Starting a digital marketing agency can seem like a daunting task, especially if you’re new to the industry and don’t have a lot of capital to invest.
However, with the right approach and dedication, it’s possible to launch your own agency and scale it to $5,000 to $10,000 per month within 90 days, even with no experience.
In this article, we’ll explore the step-by-step process of starting a digital marketing agency from scratch, without the need for expensive courses or significant upfront investment.
Understanding the Digital Marketing Agency Business Model
Before diving into the specifics of client acquisition and service fulfillment, it’s important to understand the business model of a digital marketing agency, also known as a social media marketing agency (SMMA).
Essentially, you’ll be partnering with small local business owners, such as orthodontists, chiropractors, plumbers, or electricians, and providing them with marketing services to help grow their business. You’ll charge a monthly retainer for these services, which traditionally ranges from $1,500 to $2,000 per client.
However, this pricing strategy may not be sustainable for small businesses, leading to client turnover.
Therefore, it’s crucial to find the right price point that provides value to your clients and ensures long-term retention.
Acquiring Your First Clients for Free
When starting out, the goal is to acquire clients without spending money on paid advertising or courses. One effective strategy is to leverage your personal Facebook profile to reach out to your network.
Make a simple post announcing your new marketing business and ask if anyone knows a real estate agent or any other professional who could benefit from your services.
Additionally, you can use LinkedIn to make a similar post, as it’s a business-focused platform that can help you connect with potential clients.
Engaging with Online Communities
Another key strategy is to join Facebook and LinkedIn groups that cater to your target industry.
Participate in discussions, add value to conversations, and occasionally share valuable content that showcases your expertise.
This will help you build credibility and attract clients who are actively seeking marketing assistance.
Utilizing Google for Client Prospecting
Google is a powerful tool for finding potential clients. Search for businesses in your target industry and location, and pay attention to those that are already investing in ads.
These businesses are likely to understand the value of marketing and may be more receptive to your services.
Additionally, you can analyze their Google My Business listings to identify opportunities for improvement, such as a better-designed website or more effective online presence.
Networking and Community Involvement
Joining local networking groups like BNI or attending meetups can also be a great way to meet business owners who might need your services.
Face-to-face interactions can lead to strong relationships and potential client referrals.
Leveraging YouTube for Lead Generation
YouTube is an excellent platform for generating leads.
Create content that addresses specific needs within your target industry, such as “how to generate real estate leads.” By providing valuable information and showing your expertise, you can attract viewers who are likely to be interested in your services.
Remember to share detailed strategies and be transparent about your methods, as this will build trust with your audience.
Client Fulfillment and Service Offerings
Once you’ve acquired clients, it’s essential to deliver results to ensure they continue to work with you. Utilize software solutions that require minimal marketing expertise but offer significant value to your clients.
For example, you can offer services like automated missed call text back, conversation AI for instant customer responses, and a unified inbox to manage all customer communications.
These tools can be easily set up and managed, providing ongoing value to your clients and helping you maintain a profitable agency.
Building a Sustainable Digital Marketing Agency
Starting a digital marketing agency with no experience is not only possible but can be highly profitable if approached correctly.
By focusing on client acquisition through free channels, engaging with your network, and offering valuable services that rely on software rather than your own marketing expertise, you can build a sustainable business.
Remember to provide exceptional service, maintain transparent communication with your clients, and continuously seek ways to add value to their businesses.
With dedication and the right strategies, you can reach your goal of $0 to $10k per month in just 90 days.