When we first launched Outlier Creative, it was tempting to try to make ourselves sound bigger than we were. As a smaller digital marketing agency, we thought that bigger was better. Surely potential clients would prefer to work with a larger agency than our small team, right?
But we quickly realized that being a small agency was actually an advantage. Being small meant we could experiment faster, be more responsive, and offer our clients a better experience. It also meant that we could keep our overhead low and our pricing competitive.
The truth is, one of the reasons we started this company in the first place was to break the mold of the “Mad Men”-era agency. We wanted to start a small digital marketing agency that didn’t depend on elaborate pitch theatre or expensive dinners to woo clients. Being small helps us keep that mission front and center.
So without further ado, let’s review the top benefits of working with a small digital marketing agency.
5 Benefits of working with a smaller digital marketing agency
1. Agility
The first benefit of working with a small digital marketing agency is that they are more agile. To be successful, you need to test often. Smaller agencies tend to have fewer departments and leaders, which makes it easier to experiment, react, and pivot.
For example, in my experience, changes to a campaign at a larger agency can feel like turning a submarine around. There are so many internal processes and red tape that it can be hard to get anything done, let alone make changes.
As a smaller agency, we can spot opportunities for our clients and offer creative solutions quickly.
2. Greater transparency
Smaller agencies are usually more transparent than their larger counterparts. They’re more honest about what they can and can’t do. They’re also more transparent when it comes to budgets.
Larger, more traditional agencies have a history of packaging up campaigns without outlining the true costs. For that reason, businesses that want more control over their digital spend might choose to work with a smaller agency.
3. Less overhead
Smaller digital marketing agencies generally have less staff, lower overhead costs, and fewer overhead expenses such as rent, office equipment, software, and other costs associated with running a business. They also typically have fewer clients and less complex projects, which allows them to be more efficient and cost-effective.
4. More attention
Smaller digital marketing agencies can give their clients more attention than larger agencies. Their digital solutions tend to be more customized, which can make it easier for them to focus on the unique needs of each individual client.
Additionally, smaller agencies usually have fewer clients, allowing them to dedicate more time to each one.
5. Collaborative relationship
A small digital marketing agency can act as an extension of your own team. They are better equipped to act as a partner, rather than just a service provider. They are more open to forging a truly collaborative relationship and understanding your brand on a deeper level.
A good partner will help you understand your costs, project your return on investment, and understand what’s working (and what’s not working). These insights are key for long-term marketing success.
Redefining the agency-partner relationship
At Outlier Creative, we’re on a mission to redefine the agency-client relationship. We take the time to understand your business, your goals, and your customers. Then, we take a thoughtful look at if and how we can add value.
We help you understand the metrics, know the costs, and understand what’s really working to further your business goals. No illusions, barriers, or uncertainty.
If this sounds like a good fit, don’t hesitate to reach out!
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