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Today, we bring you 10 simple, cost effective and repeatable tips for finding new digital agency clients. In the dynamic landscape of online marketing, finding new digital agency clients is a perpetual challenge. Many agencies, like yours, have relied on organic methods and networking to build their client base, and, to be clear, these are still great acquisition methods. However, as the industry evolves, diversifying your approach becomes essential if you’re keen to find new digital agency clients.
Running ads on any platform can be very expensive in this hotly contested niche (try running ads on Google for “Digital Marketing Agency Near Me” and see how much you pay per click!). Incorporating direct outreach, community engagement and an optimized sales funnel can yield remarkable results that are repeatable and consistent, allowing you to attract new clients and thrive in a competitive market.
We have ensured the following 10 tips are simple, cost effective and repeatable (we can’t all take Google’s stand-by auto advice ‘we suggest you increase budget’!)
A strong value proposition is the foundation of attracting new clients. Clearly communicate what sets your agency apart and how your services can solve their unique challenges. Include case studies that showcase past successes, demonstrating your expertise and ability to deliver results.
Moreover, consider specializing in a specific niche; this focused approach can make your agency more appealing to potential clients seeking expertise in their industry. While many of us glibly (and jokingly) say “any client who’ll pay us to do a great job” is our niche, the reality is that specialization can signal strong authority and present a great buying signal to a potential client.
You can read more about value propositions here
Combining outbound emails and LinkedIn outreach can be a powerful way to engage potential clients. Consider hiring a skilled content writer from platforms like Fiverr to craft a persuasive outbound email series and integrated LinkedIn messages. The synergy between these two platforms enhances your chances of engaging prospects. For instance, you can reference an email in your LinkedIn message or vice versa, reinforcing your agency’s value proposition.
In addition to the cold outbound sequence, you’ll also want a short, pre-call nurturing email sequence for your prospects who have booked a call with you.
In your email outreach, we would suggest delivering some genuine value, for free, ungated. You are still trying to create a connection here, and delivering real value for free is a great way to get a prospect to take the time to look at your message.
A short video or pdf that demonstrates your expertise in their industry, and teaches them something they didn’t know is exactly what you are looking for here.
For prospects that open your email (trackable by your CRM of course) but don’t reply or book a call with you, have a written (or better yet, video) testimonial to email them. Often this email will coax a reluctant or busy business owner to reply. You can also use a testimonial in your pre-call nurture sequence.
But if it’s video, don’t make it long. No one will watch a 10 minute testimonial, people don’t have that kind of attention span; people are busy. I mean, I’ll watch a 10 minute dog rescue video without thinking twice… but outside of that, I’m picky as well; we’re all time poor so it’s important to respect the eyeballs we earn via our outreach.
When finding new digital agency clients is the goal, LinkedIn, being a professional networking platform, is a goldmine for connecting with your marketplace. Utilize tools like LinkedIn Navigator to identify businesses that align with your targeted niche.
While the Navigator comes at a cost ($$$$), it can be a worthwhile investment to access quality leads. Thoroughly research and curate a list of potential clients before moving on to the next step.
To efficiently reach out to your curated list, you need to know the email addresses of your prospects (LinkedIn does not provide this). You can use third party email finding tools (often available for minimal investment through platforms like AppSumo). Some examples: Rocketreach, clearout, and getprospect.
These tools help you gather accurate email addresses, minimizing the chances of your emails landing in spam folders. Validated contact details ensure your outreach efforts are more likely to yield positive results.
Streamline your outreach efforts by using outreach sequence tools such as Woodpecker. Create personalized sequences of emails and LinkedIn messages to engage your prospects consistently and systematically.
It’s also advisable to use a product like warmupinbox with a fresh domain name for your email sequences if you are going to be sending more than 30 or 40 emails each week. You don’t want your main domain to be flagged for spam!
Once your outreach efforts lead to interest from potential clients, make it easy for them to schedule appointments. Implement an efficient appointment booking system like Calendly, simplifying the process and demonstrating your agency’s professionalism and commitment.
Arguably, the best acquisition method is the one someone else instigates FOR you. If you have happy clients, incentivize them to tell other businesses about your services. Make it meaningful as, don’t forget, you’re looking for them to put their personal capital on the line for your business. Implement a referral system and be genuine about the gratitude and value you return to those that endorse you to their business contacts.
When you’re working on finding new digital agency clients don’t forget the human-to-human opportunities. If you’re looking for businesses from your community, get amongst your community. Understand what is happening in your local chamber of commerce, or business community groups. What business meet ups are available? Can you deliver any value in a speaking capacity at an event? If you’re seen as the authority on a topic, people will remember that when they’re looking for a (new) agency to work with.
Post pandemic, people are happy to attend events again, and in fact, from our experience, are actively seeking them!
By integrating these tips for finding new digital agency clients into your client acquisition process, your digital marketing agency can embark on a journey of consistent growth. Remember that a clear value proposition, combined with targeted outreach efforts and a systematic sales funnel paired with a human touch, can lead to fruitful results.
While paid advertising remains an option, this holistic approach can yield substantially higher returns for your investment. Stay committed, adapt to market trends, and continually refine your strategies to establish your agency as a leading force in the digital marketing arena.
We love talking PPC and spend most of our time chatting with agencies, so if you have a question please do drop us a line!
Also, Adpulse comes with a 14-day free trial, and right now the first month is only $19.99/mth, so it’s a low-risk way to try it for yourself. Sign up now!
