Scott Bessell, Idea Builder at Sonnhalter
Over the years, I’ve watched the relationship trend between clients and agencies shift from a partnership level to a vendor level. I’ve seen it from both the client side and the agency side.
Many times budgets force the terms of these relationships to change, but when you’re looking for an agency (or at your current one) the primary question regarding your relationship is:
“Do I need a partner or a vendor?”
via Trevor Hurlbut
Understandably, agencies prefer to be partners. Partnership, like a good marriage, and integration into and with your marketing team and plans make it easier for us to do what you need and make us invested in your work, and in your success.
A few of the benefits of making your agency your partner, rather than your vendor, are:
- You know that you can call your agency and automatically be on the same page and your agency will regularly provide updates.
- Trust is something that is earned, which takes time and is natural in a long-term partnership. It cannot be developed as an “on-call” vendor.
- You know, and can depend on, your agency to produce what you need, when you need it.
- You know your agency’s abilities and processes and your agency knows your message, your brand and your goals–in other words, you’re always on the same page.
Partnerships lead to a more secure, efficient and comfortable relationship. And if the word “partnership” makes you uncomfortable, might I suggest “going steady?” It’s certainly better than a one-nighter.