Guide: How to vet an advertising agency
Guide: How to vet an advertising agency
Written by
Asger Olsson
11 min read
11 min read
11 min read
Vetting an advertising agency can be tricky. Most agencies have similar technical knowledge of ad platforms, targeting, and placements. However, what truly separates a great agency from the rest isn’t just their technical prowess—it’s their engagement, adaptability, and commitment to their clients.
Here’s how to ensure you’re choosing an agency that’s invested in your success.
Vetting an advertising agency can be tricky. Most agencies have similar technical knowledge of ad platforms, targeting, and placements. However, what truly separates a great agency from the rest isn’t just their technical prowess—it’s their engagement, adaptability, and commitment to their clients.
Here’s how to ensure you’re choosing an agency that’s invested in your success.
Vetting an advertising agency can be tricky. Most agencies have similar technical knowledge of ad platforms, targeting, and placements. However, what truly separates a great agency from the rest isn’t just their technical prowess—it’s their engagement, adaptability, and commitment to their clients.
Here’s how to ensure you’re choosing an agency that’s invested in your success.
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What separates a great agency from a good one?
While ad expertise is important, the real difference between agencies lies in their approach and dedication. These three traits set the great apart from the good:
Adaptability
Are they quick to modify, turn off, or adapt ads based on performance data and market changes?
Do they adjust strategies proactively rather than reactively?
Deep engagement
Do they take the time to understand not just your business, but also your customers?
Do they analyze customer feedback, read reviews, and refine messaging accordingly?
Proactivity
Do they bring forward-thinking ideas, anticipate challenges, and solve problems before they escalate?
Are they actively working toward your goals rather than just executing tasks?
In essence, while technical knowledge is necessary, a great agency thrives on continuous improvement, strategic thinking, and a commitment to excellence. Without execution, knowledge remains just potential.
Action steps: How to vet an advertising agency
When considering a partnership, move beyond technical vetting and prioritize these three steps:
1. Deep dive into past partnerships
Request case studies that demonstrate adaptability, engagement, and proactivity.
Look for proof of how they’ve adjusted campaigns, engaged with client audiences, and solved problems creatively.
2. Propose hypothetical scenarios
Present them with a marketing challenge and observe their response.
Do they offer a customized solution or rely on generic strategies?
Assess their understanding of customer sentiment and brand positioning.
3. Open a dialogue
Engage in a conversation about your vision and goals.
Gauge their level of commitment and alignment with your objectives.
A strong agency relationship is built on shared ambitions and mutual respect.
Conclusion
In marketing, knowledge without execution means nothing. To ensure success, choose an agency that not only understands advertising but also actively works to push your business forward. The right agency will be adaptable, engaged, and proactive—turning strategy into tangible results.
What separates a great agency from a good one?
While ad expertise is important, the real difference between agencies lies in their approach and dedication. These three traits set the great apart from the good:
Adaptability
Are they quick to modify, turn off, or adapt ads based on performance data and market changes?
Do they adjust strategies proactively rather than reactively?
Deep engagement
Do they take the time to understand not just your business, but also your customers?
Do they analyze customer feedback, read reviews, and refine messaging accordingly?
Proactivity
Do they bring forward-thinking ideas, anticipate challenges, and solve problems before they escalate?
Are they actively working toward your goals rather than just executing tasks?
In essence, while technical knowledge is necessary, a great agency thrives on continuous improvement, strategic thinking, and a commitment to excellence. Without execution, knowledge remains just potential.
Action steps: How to vet an advertising agency
When considering a partnership, move beyond technical vetting and prioritize these three steps:
1. Deep dive into past partnerships
Request case studies that demonstrate adaptability, engagement, and proactivity.
Look for proof of how they’ve adjusted campaigns, engaged with client audiences, and solved problems creatively.
2. Propose hypothetical scenarios
Present them with a marketing challenge and observe their response.
Do they offer a customized solution or rely on generic strategies?
Assess their understanding of customer sentiment and brand positioning.
3. Open a dialogue
Engage in a conversation about your vision and goals.
Gauge their level of commitment and alignment with your objectives.
A strong agency relationship is built on shared ambitions and mutual respect.
Conclusion
In marketing, knowledge without execution means nothing. To ensure success, choose an agency that not only understands advertising but also actively works to push your business forward. The right agency will be adaptable, engaged, and proactive—turning strategy into tangible results.
What separates a great agency from a good one?
While ad expertise is important, the real difference between agencies lies in their approach and dedication. These three traits set the great apart from the good:
Adaptability
Are they quick to modify, turn off, or adapt ads based on performance data and market changes?
Do they adjust strategies proactively rather than reactively?
Deep engagement
Do they take the time to understand not just your business, but also your customers?
Do they analyze customer feedback, read reviews, and refine messaging accordingly?
Proactivity
Do they bring forward-thinking ideas, anticipate challenges, and solve problems before they escalate?
Are they actively working toward your goals rather than just executing tasks?
In essence, while technical knowledge is necessary, a great agency thrives on continuous improvement, strategic thinking, and a commitment to excellence. Without execution, knowledge remains just potential.
Action steps: How to vet an advertising agency
When considering a partnership, move beyond technical vetting and prioritize these three steps:
1. Deep dive into past partnerships
Request case studies that demonstrate adaptability, engagement, and proactivity.
Look for proof of how they’ve adjusted campaigns, engaged with client audiences, and solved problems creatively.
2. Propose hypothetical scenarios
Present them with a marketing challenge and observe their response.
Do they offer a customized solution or rely on generic strategies?
Assess their understanding of customer sentiment and brand positioning.
3. Open a dialogue
Engage in a conversation about your vision and goals.
Gauge their level of commitment and alignment with your objectives.
A strong agency relationship is built on shared ambitions and mutual respect.
Conclusion
In marketing, knowledge without execution means nothing. To ensure success, choose an agency that not only understands advertising but also actively works to push your business forward. The right agency will be adaptable, engaged, and proactive—turning strategy into tangible results.
Ready to scale your brand to new heights?
If you want to break through plateaus, improve profitability, and scale sustainably, with a proactive partner, then you're at the right place.
Ready to scale your brand to new heights?
Build a business that scales itself. If you want to break through plateaus, improve profitability, and scale sustainably, with a proactive partner, then you're at the right place.
Ready to scale your brand to new heights?
Build a business that scales itself. If you want to break through plateaus, improve profitability, and scale sustainably, with a proactive partner, then you're at the right place.
Ready to scale your brand to new heights?
Build a business that scales itself. If you want to break through plateaus, improve profitability, and scale sustainably, with a proactive partner, then you're at the right place.