How to choose a performance creative agency in 2024!

Let’s face it—choosing the right performance creative agency for your eCommerce brand can feel a bit like dating. There are plenty of potential partners out there, each with their own strengths and (cough) quirks… and finding "the one" that truly understands you and fits your needs can be a challenge. But when you get it right, you’ll feel on top of the world.

1. Define Your Goals

Before you dive into agency options, get crystal clear on what you want to achieve. Are you aiming to boost sales, increase website traffic, or enhance brand engagement? Your goals will guide your choice, so be specific. The clearer you are about your objectives, the easier it will be for you to find an agency that aligns with them.

2. Look for Relevant Experience

You don’t necessarily need to find an agency with exact experience in your industry, but having some relevant experience can be quite useful. It’s beneficial to see examples of their work with other clients, as it might reveal similarities and insights that could be applicable to your own brand.

• Industry Experience: Look for agencies with a solid track record in the eCommerce sector. They should have a deep understanding of the nuances of online retail and consumer behaviour. An agency with relevant experience will be familiar with the latest tips, techniques, and best practices that can help ensure ongoing success for your brand. Below is an example of how we have relevant experience in the fashion & sports industry, working for our client Zone3
• Case Studies and Testimonials: Review their past work and client feedback to gauge their success in delivering results similar to what you’re aiming for. The proof is in the pudding after all.

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3. Evaluate Their Creative Approach

Unsurprisingly, most “creative” performance agencies will boast about their creativity. But here’s the thing: creativity alone doesn’t always cut it, and it can sometimes be more hype than substance. To truly make a difference, creative work needs to be backed up by performance.

• Portfolio Review: Examine their creative work. Does it resonate with you? Does it stand out and engage audiences effectively?
• Innovation: Ensure they don’t just follow trends but set them. A good agency should bring fresh, original ideas to the table.

4. Assess Data-Driven Strategies

A performance creative agency should be a data powerhouse for your eCommerce brand, as well as the creative. They need to excel at using data to guide every decision, from tracking campaign performance in real time to adjusting strategies based on solid metrics. In a world where every click counts, make sure your agency’s approach to data is as sharp as their creative ideas.

• Analytics Expertise: They should be skilled in analysing campaign performance and making data-driven adjustments.
• Transparency: Look for agencies that provide clear, detailed reports and insights on how your campaigns are performing, secrecy is a red flag!

5. Consider Their Approach to Collaboration

You’ll want an agency that truly meshes with your team and gets your vision. Sure, there will be many agencies that can deliver impressive results, but if you’ve not on the same wave length, even the best strategies and data won’t hit the mark. A good agency should integrate seamlessly into your operations, collaborate effectively, and fully understand your brand’s objectives to drive the best outcomes.

• Communication Style: Are they responsive and clear in their communication? Do they listen to your ideas and feedback?
• Project Management: Assess their approach to managing projects. Are they organised and capable of meeting deadlines?

6. Understand Their Pricing Structure

Pricing in the performance creative industry can vary widely, so it’s crucial to understand exactly what you’re getting for your investment. Don’t just focus on the price tag—dig into what’s included in the package and how it aligns with your needs.

• Pricing Models: Understand their pricing structure—whether it’s project-based, retainer, or performance-based.
• Value for Money: Ensure that the cost aligns with your budget and the value they promise to deliver.

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Looking for more help with pricing structure? Read our article here

7. Ask for References

Don’t be shy about asking for references from their past or current clients. Give them a call or drop them a message to get the tea on what it’s like working with the agency. Think of it as a chance to get the inside gossip—find out if the agency is as great as they claim to be or if they’re just good at talking a big game. Remember, any decent agency will be more than happy to let you hear reviews straight from the horses' mouths.

Read our reviews here

8. Start with a Trial Project

Don’t be shy about asking for references from their past or current clients. Give them a call or drop them a message to get the real scoop on what it’s like working with the agency. Think of it as a chance to get the inside gossip—find out if the agency is as great as they claim to be or if they’re just good at talking a big game. Remember, any decent agency will be more than happy to let you hear reviews straight from the horses' mouths.

Conclusion

Choosing the right performance creative agency is all about understanding what you need, sizing up potential partners, and making sure they tick the boxes for experience, creativity, and collaboration. If you're getting good vibes from us and want to chat or learn more, just drop us a message at hello@trendygrandad.com—we may just be the perfect match you’ve been looking for…

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