Choosing a communications agency that’s right for your business can be a daunting task. It’s like Goldilocks finding the perfect bowl of porridge; not too hot, not too cold, just right.
KVA is a unique network of top communicators, writers and strategists that aims to make our clients lives easier by acting as an extension of their communications team. Over the years, our team has been in the shoes of clients managing agencies, and agencies managing clients, so we’ve learned a thing or two about building a ‘just right’ communications partnership. Here are our four tips to making it as successful as possible.
An Integrated Approach
Some companies opt to use multiple agencies to handle comms because each one has siloed experts to provide specific skills and knowledge. While there may be benefits to this, there are also miscommunication risks that can harm a business’s brand messaging and efforts. Integrated marketing communications (IMC) agencies offer a combination of communication services – a “one-stop-shop”, if you will. The agency works as a strategic partner, making the communication process quick and simple. They’re also able to communicate changes, coordinate efforts and brainstorm new ideas more effectively and efficiently.
Ability to Quickly Adapt
Even with the most thought out and strategic communications plan, things can change. Timelines shift, employees leave, scenarios are altered….change is the only constant! Having a comms partner that is able to quickly pivot when well-laid plans are disrupted is crucial. Knowing that your comms agency can quickly adapt, pivot or completely redo communication plans and messaging, and do it with a smile, will bring you peace of mind.
An Extension of Your Team
Look for a communications agency with great business acumen and one that has your best interests at heart. This enables a seamless partnership so that a communications agency can simply be an extension of your existing operations. Building strong relationships with your comms partner ensures that all stakeholders are aligned with clear objectives, measurable outcomes and a comprehensive understanding of messaging. The better your relationship with your communications agency, the more value the team can add as a business partner.
Demonstrated Stability With Other Clients
Pick a comms partner who has demonstrated stability and long-term relationships with their existing customers, and speak to their references. If they check out, chances are they can reliably support you too. You need to have complete trust in your communications agency because everything they do for you reflects back on your business. It’s important to have a natural chemistry so you work well together, achieve the results you want and also have some fun together.
Feeling like Goldilocks and still searching for a “just right” communications partner? If so, reach out to us at connect@kellyvoelker.com or let’s talk.
