Is it better to use an in-house resource or hire a marketing consultant?
There are pros and cons to consider when you hire a marketing consultant. And their experience and approach will impact the results they’ll deliver.
So, if you’re debating whether to outsource or go in-house, this blog will help you decide.
What is a marketing consultant?
In my experience, whether your marketing resource is outsourced or in-house, they should be strategic in their approach.
This means they’ll spend time understanding your business, industry, customers, pain points and needs. Then, they’ll present a carefully considered plan to help you achieve your goals.
A marketing consultant is usually a freelance professional who works as a sole trader or Limited Company. They may work with one client or multiple clients at the same time.
Critically, you do not employ them and do not need to pay their PAYE or any benefits. Instead, you’ll usually pay a pre-agreed day rate, with clear outlines of what you’ll get in return for your investment.
What does a marketing consultant do?
A good consultant can do one, more or all of the following;
- plug a skills gap in your team for a short period or long-term
- serve as an objective sounding board for ideas and challenges
- act as the voice of the customer to ensure you meet your audience’s needs
- offer on-demand expertise and achieve quick results
- work autonomously or as an extension of your team
- implement a strategic marketing plan over an agreed timeframe
- measure the impact of their input and show return on investment
So, should you hire a marketing consultant?
This depends on what you’re looking to achieve, and how quickly.
Usually, consultants are highly experienced. This means they can achieve more in less time than a junior in-house employee. You won’t need to train them or provide any equipment like laptops and phones. The consultant will have all the tools and knowledge they need to perform the job.
However, it can take a bit of time for a consultant to understand the intricacies of your business or industry. So you may not get results straight away.
A good consultant will be able to estimate the cost to you upfront. And, they’ll be clear about when you can expect to see results.
For example, a social media campaign might produce results straight away, but can be costly. Organic SEO will take longer to have an impact, but can be more affordable and more effective in the long-term.
It’s important that the consultant sets your expectations at the start of the project. Then, they should update you at key touchpoints throughout the length of your contract with them.
Which brings us to the next question…
Should you set up a contract with a new consultant?
This varies from one consultant to another. Some freelancers will have a standard contract. They’ll send this to all new clients before any work begins.
Alternatively, you might want to set up a contract for your consultant to sign. This will detail the scope of work and legal expectations so both parties are protected as you enter the relationship.
If you already know the consultant you plan to hire, and can vouch for their credibility and integrity, a contract might not be necessary. But some sort of agreement in writing is always a good idea.
Need help with your marketing?
I offer strategic marketing services to clients who want to grow their business, at pace.
With nearly two decades’ digital experience across leading brands, I’m well placed to help you achieve your goals.
Get in touch for a free, no obligation consultation!
Email me on info@jaclynbradshaw.co.uk
