What is the hardest part about running a digital marketing agency?
If you ask anyone who has had to build a digital marketing agency from the ground up, they will tell you it is the marketing efforts it takes to get more clients. This is the one struggle that all digital marketing agencies around the world must go through as they strive to grow and become highly sought-after agencies.
As such, the big question as you strive to build your pipeline as a small business in the digital marketing and advertising world is – how can I get more clients?
Here we look at what it takes to find clients as an agency that is after long-term success.
Define your specialties and target market
The stiff-neck competition in the digital marketing world has redefined the business landscape. Long gone are the days when all you had to do was simply sell yourself as a marketing agency. Today, you have to go beyond this ‘general picture’ and reach out to potential clients by answering the questions – what services do you offer, and how will they help the business.
By defining your specialties, you seize to be just another business as you transform into a prospective partner who can offer great value to a customer. The best part is that once you have definite specialties, you can narrow down your target market.
For example, if you are a web designing agency, you can focus on the real estate industry or eCommerce businesses. This way, you get to have a definite target market that allows you truly understand their needs and expectations.
The competitive edge you gain by defining your digital marketing specialty and target market is getting a better outreach strategy.
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Have a specific value proposition
Now that you already know your target market, it is time to find their pain points and use them to develop a unique and specific value proposition. Primarily, this is whereby you make known what differentiates your agency from other marketing agencies that offer similar services.
Value propositions that will make potential customers want to know more about your agency must have a personal touch that proves you know what you are doing. Companies are tired of general partnerships and are after marketing agencies that already know what they want. By making it clear you can deliver A, B, and C within a given timeline and at a favorable rate, your email will be flooded, and your phone will constantly be ringing.
When making your specific value proposition, it is advisable to utilize the winning formula:
• Be Clear.
Does your proposition directly answer the questions of a client, or does it need further explanation? Use simple language that even skimming through the proposition will instantly get what is important and distinct about your agency. A powerful call to action always does the trick, and the more unique it is, the better.
• Be Concise.
Do you have to use an entire paragraph or two to put across a point when a single sentence would suffice? Then you need to re-do your proposition until it can captivate your target market with the fewest words possible. Go straight for the kill, or do not go hunting.
• Be Consistent.
The modern client is quite demanding and can instantly tell when they are about to receive a raw deal. How do you avoid sending the wrong signals? Make sure the value guaranteed remains consistent across all your landing pages and marketing channels.
Market your digital marketing agency with a focus on your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
After coming up with your unique selling proposition, it is now time to use it to help you get more clients. There are several ways to go about this, and the best way to go about this is by:
Marketing on Social media channels
Social media channels have evolved from being platforms that you only used to keep in touch with your social circle to a bridge that connects you to endless business opportunities. This has been why most social media platforms today are trying to find a better way to make it friendlier for business to market their products or services and run ads.
As a digital marketing agency, you can use social media platform to your advantage by using it to score agency clients. Among the ways you can do this is through:
i. Making use of Facebook
With over a billion active users, Facebook is the king of social media channels regarding numbers. The best part is that it allows you to run high-quality Facebook ads that target a specific demographic. You will also have the pleasure of joining FaceBook groups that bring together agencies and clients looking for marketing and advertising services.
ii. Go the LinkedIn way.
LinkedIn has always been the social channel that allows individuals and businesses to connect to prospective customers and professionals. The introduction of LinkedIn ads makes it easier to reach out to companies that fall under your target market.
iii. Join the buzz by having a presence on Instagram and TikTok.
Everyone is taking a video today and posting it online, thanks to TikTok and Instagram. Well, these platforms have also provided a new channel for growing your target audience as companies have an interest where there are numbers. Post fun, informative, and trending content here, and you will see your client list grow.
iv. The power of a tweet
Twitter cannot be forgotten when it comes to digital marketing as all it takes is a single viral tweet, and the right businesses will be in your DM.
Google Ads, blogging, and content marketing
Similar to other digital marketing agencies, your number one objective should be to rank highly in search engines. To do this, you have to be prepared to invest in the best SEO techniques to attract quality leads. Content marketing efforts and blogging are key pillars that will make you gain influence through thought leadership. On the other hand, Google ads will allow you to take advantage of companies after instant digital marketing services.
Online forums and communities
Joining online forums and communities specializing in digital marketing and advertising is a reliable way of attracting quality leads. You can always be sure that at any given moment, there is a company advertising for these services or a business manager shopping around for the right marketing agency.
PPC Advertising
Pay-Per-Click (PPC) advertising is another key strategy. Use Google Ads to target relevant keywords and run campaigns on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Retarget users who have visited your site but haven’t converted yet to keep your agency top of mind.
Email Marketing
Email marketing campaigns are powerful for nurturing leads and converting them into new clients. Agencies can generate substantial revenue through well-crafted email campaigns. Segment your email list to send personalized content, share agency’s valuable insights and success stories, and use automation tools to maintain consistent engagement with your subscribers.
Strong Online Presence
You need to get out of your comfort zone to get more clients for your agency. You can do this by:
SEO
First, focus on Search Engine Optimization (SEO) to boost your online visibility. Use SEO keywords that potential clients search for, optimize your website’s title tags, meta descriptions, headers, and content and regularly publish high-quality blog posts and case studies. Also, make sure your website is fast, mobile-friendly, and easy to navigate.
Embrace the power of networking
Make use of your existing customers to grow your customer base. All it takes is a good word from a friend, current satisfied clients, and professional associates to have clients calling. You should also strive to develop partnerships with other agencies, especially when you can mutually benefit.
For example, as a web design agency can partner with an SEO or content marketing firm to develop content for their potential clients.
Be part of popular webinars, online conferences, free consultations, or trials.
Quality recognizes quality, and there is no better way to position your agency for success than being part of marketing events. Attending digital marketing industry events is a strategic way to stay updated with the latest trends, network with other industry professionals, and showcase your agency’s expertise. Whether these events are conducted online or at a physical venue, being part of these occasions will help expand your network. Now that you are backed by an expanded network, getting new clients stops being a hassle.
Leverage on reviews
One of the best ways to get more clients is by leveraging the power of positive reviews. Companies will quickly trust your agency if they are confident you have worked with other companies and delivered outstanding results.
Online Marketplaces and Directories to Get Clients
Finding new clients is all about exploring every option, and online marketplaces and directories are a great place to start. Think of them as bustling online communities where businesses searching for digital marketing help can connect with agencies like yours.
Here’s why these platforms are so valuable:
Tons of Opportunities
Websites like Legiit, Upwork, and Freelancer are like virtual job boards, overflowing with projects from all sorts of businesses. With the right approach, you can find a constant stream of potential clients.
Shine Bright
Your profile on these platforms is your shop window. Invest some time in making it amazing! Highlight your agency’s strengths, showcase your best work, and explain what makes you special. Remember, it’s like online shopping – you want attract potential clients to stop and take notice!
The Power of Recommendations
Happy clients are the best salespeople! Encourage them to leave glowing reviews on your profile. These existing clients positive endorsements build trust and make it easier for new businesses to choose you.
Bidding Like a Pro
When applying for projects, tailor your bids to the specific needs of each job. Be competitive on price, but don’t undervalue your expertise. There’s a sweet spot – affordable but high quality!
Be Responsive
No one likes to be ignored! Actively respond to inquiries from potential clients and participate in relevant discussions. Showcasing your responsiveness and knowledge makes a great impression and helps you land more projects.
Grow Beyond the Basics
Legiit, Upwork, Freelancer, and Clutch are fantastic starting points. As you gain experience, explore niche directories and marketplaces that cater to your specific industry. These targeted platforms can be even more lucrative for finding the perfect prospective clients.
Conclusion
Getting more clients for your digital marketing agency is a fundamental process that you can never disregard. It is the very bloodline of your agency, and the better you are at it, the more companies you can attract and command higher rates.
