If you are clever, you will outsource certain jobs to third parties and marketing is one of those jobs. The reason it is a smart move is that outsourcing is cheaper and also increases standards. So, it is pretty vital to any modern business that is looking to boost their market share. However, going into partnership with an agency does not guarantee success because there are pitfalls. As such, it is possible to waste money in the long run. If that doesn’t appeal, the good news is you can ensure a healthy ROI with the following advice.

Choose Wisely

The first step is to pick an agency that will deliver. Now, it is a lot easy to say this than to do it, yet it isn’t impossible. The key is to carry out extensive research to cover all of the bases. For example, you want a partner that understands the business and the importance of continuity. Because you can’t trust a website to be biased, you have to reach out to neutral sources such as previous customers. Their feedback is a great tool as they have no reason to lie. As such, you can treat whatever they say as true. If it corroborates, then you are one step closing to pulling the trigger. If it doesn’t, it’s back to the drawing board.

Draw Up A Clear Brief

Probably the greatest mistake companies make when outsourcing is delegating. That sounds stupid because outsourcing is a form of delegation. Still, there are levels, and getting the right balance is an art. Quite simply, you shouldn’t say they know more about online marketing so they are in charge. Yes, they have more expertise when it comes to execution, but they don’t have a greater understanding of the business. That is why it is vital that you set out your vision and provide them with a clear brief. Then, they can follow your instructions and hit the goals you set out.

Communicate

Another error is to leave the outsourcer to their devices and wait for results. This isn’t a great tactic because it doesn’t encourage communication. And, there is no way to know whether both parties are on the same page without speaking. Therefore, it is essential that you call or email them once or twice a week to check in. Also, organize a meeting so they can show you where they are in the process. By doing this, there is no room for them not to be productive.

Be Flexible

On the flip side of the argument, there is no need to be a client from hell. After all, there has to be a level of trust once you sign on the dotted line. Otherwise, there is no point in hiring them in the first place. To get the balance, you must be flexible. For example, don’t set strict targets that are impossible to hit. Or, give them space to work freely and come up with ideas.

Face it  – it’s never easy to be creative with the boss breathing down your neck.