How to Hire an Email Agency (that's actually good)
If you’re looking for a specialized agency to improve your email marketing channel, knowing how to hire an email agency is key.
Partnering with the right agency isn’t just about making emails look good. You need to be able to trust them with a LOT of important, sensitive areas of your business.
This is extremely important!
Key Questions to Ask Before you Hire An Email Agency
What Metrics Do They Prioritize?
If an agency talks only about open rates and click-through rates, that’s a red flag.
While these metrics matter, they’re only the tip of the iceberg.
Ask if they track metrics like subscriber retention, list growth/ health, repeat purchases and conversion rates.
What Is Their Approach to Deliverability?
Deliverability isn’t just make or break for your email marketing channel.
It’s make or break for your business’ domain.
A good agency should have a clear, data-backed strategy for maintaining and improving your deliverability.
This is crucial because once your domain’s reputation is damaged, it’s extremely difficult to recover.
So if you own a popular, high value domain, like consulting.com, it could be destroyed by improper management of your email list.
Ask how they ensure your emails stay out of the spam folder and what steps they take to protect your deliverability.
How Do They Protect Your Brand?
Your brand is your most valuable asset.
You’ve put in the work to build it, so make sure the agency values and respects that.
Ask about their process for aligning with your brand voice, visuals, and messaging.
An agency should act as an extension of your team, with a rigorous approval process in place.
Can They Walk You Through Their Onboarding Process?
A good agency is built on solid systems.
Their onboarding process should be seamless and organized, not chaotic.
Ask them to walk you through their onboarding step-by-step.
If they can’t, that’s a sign that the service they deliver will also be the same.
When You hire an email agency, Who Will Be Managing Your Account?
Ensure that you meet the actual people who will manage your account.
The last thing you want is to be handed off to someone who doesn’t understand (or care about) your business.
You need a dedicated team that cares about your growth and treats your account with the attention it deserves.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Skipping An Audit
Always ask for an audit before committing. A good agency will be eager to put together a compelling plan that outlines their approach and demonstrates their understanding of your needs.
Key Takeaways For How to Hire an email Agency
- Question Metrics Beyond the Basics: Look for an agency that focuses on metrics like revenue and conversion.
- Ensure Strong Deliverability Practices: Ask about their approach to keeping emails out of spam folders, and protecting your domain name.
- Brand Protection Is a Must: Choose a partner who respects and aligns with your brand values.
- Evaluate Their Onboarding Process: A seamless onboarding process shows the agency is organized and experienced.
- Meet Your Team: Speak with the actual team members managing your account to ensure they’re committed to your success.
Choosing the right Email Marketing Agency is crucial for long-term success.
Shawfire Media’s approach emphasizes transparency, expertise, and a deep understanding of eCommerce dynamics.
Don’t just hire an agency—partner with one that has your growth and brand integrity at heart.