Having a good fit between agency and brand partner is one of our core beliefs at Celtic. When we say, “great relationships often start over a cup of coffee,” we’re talking about our process. The first step is having a conversation. We want to get to know the people we may be working with, and we invite them to get to know us, too.
When you’re looking for an agency, ultimately you’re looking for people you can trust. Whether those people have a slew of co-workers or work in swanky offices isn’t as important as knowing that they are going to be devoted to your brand’s success.
When you’re looking for support, think about your vision for the relationship and ask yourself a few questions:
- How will you and your agency communicate, and how often?
- Are in-person meetings important to you?
- What type of expertise are you most interested in? (If you are expecting an integrated campaign, for example, a shop specializing in one discipline may not be your best bet.)
- How important is it to you for your agency to have experience in your brand’s category?
- How do you see your team and the agency’s team working together?
Once you have an idea of what you’re looking for, choosing the right agency to partner with really comes down to the right fit. If personalities, goals, experience, budgets, and timing all seem like what you had in mind when you began your search, then congratulations – you may have found your match. If you don’t feel comfortable, think about what’s causing it. It may be something minor, but if it’s something that’s really bothering you, don’t be afraid to keep searching for the right fit. When you work with people you truly enjoy, it can take you (and your brand) to unbelievable places.