Selecting a digital marketing agency partner can be a daunting process. If you are ready to take the plunge and hire this service, chances are you want to make the right decision. To do this, you need to make sure you are asking the right questions.

It is important to remember that selecting a digital marketing agency is not just about the agency but also about your business objectives and needs. Asking the right/best questions is a good first step toward a smart hire. Some of the questions to ask when evaluating digital marketing agencies can be found below.

How Do You See My Website Improving in the Next Three, Six, and 24 Months?

A digital agency can’t predict the future; however, they should be able and willing to estimate the results expected and to describe the reporting process they use. Remember, efforts from a digital marketing agency will not be seen overnight. Achieving quality results takes time and patience. When you are trying to find the right service provider, this question should be near the top of your list. You want to ensure their efforts align with your business goals.

Do the Employees at Your Agency Have Any Certifications or Qualifications?

Finding and hiring a digital marketing agency with certified employees will help you achieve your goals in most cases faster than an agency without these certifications. Try to find an agency that has employees with unique/individual certifications, along with agency-wide certifications. Remember, the most valued certifying entity is Google. Also, Google offers several certifications for digital marketers.

Who Will Be My Point of Contact and How Often Are Updates Provided?

Quality digital agencies will provide the clients with a dedicated account manager. This is the person who will act on behalf of the company and answer calls and emails from clients. Sometimes, if the agency is larger, their account managers may be stretched thin, which leads to bad service and poor communication. Try to find out what level of communication that you will receive.

Will I Retain Control of Marketing Material, Accounts, and Data at the End of the Contract?

It would help if you found an agency that practices ethical, open, and transparent behavior toward clients and the operation as a whole. This is particularly important if you have to end the partnership at some point. Digital agencies that require you to give up ownership of your accounts or hide your data should not be considered.

Do You Have Accreditations, References, or Case Studies that Highlight the Quality of Your Work?

Find out what past clients have said about the agency being considered. Look at testimonials, case studies, and reviews. Try to avoid fly-by-night operations.

With time and the right questions, you can find the right digital marketing agency for your needs. Keep the questions here in mind, as they will aid your search and ensure you find a company that will help you achieve your online goals.