Like ballroom dancing and bridge, in order to be successful in marketing you need to learn how to work with your partner.

In over 20 years of experience we’ve dealt with all kinds of clients, and we’ve noticed some habits that result in the most productive relationships.  Here are 6 ways to get more out of your marketing partner!

6. Tell us what you want

Like most things in business communication is key. It sounds too simple but just telling us what you want right off the bat can make a world of difference.

Focus on being direct and open with your marketing partner. Explain exactly what you have in mind. The sooner we understand the whole picture of what you’re trying to do the sooner we can get to work on it!

5. Share your budget

Firms aren’t going to rip you off if you share your budget with them. (If you think you’re getting ripped off, it’s probably time to find a new partner anyway).

Don’t be afraid to show your hand and let your partner know exactly what limitations they have. When both parties have the same information, things can progress more quickly then if you leave your marketing partner in the dark.

4. Use the right communication tool

In today’s world there are so many ways to get a hold of someone deciding how to do it can be overwhelming!

Here’s a quick rule of thumb for picking the best method of communication. 

Phone: For when you need to talk things through. Maybe you need to discuss a concept you’re unsure of or simply need more consulting.

Email: For detailed items and things you need to keep a paper trail for.

3. Remember the golden rule

Treat your marketing partner the way you would want to be treated.

Sometimes it’s best to  try and see things from the other guys point of view.  Remember that your project probably isn’t the only one they’ve got on their plate.  We all have bad days. Just remember that your marketing partner will make mistakes and not be perfect 100% of the time, just like you!

2. Let us have an opinion

Why did you hire a marketing firm in the first place?Take advantage of our expertise and experience by listening to our opinion. That doesn’t mean that we should have the final say in all aspects of a project (see number 6), but remember that we’ve done this before!

1. Go ahead, challenge us

Marketing folks thrive for challenges and don’t mind a tough deadline. If you have a project that seems unreasonable or there isn’t enough time don’t be afraid to bring it up. Your marketing partner might welcome the challenge. But, don’t take fake a hard deadline to get your project prioritized for no reason (see number 3).

Do you need a marketing partner? Connect with us on LinkedIn and learn about our hospitality marketing solutions.