When it comes to charging their clients, advertising agencies have a variety of methods they can use. The most common is the hourly rate, where the agency will track the number of hours required to complete the project and charge a fixed rate for each hour. This is a great model for those just starting out, but it can be difficult to scale. Another option is to quote a certain number of hours and have the client pay in advance, with any overages invoiced after the project is completed.
Retainer-based models are also popular, where the client pays for work done on an ongoing basis. This fee structure can be based on a set number of hours, the work expected to be performed, or a combination of both. Digital marketers who are setting up their own agencies should also look for ways to grow their business. By determining and constantly evolving their pricing model, they can increase profitability, growth and customer satisfaction.
In addition to the fee, agencies may also apply a surcharge on any external services used, such as typography, printing, photography or video production. A digital agency that is new to the market may take longer to perform tasks and may need to charge a lower rate than more experienced agencies. According to the American Association of Advertising Agencies, there is a continuum of pricing structures that reflects the diversity of agency services. Marketing agencies should consider offering flexible or discounted annual pricing plans for their clients in order to build lasting relationships.
I recommend starting with project-based pricing and then experimenting with a profit-sharing model. Improved technology and communications have enabled mid-sized marketing companies to do almost the same level of work as large agencies, with significant savings. Agencies charge an hourly rate for time spent managing an account, creating ads, booking media and purchasing services. A similar topic has been raised in recent years with Internet marketing agencies, especially SEO agencies.
A down payment means that the client pays the agency a fixed amount each month or year to manage their marketing efforts. To ensure success for your digital marketing agency, list it among industry leaders, promote your work, create original content, find new team members and keep up to date with digital marketing events. When you've worked hard to build a reputation for your agency and you know you can achieve positive results, consider adopting a performance-based pricing model. Ultimately, only you can determine what is an acceptable profit margin for your digital marketing agency. By offering flexible or discounted annual pricing plans for digital marketing agencies, you are in a position to claim a lasting relationship.
