#1 – If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. 
Did they promise you the moon? Did they keep your hopes up but didn’t deliver? Agencies can’t control EVERYTHING! If they promise you results that nobody else can provide, ask them to prove it. Look for things that don’t add up. Sadly, the classic mistake of overpromising and under-delivering is an easy and quick way for some advertising agencies to gain your trust. You deserve an honest and down-to-earth agency. 

#2 – They got It, but do they get it?
No one knows your brand better than you do. If your agency is interested in solving your problems then they will ask questions and listen with their eyes and ears in order to learn your brand and to understand what you want. This takes time, but specificity will prevent misunderstandings later. 

“Listening is an important skill to spark creativity and cultivate empathy.”
― Pearl Zhu

#3 – They don’t communicate with you.
Communications is key. Duh! If they aren’t responsive and only reach out to you when it’s convenient for them, you know that’s a deal-breaker. Effective communication is the master key to your success and your relationship —any kind—.

Pro tip: Try to include your ad agency in important internal meetings, such as discussing timelines, strategies, and dependencies for getting things done.

#4 – Are they providing you with effective reporting? 
This is the second phase of the prior point “Communication is key”. Solid reporting can show you how transparent your agency is. You deserve to know what goes on behind the scenes.

You might think “Well, that’s a given”, but are they collecting and analyzing the right data? Are you seeing results? Are the reports easy to understand?

An effective report emphasizes the important information. It needs to be accurate, clear, and concise. Good reporting is a critical channel for good communication. 

 #5 – Do they give a DAMN? 
If the answer is no then you know where to go next *hint, hint*. 

DAMN Advertising + Digital is a design agency dedicated to creating show stopping designs that authentically connect with your company. Whether you plan to reach your audience through a new website, targeted emails or other digital marketing mediums, DAMN Ads has the years of experience and diverse skill sets needed to make your campaign a success. We give a DAMN about your company.