How to Choose an Agency

You've met them... at every networking event you've ever attended. They are the "web site" people; the graphic artists. They can do everything from designing your new web site to designing that new brochure you've been wanting, and can probably fix your kitchen sink too.

Here are some things to consider before contracting anyone for the purpose of helping you grow and promote your business:

1. How long have they been in business?

Will you get started with someone only to find they have disappeared or taken a "real job"? We've hear it time and again. That freelancer just up and vanished, leaving the client without their needed materials and with no where to turn.

2. Are you dealing with a professional, a "hobbyist," or worse yet, a complete novice?

So many people these days are selling web sites and brochures. What they are doing is grabbing a readily available cookie-cutter template, putting in a few photos (if you gave them poor quality images, you get poor quality images) and adding some text. Often, the text is not well-written and it is full of typographical errors. Sometimes, it may even have come from you! But, you know you are not the expert in this field - that is why you are seeking to hire one. Does the message being delivered appeal to your target market? Do you know?

3. Can the Firm provide continuity across multiple advertising venues to maximize branding for your product, service, or company?

If you have one person working on a web site, another on a brochure, and a third on a trade show, how cohesive of a look can you achieve? Continuity is extremely important when trying to build a brand.

4. What is their expertise?

Before you hire anyone, ask to see examples of work they have done for other companies. Is it professional looking? When looking at their clients' brochures, web sites and or trade show displays, is it evident you are looking at the same company? Call one of those companies and ask to speak to the person responsible for developing marketing materials. Then, ask them about the quality, professionalism, performance, and effectiveness of the work they received. Would they hire that firm again?

5. Versatility - do they have any?

If the company you wish to hire has only done work for banks and you own a manufacturing firm, you may want to think twice. Good agencies can grasp the essence of the clients they serve and translate that into messages that will appeal to the client's target market. Some play only one song.

6. Financial Stability

Don't hesitate to check out anyone you are considering hiring through Dunn & Bradstreet or a reputable credit reporting firm. If they don't pay their vendors on time, you may not be getting your goods on time.

Check back for tips pertaining specifically to hiring web developers/designers!

Visit www.jdhillinc.com for some examples of our portfolio of projects.