedly to ever notice results. It is much more valuable to invest in a high-quality, well-thought-out digital marketing strategy and the relationship that comes with it.

An effective digital marketing strategy takes time, commitment, and trust. You must trust your agency to have your best interests in mind. When you allow your agency to dig deep and tackle the tough stuff, and ultimately come to trust them, your business can truly flourish.