What Do Brands Really Want From Their Agency?

<p>Do you know what brands want from an agency? What do they look for when deciding to work with an agency? Are you looking for a way to stand out in a world of "me too" agencies? Often, the best way to get noticed is to embrace who you are.</p> <p>In today's episode, we'll cover:</p> <ul> <li>The biggest disconnect between brands and agencies.</li> <li>#1 reason brands prefer working with niche agencies.</li> <li>3 ways your agency can stand out.</li> </ul> <p>Today I sat down for an enlightening conversation with Robby Berthume, CEO of <a href="https://www.bullandbeard.com/">Bull & Beard</a>, an agency collective based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Robby works with agencies and brands to help them come together to find the perfect fit. He's here to discuss what brands are looking for in an agency, and what you can do to win brand contracts.</p> <h2>The Biggest Disconnect Between Brands and Agencies</h2> <p>There's a lot of disconnect between brands and agencies. While the end game is the same, typically, there is a lot of disagreement about how to get there. Robby says, one of the biggest disconnects he sees is in the area of pricing.</p> <p>When a brand comes in with a set budget, agencies tend to just accept it as is. If we push back and say we need a little more or the budget is unrealistic, the brand may choose to go somewhere else. But what if you look at it from a different vantage point?</p> <p>Robby says <a href= "https://jasonswenk.com/value-based-pricing/">pricing can help you gain credibility</a> and earn a brand's respect. Sure you can tell a client you can come in at a certain price point, but you're not doing yourself any favors. When you're straightforward about the cost of a project and what your services are worth, you'll earn the client's trust.</p> <h2>#1 Reason Brands Prefer Working With Niche Agencies</h2> <p>We've talked about <a href= "https://jasonswenk.com/niche-agency-important/">declaring a niche</a> endlessly. I'm a strong believer in declaring a niche in order to separate your a