Shows
Agency Leadership PodcastFiring underperforming team members
In this episode, Chip and Gini tackle the difficult subject of firing an underperforming and problematic employee. They discuss a real-life scenario where an employee with a bad attitude refuses to do their work, causing frustration among team members.
They advise against prolonging the inevitable firing decision, suggesting that acting swiftly can alleviate overall team stress. Both hosts share insights on why Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs) are largely ineffective, stressing the need for proper documentation and the guidance of an HR advisor during termination processes.
Additionally, they highlight the importance of showing proactive steps to...
2025-11-1315 min
Agency Leadership PodcastAre you ghosting your own agency?
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss a Reddit post about an agency leader going MIA and the repercussions for the team. They elaborate on the importance of communication, perception, and flexibility for agency owners.
The conversation includes personal anecdotes from both hosts, highlighting the need for frequent touchpoints, setting clear expectations, and maintaining a balance between taking personal time and being present for the team. They also stress the significance of transparency during challenging times and the benefits of empowering employees to reduce bottlenecks.
Key takeaways
Gini Dietrich: “As an owner, I think th...
2025-10-2321 minAgency Leadership PodcastAre you ghosting your own agency?
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss a Reddit post about an agency leader going MIA and the repercussions for the team. They elaborate on the importance of communication, perception, and flexibility for agency owners.
The conversation includes personal anecdotes from both hosts, highlighting the need for frequent touchpoints, setting clear expectations, and maintaining a balance between taking personal time and being present for the team. They also stress the significance of transparency during challenging times and the benefits of empowering employees to reduce bottlenecks.
Key takeaways
Gini Dietrich: “As an owner, I think th...
2025-10-2321 minAgency Leadership PodcastSetting client expectations in the AI era
In this episode, Chip and Gini explore the impact of AI on client expectations. They discuss how AI is perceived to speed up work, leading clients to have unrealistic expectations regarding turnaround times and pricing.
The duo emphasizes the need for agencies to set realistic boundaries and manage expectations from the outset. They share stories about AI’s inconsistency, particularly in generating imagery and written content, and stress the importance of educating clients on the limitations and potential of AI.
Ultimately, they advocate for leveraging AI’s efficiencies while maintaining transparency and setting clear guidelines with...
2025-08-0719 minAgency Leadership PodcastSetting client expectations in the AI era
In this episode, Chip and Gini explore the impact of AI on client expectations. They discuss how AI is perceived to speed up work, leading clients to have unrealistic expectations regarding turnaround times and pricing.
The duo emphasizes the need for agencies to set realistic boundaries and manage expectations from the outset. They share stories about AI’s inconsistency, particularly in generating imagery and written content, and stress the importance of educating clients on the limitations and potential of AI.
Ultimately, they advocate for leveraging AI’s efficiencies while maintaining transparency and setting clear guidelines with...
2025-08-0719 minAgency Leadership PodcastYou don’t need to be a visionary, but it helps to have a vision for your agency
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of having a clear vision for where an agency is headed while also acknowledging the need for strong operational skills.
They explore different types of agency owners, from visionaries to those who excel in operational management, and emphasize the necessity of balancing these roles within a team. The duo highlights the importance of complementing one’s weaknesses by hiring the right people, whether it involves bringing in operational expertise or visionary ideas. They also share personal anecdotes and practical advice on maintaining this balance for the long-term success of...
2025-07-1718 minAgency Leadership PodcastYou don’t need to be a visionary, but it helps to have a vision for your agency
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of having a clear vision for where an agency is headed while also acknowledging the need for strong operational skills.
They explore different types of agency owners, from visionaries to those who excel in operational management, and emphasize the necessity of balancing these roles within a team. The duo highlights the importance of complementing one’s weaknesses by hiring the right people, whether it involves bringing in operational expertise or visionary ideas. They also share personal anecdotes and practical advice on maintaining this balance for the long-term success of...
2025-07-1718 minAgency Leadership PodcastTurning employee departures into opportunities
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss how agency owners should handle situations when an employee resigns.
They explore the emotional reactions owners might have, the importance of maintaining professionalism, and the need to gather more information from the departing employee. They emphasize the value of a cooling-off period to devise a rational plan and the potential for restructuring the team.
Chip and Gini also talk about seeking feedback from remaining team members to ensure a smooth transition and mitigate the risk of more employees leaving. They stress seeing an employee’s resignation as an op...
2025-06-1919 minAgency Leadership PodcastTurning employee departures into opportunities
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss how agency owners should handle situations when an employee resigns.
They explore the emotional reactions owners might have, the importance of maintaining professionalism, and the need to gather more information from the departing employee. They emphasize the value of a cooling-off period to devise a rational plan and the potential for restructuring the team.
Chip and Gini also talk about seeking feedback from remaining team members to ensure a smooth transition and mitigate the risk of more employees leaving. They stress seeing an employee’s resignation as an op...
2025-06-1919 minAgency Leadership PodcastEnsuring AI is an asset — not a liability — for your agency
In this episode, Chip and Gini highlight the challenges and potential pitfalls of over-relying on AI for content creation in PR and marketing.
They discuss instances of AI-generated content gone wrong, such as the fake book list published by the Chicago Sun-Times and poorly crafted AI-generated pitches. The hosts emphasize the importance of human oversight, individuality, and storytelling in maintaining quality and building relationships with the audience. They also delve into Google’s EEAT guidelines and how PR professionals can leverage their expertise to stand out in search rankings.
Finally, they discuss practical ways to ef...
2025-06-1219 minAgency Leadership PodcastWhy agencies get brought in too late by clients — and what to do about it
In this episode, Chip and Gini delve into the challenge of agencies being brought in late on client projects. They discuss the common scenario where clients give last-minute requests and share strategies for becoming part of the planning process earlier.
Key recommendations include integrating into internal communications, attending more meetings, and maintaining a mindset of curiosity to stay updated. They also cover how to handle situations when timely inclusion isn’t possible, such as negotiating new timelines or additional costs for urgent work.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of proactive client communication to prevent unrealistic ex...
2025-06-0518 minAgency Leadership PodcastWhy agencies get brought in too late by clients — and what to do about it
In this episode, Chip and Gini delve into the challenge of agencies being brought in late on client projects. They discuss the common scenario where clients give last-minute requests and share strategies for becoming part of the planning process earlier.
Key recommendations include integrating into internal communications, attending more meetings, and maintaining a mindset of curiosity to stay updated. They also cover how to handle situations when timely inclusion isn’t possible, such as negotiating new timelines or additional costs for urgent work.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of proactive client communication to prevent unrealistic ex...
2025-06-0518 minAgency Leadership PodcastCan agency team members be more strategic?
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss whether or not employees can be encouraged to be “more strategic”. They explore the definition of being strategic, frequently misunderstood expectations, and the challenges of fostering strategic thinking among team members. Gini shares her personal experiences and frustrations from her early career, emphasizing the importance of proper coaching and mentoring.
Chip and Gini conclude that agency owners should define their expectations clearly, consider the individual capabilities of their employees, and re-evaluate their own workload to potentially take on more strategic responsibilities themselves.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “Anytime you’re...
2025-05-1518 minAgency Leadership PodcastPricing psychology for agency clients
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the psychology of pricing within agencies. They cover topics such as the importance of being confident in your pricing, avoiding negotiating against oneself, and the benefits of premium pricing.
Gini highlights her experiences with male and female negotiators, emphasizing how women often undervalue themselves. The duo debates the effectiveness of the ‘three pricing options’ strategy and its pitfalls. They also offer practical advice for owners to ensure their pricing sends the right message to clients and reflects the true value of their services.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “If you...
2025-05-0121 minAgency Leadership PodcastIdentifying and managing agency owner burnout
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the prevalent issue of burnout among agency owners. They explore the different types of burnout, including cyclical and long-term burnout, and offer strategies to identify, cope with, and prevent it.
Key recommendations include taking regular breaks, understanding personal energy drains and boosts, and adjusting work habits accordingly. They emphasize the importance of self-care, realistic time management, and the necessity to avoid making major decisions while burned out. Chip and Gini also share personal experiences and practical tips to help agency owners manage their workload more effectively.
Key takeaways
2025-04-2419 minAgency Leadership PodcastIdentifying and managing agency owner burnout
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the prevalent issue of burnout among agency owners. They explore the different types of burnout, including cyclical and long-term burnout, and offer strategies to identify, cope with, and prevent it.
Key recommendations include taking regular breaks, understanding personal energy drains and boosts, and adjusting work habits accordingly. They emphasize the importance of self-care, realistic time management, and the necessity to avoid making major decisions while burned out. Chip and Gini also share personal experiences and practical tips to help agency owners manage their workload more effectively.
Key takeaways
2025-04-2419 minAgency Leadership PodcastManaging remote workers without micromanaging
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the ongoing challenge of managing remote workers in the PR and marketing agency world.
Five years after most agencies leaned in to remote or hybrid work models, many owners and managers continue to struggle with finding the right approach to managing employees that they don’t see in person every day.
Chip and Gini address misconceptions about remote work, emphasize the importance of clear communication and trust, and highlight the need for detailed expectations and accountability. They advocate for flexibility and open dialogue between employers and employees.
...
2025-03-0622 minAgency Leadership PodcastManaging remote workers without micromanaging
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the ongoing challenge of managing remote workers in the PR and marketing agency world.
Five years after most agencies leaned in to remote or hybrid work models, many owners and managers continue to struggle with finding the right approach to managing employees that they don’t see in person every day.
Chip and Gini address misconceptions about remote work, emphasize the importance of clear communication and trust, and highlight the need for detailed expectations and accountability. They advocate for flexibility and open dialogue between employers and employees.
...
2025-03-0622 minAgency Leadership PodcastWhat freelancers should know before they become agency owners
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the transition from being a freelancer to an agency owner. They delve into the common fears and challenges associated with hiring employees and emphasize the importance of having structured processes and systems.
The episode also explores topics such as the strategic direction of a business, handling pricing models, and the significance of building a team that you trust if your goal is to eventually sell the agency. Chip and Gini highlight the need to evolve business plans based on life phases and market demands, enabling freelancers to effectively scale their...
2025-02-2016 minAgency Leadership PodcastWhat freelancers should know before they become agency owners
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the transition from being a freelancer to an agency owner. They delve into the common fears and challenges associated with hiring employees and emphasize the importance of having structured processes and systems.
The episode also explores topics such as the strategic direction of a business, handling pricing models, and the significance of building a team that you trust if your goal is to eventually sell the agency. Chip and Gini highlight the need to evolve business plans based on life phases and market demands, enabling freelancers to effectively scale their...
2025-02-2016 minAgency Leadership PodcastHow to get your team the mentorship they need
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of mentorship for small agency employees. They explore various approaches including informal and formal mentorships, organic development of mentor-mentee relationships, and bringing in external consultants for mentorship.
Gini shares her personal experiences, highlighting the challenges of forced mentorship and the benefits of organically developed relationships.
The hosts emphasize the need for managers to support and mentor their employees, leveraging both internal and external resources, and the value of making time to mentor individuals outside one’s own organization.
Key takeaways
Gini Dietrich: “Keep in m...
2025-02-1319 minAgency Leadership PodcastHow to get your team the mentorship they need
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of mentorship for small agency employees. They explore various approaches including informal and formal mentorships, organic development of mentor-mentee relationships, and bringing in external consultants for mentorship.
Gini shares her personal experiences, highlighting the challenges of forced mentorship and the benefits of organically developed relationships.
The hosts emphasize the need for managers to support and mentor their employees, leveraging both internal and external resources, and the value of making time to mentor individuals outside one’s own organization.
Key takeaways
Gini Dietrich: “Keep in m...
2025-02-1319 minAgency Leadership PodcastThe value of getting satisfaction from client work
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of satisfaction from the work you do for clients, both for agency owners and their teams.
They explore how satisfaction can drive motivation, the significance of setting boundaries with clients, and the need for purpose in work. The conversation emphasizes the balance between achieving satisfaction and pursuing business growth, as well as the evolving nature of what satisfaction means over time.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “Pay attention to red flags, otherwise you will have short term revenue gains, but long term structural problems for your bu...
2025-01-3019 minAgency Leadership PodcastThe value of getting satisfaction from client work
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of satisfaction from the work you do for clients, both for agency owners and their teams.
They explore how satisfaction can drive motivation, the significance of setting boundaries with clients, and the need for purpose in work. The conversation emphasizes the balance between achieving satisfaction and pursuing business growth, as well as the evolving nature of what satisfaction means over time.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “Pay attention to red flags, otherwise you will have short term revenue gains, but long term structural problems for your bu...
2025-01-3019 minAgency Leadership PodcastShould your small agency be subcontracting for larger agencies?
In this episode, Chip and Gini dive into the topic of agencies doing subcontracted work for other agencies.
Both share their personal experiences of starting and growing their businesses through such work. They discuss the advantages, such as faster decision-making processes and the opportunity to work with big clients without direct procurement hassles.
However, they also highlight significant risks like delayed payments, the potential for relationship conflicts, and the importance of clear contractual agreements. The hosts stress the need for transparency, proper onboarding processes, and clear communication channels to mitigate these challenges.
Key...
2025-01-1620 minAgency Leadership PodcastShould your small agency be subcontracting for larger agencies?
In this episode, Chip and Gini dive into the topic of agencies doing subcontracted work for other agencies.
Both share their personal experiences of starting and growing their businesses through such work. They discuss the advantages, such as faster decision-making processes and the opportunity to work with big clients without direct procurement hassles.
However, they also highlight significant risks like delayed payments, the potential for relationship conflicts, and the importance of clear contractual agreements. The hosts stress the need for transparency, proper onboarding processes, and clear communication channels to mitigate these challenges.
Key...
2025-01-1620 minAgency Leadership PodcastMastering client staffing for small agency success
In this episode, Chip and Gini tackle the challenges of staffing, particularly in response to landing a large contract.
They discuss a Reddit user’s question about managing a $2 million account and emphasize the importance of involving key team members throughout the business development process, rather than afterward.
The hosts advocate for a tiered approach to staffing, employing a mix of high, medium, and low experience levels, and leveraging contractors to manage workload peaks. They also highlight the risks of rapid, large-scale hiring and suggest regular networking and preemptive interviewing to maintain a robust pipeline of...
2025-01-0920 minAgency Leadership PodcastMastering client staffing for small agency success
In this episode, Chip and Gini tackle the challenges of staffing, particularly in response to landing a large contract.
They discuss a Reddit user’s question about managing a $2 million account and emphasize the importance of involving key team members throughout the business development process, rather than afterward.
The hosts advocate for a tiered approach to staffing, employing a mix of high, medium, and low experience levels, and leveraging contractors to manage workload peaks. They also highlight the risks of rapid, large-scale hiring and suggest regular networking and preemptive interviewing to maintain a robust pipeline of...
2025-01-0920 minAgency Leadership PodcastShould your agency charge new clients a startup fee?
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the complexities of pricing strategies for agency engagements.
They explore whether agencies should charge more upfront for initial work, the importance of consistent revenue, and creative approaches to managing client expectations and financials.
The conversation emphasizes understanding client perceptions and the necessity of knowing one’s financials to ensure profitability.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “Certainly think about those upfront costs, but I would try to amortize it over the course of the engagement. I think that’s a much better approach for ultimately winning the busine...
2024-12-0518 minAgency Leadership PodcastStrengthening your PR agency’s role in business decisions
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss PR professionals wanting a seat at the table when it comes to business decision-making.
They explore the need for PR professionals to build relationships across departments, understand business dynamics, and communicate openly with other stakeholders.
The conversation emphasizes the value of collaboration, learning from each other, and navigating interdepartmental challenges to drive business growth and improve client relationships.
Key takeaways
Gini Dietrich: “You should have relationships with people from different departments, and you should not bristle when they want to give you input on things be...
2024-11-2118 minAgency Leadership PodcastStrengthening your PR agency’s role in business decisions
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss PR professionals wanting a seat at the table when it comes to business decision-making.
They explore the need for PR professionals to build relationships across departments, understand business dynamics, and communicate openly with other stakeholders.
The conversation emphasizes the value of collaboration, learning from each other, and navigating interdepartmental challenges to drive business growth and improve client relationships.
Key takeaways
Gini Dietrich: “You should have relationships with people from different departments, and you should not bristle when they want to give you input on things be...
2024-11-2118 minAgency Leadership PodcastWhat to do when clients don’t get your agency what it needs to succeed
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the common challenges agencies face in obtaining timely feedback and necessary information from clients.
They explore strategies for improving communication, managing client expectations, and the importance of having difficult conversations to maintain strong client relationships.
The conversation emphasizes the need for agencies to be proactive in addressing issues and becoming strategic counselors rather than mere order takers.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “The clients never blame themselves or say, ‘we know this fell apart because of us’. They always point the finger of blame at the agency...
2024-11-1422 minAgency Leadership PodcastWhat to do when clients don’t get your agency what it needs to succeed
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the common challenges agencies face in obtaining timely feedback and necessary information from clients.
They explore strategies for improving communication, managing client expectations, and the importance of having difficult conversations to maintain strong client relationships.
The conversation emphasizes the need for agencies to be proactive in addressing issues and becoming strategic counselors rather than mere order takers.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “The clients never blame themselves or say, ‘we know this fell apart because of us’. They always point the finger of blame at the agency...
2024-11-1422 minAgency Leadership PodcastAre you playing with fire as an agency owner?
It’s business as usual in their 250th episode, as Chip and Gini continue to share their unvarnished opinions.
At the risk of this being their last episode, they have once again chosen to tell you what you’re doing wrong as an agency owner.
The hosts share specific examples of agency owners breaking or ignoring rules that they don’t like — or that clients may pressure them to bypass.
They talk about compliance, ethical practices, and risk management for agency owners. They discuss the ramifications of behaviors such as unauthorized account sharing, misclass...
2024-10-2422 minAgency Leadership PodcastAre you playing with fire as an agency owner?
It’s business as usual in their 250th episode, as Chip and Gini continue to share their unvarnished opinions.
At the risk of this being their last episode, they have once again chosen to tell you what you’re doing wrong as an agency owner.
The hosts share specific examples of agency owners breaking or ignoring rules that they don’t like — or that clients may pressure them to bypass.
They talk about compliance, ethical practices, and risk management for agency owners. They discuss the ramifications of behaviors such as unauthorized account sharing, misclass...
2024-10-2422 minAgency Leadership PodcastOnboarding agency clients the right way
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the critical aspects of onboarding new clients in the agency world. They emphasize the importance of setting clear expectations, proactive communication, and understanding client processes.
The conversation includes tips for achieving quick wins without overburdening clients, integrating with client systems, and maintaining a sustainable pace. Both hosts highlight the significance of being adaptable and helpful, ensuring a successful long-term partnership with clients. They also share insights into balancing immediate results with strategic long-term goals.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “Setting clear expectations is fundamentally the absolute most important th...
2024-10-0321 minAgency Leadership PodcastBalancing booze and your agency business
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of having clear alcohol policies in agencies. They explore the evolving norms of alcohol consumption in professional settings, the necessity of having written rules, and the implications for office events, client meetings, and expenses.
Drawing on their experiences and insights from expert Patrick Rogan of Ignition HR, the hosts emphasize the need for leadership to set examples and consider the legal and liability aspects of alcohol use. They suggest practical guidelines for limiting alcohol use to ensure professionalism and reduce risks.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “My...
2024-09-2622 minAgency Leadership PodcastBalancing booze and your agency business
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of having clear alcohol policies in agencies. They explore the evolving norms of alcohol consumption in professional settings, the necessity of having written rules, and the implications for office events, client meetings, and expenses.
Drawing on their experiences and insights from expert Patrick Rogan of Ignition HR, the hosts emphasize the need for leadership to set examples and consider the legal and liability aspects of alcohol use. They suggest practical guidelines for limiting alcohol use to ensure professionalism and reduce risks.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “My...
2024-09-2622 minAgency Leadership PodcastTurning agency reporting into a profit center
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of effective reporting for agencies.
Many agency leaders view reports as a necessary evil, but when done right they can actually become an important contributor to profits.
Chip and Gini recommend auditing existing reports to eliminate unnecessary ones and creating meaningful reports that directly influence business decisions. They also highlight the potential of leveraging AI to analyze and generate reports, ultimately transforming reporting from a mundane task into a profit center.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “I don’t think I’ve ever met an age...
2024-08-2919 minAgency Leadership PodcastTurning agency reporting into a profit center
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of effective reporting for agencies.
Many agency leaders view reports as a necessary evil, but when done right they can actually become an important contributor to profits.
Chip and Gini recommend auditing existing reports to eliminate unnecessary ones and creating meaningful reports that directly influence business decisions. They also highlight the potential of leveraging AI to analyze and generate reports, ultimately transforming reporting from a mundane task into a profit center.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “I don’t think I’ve ever met an age...
2024-08-2919 minAgency Leadership PodcastUsing LinkedIn effectively to grow your agency
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the pros and cons of using LinkedIn for agency growth and professional engagement. They touch upon the challenges of spam and overautomation, and emphasize the importance of personalized, thoughtful interactions.
They also share strategies for repurposing content, such as tailoring blog posts to different audiences when posting on LinkedIn. They address the increased use of LinkedIn direct messages for networking and provide insights on effective commenting. Additionally, they briefly discuss the appropriateness of political posts on LinkedIn and recommend focusing on values rather than partisan views.
Key takeaways
2024-08-1523 minAgency Leadership PodcastShould you start your own agency because your boss is making too much off of your work?
It must be nice to own an agency because then you’re earning the big bucks, right?
Many agency employees complain that clients pay so much more than they are making, so the owner must be reaping a huge profit.
It makes it easy to think that setting out on your own and working for clients directly is the right answer.
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the realities of quitting your job to start your own agency, emphasizing the importance of understanding the costs of owning a business, and how as an...
2024-05-1622 minAgency Leadership PodcastShould you start your own agency because your boss is making too much off of your work?
It must be nice to own an agency because then you’re earning the big bucks, right?
Many agency employees complain that clients pay so much more than they are making, so the owner must be reaping a huge profit.
It makes it easy to think that setting out on your own and working for clients directly is the right answer.
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the realities of quitting your job to start your own agency, emphasizing the importance of understanding the costs of owning a business, and how as an...
2024-05-1622 minAgency Leadership PodcastShould your small agency hire senior-level pros?
Hiring seasoned professionals sounds like it will solve a lot of headaches you have as an agency owner. But will it?
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of balancing senior and junior hires in agencies, highlighting the pros and cons of primarily staffing with senior level talent.
They emphasize the need for clear expectations, relevant experience, and the importance of understanding what each hire truly needs to do before you commit to senior level hires.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “Part of the challenge is because it’s expensive, it mean...
2024-05-0920 minAgency Leadership PodcastWhat new rules on overtime and non-competes mean for agencies
Chip and Gini discuss recent updates from the federal government affecting agency owners, including a ban on non-compete agreements and changes to salary thresholds for overtime exempt employees.
It emphasizes the importance of compliance, working with professional advisors, and making necessary adjustments to HR policies.
Key takeaways
Gini Dietrich: “You can be a good business owner and a good human being without saying, I don’t want you working for anybody that would compete with us in any shape or fashion within a certain mile radius.”
Chip Griffin: “Every agency should be working with an HR ad...
2024-05-0221 minAgency Leadership PodcastShould your agency sell itself as a fractional CxO to clients?
Chip and Gini discuss the intricacies of fractional leadership roles within clients.
They share their experiences and provide advice on managing relationships, setting clear boundaries, handling administrative tasks, and positioning yourself accurately in these roles.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “Fractional roles tend to work best when there’s a fractional amount of work to be done.”
Gini Dietrich: “If there’s more than one decision maker, you have to ensure that all decision makers are on board with whatever you’ve negotiated in your contract.”
Chip Griffin: “You get some of the best aspects of being an empl...
2024-04-0421 minAgency Leadership PodcastShould your agency sell itself as a fractional CxO to clients?
Chip and Gini discuss the intricacies of fractional leadership roles within clients.
They share their experiences and provide advice on managing relationships, setting clear boundaries, handling administrative tasks, and positioning yourself accurately in these roles.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “Fractional roles tend to work best when there’s a fractional amount of work to be done.”
Gini Dietrich: “If there’s more than one decision maker, you have to ensure that all decision makers are on board with whatever you’ve negotiated in your contract.”
Chip Griffin: “You get some of the best aspects of being an empl...
2024-04-0421 minAgency Leadership PodcastAccepting equity as payment for agency services
Start-up clients may not have the funds to pay you, but still need service, so why not consider receiving equity as payment?
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the potential pitfalls of that approach. They caution against exotic payment schemes such as equity or pay for performance, emphasizing the risks and complexities involved.
They also highlight the importance of legal and tax considerations when entering into equity deals.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “There is often a real desire for people with businesses that don’t have a lot of money to try...
2024-03-2117 minAgency Leadership PodcastAccepting equity as payment for agency services
Start-up clients may not have the funds to pay you, but still need service, so why not consider receiving equity as payment?
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the potential pitfalls of that approach. They caution against exotic payment schemes such as equity or pay for performance, emphasizing the risks and complexities involved.
They also highlight the importance of legal and tax considerations when entering into equity deals.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “There is often a real desire for people with businesses that don’t have a lot of money to try...
2024-03-2117 minAgency Leadership PodcastGet over your fear of hiring employees
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the fear of hiring employees, the implications of using contractors, the financial considerations, and the benefits of having employees.
They emphasize the need to align hiring decisions with long-term business goals and not to be afraid of hiring employees when it makes sense financially.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “You’re an owner. You act like an owner. An employee acts like an employee. A contractor acts like a contractor. They are distinct and different things. And you need to understand that and accept that if you’re going...
2024-03-1423 minAgency Leadership PodcastGet over your fear of hiring employees
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the fear of hiring employees, the implications of using contractors, the financial considerations, and the benefits of having employees.
They emphasize the need to align hiring decisions with long-term business goals and not to be afraid of hiring employees when it makes sense financially.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “You’re an owner. You act like an owner. An employee acts like an employee. A contractor acts like a contractor. They are distinct and different things. And you need to understand that and accept that if you’re going...
2024-03-1423 minAgency Leadership PodcastHandling frustration as an agency owner
Employee complaints? Accountable only to yourself? Trying to create a work culture? Welcome to agency ownership!
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the challenges and frustrations of owning an agency, emphasizing the importance of seeking accountability and support, and reflecting on one’s own role in addressing issues.
The discussion also includes reflections on past experiences and lessons learned, as they share insights for agency owners to effectively navigate their responsibilities and address issues in a constructive manner.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “Instead of seeking to assign blame to somebody else, ask...
2024-03-0719 minAgency Leadership PodcastHandling frustration as an agency owner
Employee complaints? Accountable only to yourself? Trying to create a work culture? Welcome to agency ownership!
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the challenges and frustrations of owning an agency, emphasizing the importance of seeking accountability and support, and reflecting on one’s own role in addressing issues.
The discussion also includes reflections on past experiences and lessons learned, as they share insights for agency owners to effectively navigate their responsibilities and address issues in a constructive manner.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “Instead of seeking to assign blame to somebody else, ask...
2024-03-0719 minAgency Leadership PodcastHow to handle extended payment term requests from agency clients
How do you deal with clients who ask for different payment terms than the ones your agency offers?
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of setting clear expectations from the start and being proactive in following up on overdue invoices. They offer different approaches and creative strategies for handling payment terms with clients.
Key takeaways
Gini Dietrich: “You don’t go into a restaurant and order dinner, have dinner, and then a month later pay for it. That’s just not how it works.”
Chip Griffin: “If you want to be paid on tim...
2024-02-2923 minAgency Leadership PodcastHow to handle extended payment term requests from agency clients
How do you deal with clients who ask for different payment terms than the ones your agency offers?
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of setting clear expectations from the start and being proactive in following up on overdue invoices. They offer different approaches and creative strategies for handling payment terms with clients.
Key takeaways
Gini Dietrich: “You don’t go into a restaurant and order dinner, have dinner, and then a month later pay for it. That’s just not how it works.”
Chip Griffin: “If you want to be paid on tim...
2024-02-2923 minAgency Leadership PodcastAvoiding time-wasting in your agency
Are you and your agency team spending too much time writing proposals, creating capabilities decks, and building brand personas?
It may seem productive, but clients value results – and so should you.
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss how to get your agency’s time under control and offer advice on managing business development and project management to avoid the unnecessary and focus on real value creation.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “When you look at the total number of hours that agencies devote to these kinds of things, it is completely disproportionate to the re...
2024-02-1521 minAgency Leadership PodcastAvoiding time-wasting in your agency
Are you and your agency team spending too much time writing proposals, creating capabilities decks, and building brand personas?
It may seem productive, but clients value results – and so should you.
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss how to get your agency’s time under control and offer advice on managing business development and project management to avoid the unnecessary and focus on real value creation.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “When you look at the total number of hours that agencies devote to these kinds of things, it is completely disproportionate to the re...
2024-02-1521 minAgency Leadership PodcastWhat recent media layoffs mean for PR agencies
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the recent wave of layoffs in the media industry and its implications for PR agencies.
They explore the challenges of securing earned media in a landscape with fewer journalists and offer insights on evolving strategies to effectively reach target audiences through alternative channels.
Emphasizing the importance of setting realistic client expectations and embracing creativity, they highlight the need for agencies to adapt and innovate amidst industry changes.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “You need to understand where your client’s audience exists.”
Gini Dietrich: “How are you goin...
2024-02-0822 minAgency Leadership PodcastWhat recent media layoffs mean for PR agencies
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the recent wave of layoffs in the media industry and its implications for PR agencies.
They explore the challenges of securing earned media in a landscape with fewer journalists and offer insights on evolving strategies to effectively reach target audiences through alternative channels.
Emphasizing the importance of setting realistic client expectations and embracing creativity, they highlight the need for agencies to adapt and innovate amidst industry changes.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “You need to understand where your client’s audience exists.”
Gini Dietrich: “How are you goin...
2024-02-0822 minAgency Leadership PodcastDid your agency have a rough 2023?
A lot of agencies have told Chip and Gini that 2023 was a bad year for them. Fellow agency adviser Karl Sakas posted on LinkedIn that he has been asked if it was bad for everyone.
In this episode, Chip and Gini share their perspectives — along with things that positioned some agencies for success in what many experienced as a down year.
Whether you had a good or bad year, there are lessons to take away to make 2024 and future years more successful.
Key takeaways
Gini Dietrich: “The lesson here is that things are...
2024-02-0122 minAgency Leadership PodcastDid your agency have a rough 2023?
A lot of agencies have told Chip and Gini that 2023 was a bad year for them. Fellow agency adviser Karl Sakas posted on LinkedIn that he has been asked if it was bad for everyone.
In this episode, Chip and Gini share their perspectives — along with things that positioned some agencies for success in what many experienced as a down year.
Whether you had a good or bad year, there are lessons to take away to make 2024 and future years more successful.
Key takeaways
Gini Dietrich: “The lesson here is that things are...
2024-02-0122 minAgency Leadership PodcastAre digital agencies dead?
The Wall Street Journal recently suggested that the era of digital agencies may be over. It’s not that digital services are no longer required, but the label for agencies may no longer make sense.
In this episode, Chip and Gini talk about the need for agencies to find a sustainable focus and be cautious of riding the wave of the latest type of “hot” agency — including digital, social media, cannabis, crypto, and many others that have come and gone.
As digital services become table stakes for most agencies, it is more important than ever when pos...
2024-01-1121 minAgency Leadership PodcastBeware easy-to-sell but hard-to-serve clients for your agency
It’s not uncommon to hear agency owners talk about wanting to target small businesses because there are so many of them and you can talk with the decision-maker more easily.
While it may be an appealing target, there are reasons to be cautious. There’s a good chance that you will be dealing with the owner, which can help lead to a faster sale since they may treat it as an impulse purchase. On the flip side, every penny you get is out of the owner’s pocket so they will be scrutinizing results far more closel...
2024-01-0422 minAgency Leadership PodcastBeware easy-to-sell but hard-to-serve clients for your agency
It’s not uncommon to hear agency owners talk about wanting to target small businesses because there are so many of them and you can talk with the decision-maker more easily.
While it may be an appealing target, there are reasons to be cautious. There’s a good chance that you will be dealing with the owner, which can help lead to a faster sale since they may treat it as an impulse purchase. On the flip side, every penny you get is out of the owner’s pocket so they will be scrutinizing results far more closel...
2024-01-0422 minAgency Leadership PodcastSmall agencies should beware the big brands
It seems so alluring to be able to put a Fortune 500 logo on your agency’s website. Many of us dream of the creative things that we can do for these household names.
Yet often these big brands end up being bad deals for small agencies. They are time-consuming to sell, difficult to service, and often subject to onerous contractual terms.
In this episode, Chip and Gini take a look at the appeal presented by these opportunities, along with the risk that they present.
Key takeaways
Gini Dietrich: “You would think that big...
2023-12-1419 minAgency Leadership PodcastSmall agencies should beware the big brands
It seems so alluring to be able to put a Fortune 500 logo on your agency’s website. Many of us dream of the creative things that we can do for these household names.
Yet often these big brands end up being bad deals for small agencies. They are time-consuming to sell, difficult to service, and often subject to onerous contractual terms.
In this episode, Chip and Gini take a look at the appeal presented by these opportunities, along with the risk that they present.
Key takeaways
Gini Dietrich: “You would think that big...
2023-12-1419 minAgency Leadership PodcastHow to motivate your agency’s freelancers
In this episode, Chip and Gini take a question from the SAGA Community on Slack about ways to motivate freelancers just as you do with employees.
The reality is that freelancers and employees aren’t the same and contractors should treat your agency as a client and produce excellent results — just the same way you do for your own clients.
The real question ought to be how to engage freelancers more effectively, and that comes down to clear communication. As long as both parties understand the relationship and expectations are well-established, both agency and freelancer shou...
2023-12-0717 minAgency Leadership PodcastHow to motivate your agency’s freelancers
In this episode, Chip and Gini take a question from the SAGA Community on Slack about ways to motivate freelancers just as you do with employees.
The reality is that freelancers and employees aren’t the same and contractors should treat your agency as a client and produce excellent results — just the same way you do for your own clients.
The real question ought to be how to engage freelancers more effectively, and that comes down to clear communication. As long as both parties understand the relationship and expectations are well-established, both agency and freelancer shou...
2023-12-0717 minAgency Leadership PodcastThe value of outside perspective to agency owners
It’s easy for all of us to get stuck inside our own heads. Having someone we trust who can help to provide some independent insight and challenge our own beliefs can be very helpful.
In this episode, Chip and Gini talk about why it is important for agency owners to have someone outside of the business — a mentor, consultant, coach, friend, or even another agency owner — who can help to play that role.
In addition to getting a different opinion and perspective, that individual can help hold you accountable. After all, who wants to report...
2023-11-3021 minAgency Leadership PodcastThe value of outside perspective to agency owners
It’s easy for all of us to get stuck inside our own heads. Having someone we trust who can help to provide some independent insight and challenge our own beliefs can be very helpful.
In this episode, Chip and Gini talk about why it is important for agency owners to have someone outside of the business — a mentor, consultant, coach, friend, or even another agency owner — who can help to play that role.
In addition to getting a different opinion and perspective, that individual can help hold you accountable. After all, who wants to report...
2023-11-3021 minAgency Leadership PodcastHidden overservicing by agency employees
If you’re anything like Chip and Gini, you have discovered employees doing work for clients that is outside of the scope of work you have agreed to.
There are many reasons for this behavior and this episode explores those as well as potential solutions.
Whether your team just wants to make clients happy, enjoys doing some work more than others, or simply isn’t aware of the actual scope of work for a project, you will get some practical tips on what to do — as well as a bit of reassurance that you aren’t alone...
2023-11-1624 minAgency Leadership PodcastHidden overservicing by agency employees
If you’re anything like Chip and Gini, you have discovered employees doing work for clients that is outside of the scope of work you have agreed to.
There are many reasons for this behavior and this episode explores those as well as potential solutions.
Whether your team just wants to make clients happy, enjoys doing some work more than others, or simply isn’t aware of the actual scope of work for a project, you will get some practical tips on what to do — as well as a bit of reassurance that you aren’t alone...
2023-11-1624 minAgency Leadership PodcastWhat to do when your agency needs new revenue NOW
Most small agencies at some point experience the sinking feeling of losing a whale client or seeing a sudden sharp reduction in revenue.
When you get that kind of news, what do you do?
That’s what Chip and Gini discuss on this week’s episode — especially for agencies that may not have an active pipeline of prospects in place.
Ramping up revenue quickly means focusing on the right things and not wasting time on tactics that will only pay off in the long-term (if ever).
Key takeaways
Gini Dietrich: “Business...
2023-11-0924 minAgency Leadership PodcastWhat to do when your agency needs new revenue NOW
Most small agencies at some point experience the sinking feeling of losing a whale client or seeing a sudden sharp reduction in revenue.
When you get that kind of news, what do you do?
That’s what Chip and Gini discuss on this week’s episode — especially for agencies that may not have an active pipeline of prospects in place.
Ramping up revenue quickly means focusing on the right things and not wasting time on tactics that will only pay off in the long-term (if ever).
Key takeaways
Gini Dietrich: “Business...
2023-11-0924 minAgency Leadership PodcastReal talk about agency websites
Many agencies overvalue their websites and spend too much time thinking about and working on them.
In this episode, Chip and Gini talk about what matters — and what doesn’t — when it comes to your website design and content.
They share some of their experience about the areas in which the most time (and money) get wasted and how to make sure that you get the best ROI possible on your agency’s website.
Key takeaways
Gini Dietrich: “When things are slowing down is not the time to be thinking about generating leads from...
2023-11-0226 minAgency Leadership PodcastReal talk about agency websites
Many agencies overvalue their websites and spend too much time thinking about and working on them.
In this episode, Chip and Gini talk about what matters — and what doesn’t — when it comes to your website design and content.
They share some of their experience about the areas in which the most time (and money) get wasted and how to make sure that you get the best ROI possible on your agency’s website.
Key takeaways
Gini Dietrich: “When things are slowing down is not the time to be thinking about generating leads from...
2023-11-0226 minAgency Leadership PodcastChaos is not a virtue for agencies
Agency leaders need to stop casually discussing the chaotic environment common to so many agencies.
Too often you will hear firm owners and others talk about agencies as hectic and fast-paced environments.
Chip and Gini have had enough of this talk — and they both admit that they, too, used to embrace the idea that it was an unavoidable circumstance for agency life.
Chaos is the sign of a problem that needs to be solved, not an acceptable condition that leaders and their teams should adapt to.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “Chao...
2023-10-2622 minAgency Leadership PodcastChaos is not a virtue for agencies
Agency leaders need to stop casually discussing the chaotic environment common to so many agencies.
Too often you will hear firm owners and others talk about agencies as hectic and fast-paced environments.
Chip and Gini have had enough of this talk — and they both admit that they, too, used to embrace the idea that it was an unavoidable circumstance for agency life.
Chaos is the sign of a problem that needs to be solved, not an acceptable condition that leaders and their teams should adapt to.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “Chao...
2023-10-2622 minAgency Leadership PodcastSetting expectations for agency clients
One of the biggest sources of friction between agencies and clients comes from mismatched expectations.
Too often agency leaders don’t do enough to set realistic expectations during the business development phase of the relationship. It’s exciting to get a deal done so we often allow prospective clients to entertain inflated expectations without correcting them — or to avoid discussion of expectations altogether.
Chip and Gini explain that for healthy, sustainable relationships with clients, agencies must get agreement on shared expectations every step of the way. The agency’s process and timeline should be clearly explaine...
2023-10-0521 minAgency Leadership PodcastSetting expectations for agency clients
One of the biggest sources of friction between agencies and clients comes from mismatched expectations.
Too often agency leaders don’t do enough to set realistic expectations during the business development phase of the relationship. It’s exciting to get a deal done so we often allow prospective clients to entertain inflated expectations without correcting them — or to avoid discussion of expectations altogether.
Chip and Gini explain that for healthy, sustainable relationships with clients, agencies must get agreement on shared expectations every step of the way. The agency’s process and timeline should be clearly explaine...
2023-10-0521 minAgency Leadership PodcastGetting agency-client contracts done right
Chip and Gini understand the excitement of closing a deal and the desire that agencies have to just get started with the creative process.
But it’s important to get the contracting process done right, including setting the best terms and having a signature before any work gets going.
In this episode, Chip and Gini talk about some of the common mistakes that they have seen agency owners make with contracts and how to go about it in the best way.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “You have to harness that excitement at the...
2023-09-2123 minAgency Leadership PodcastGetting agency-client contracts done right
Chip and Gini understand the excitement of closing a deal and the desire that agencies have to just get started with the creative process.
But it’s important to get the contracting process done right, including setting the best terms and having a signature before any work gets going.
In this episode, Chip and Gini talk about some of the common mistakes that they have seen agency owners make with contracts and how to go about it in the best way.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “You have to harness that excitement at the...
2023-09-2123 minAgency Leadership PodcastThe aftermath of firing agency employees for cause
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss when you should (and shouldn’t) terminate an employee for cause.
They explain the perils of allowing emotion to impact termination decisions and how you should approach these difficult circumstances.
When an employee is terminated for cause, it can also cause agency leaders to wonder if they can trust others, so Chip and Gini explore the ramifications of that fear.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “Fundamentally dishonest people are going to be dishonest. So you can only protect yourself so much.”
Gini Dietrich: “You can do your due...
2023-09-1423 minAgency Leadership PodcastThe aftermath of firing agency employees for cause
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss when you should (and shouldn’t) terminate an employee for cause.
They explain the perils of allowing emotion to impact termination decisions and how you should approach these difficult circumstances.
When an employee is terminated for cause, it can also cause agency leaders to wonder if they can trust others, so Chip and Gini explore the ramifications of that fear.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “Fundamentally dishonest people are going to be dishonest. So you can only protect yourself so much.”
Gini Dietrich: “You can do your due...
2023-09-1423 minAgency Leadership PodcastThe value of employee exit interviews for agencies
All agencies experience turnover, so it makes sense to have a process for when employees leave. The exit interview is an important part of that sequence.
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss best practices for conducting effective exit interviews, including who should run them and what they should include.
The co-hosts also offer advice on the importance of ongoing employee communication to avoid surprises in the exit interviews that could have been avoided.
Key takeaways
Gini Dietrich: “Most people leave managers, they don’t leave companies.”
Chip Griffin: “If you are the one...
2023-09-0722 minAgency Leadership PodcastThe value of employee exit interviews for agencies
All agencies experience turnover, so it makes sense to have a process for when employees leave. The exit interview is an important part of that sequence.
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss best practices for conducting effective exit interviews, including who should run them and what they should include.
The co-hosts also offer advice on the importance of ongoing employee communication to avoid surprises in the exit interviews that could have been avoided.
Key takeaways
Gini Dietrich: “Most people leave managers, they don’t leave companies.”
Chip Griffin: “If you are the one...
2023-09-0722 minAgency Leadership PodcastLet’s talk about bad agency pitches
Chip and Gini are tired of all of the bad pitches from agencies that they find in their inboxes. They simply can’t take any more.
In this episode, they examine some of the really poor sales emails and pitches to have guests on their podcasts that they have seen lately.
It’s time for agencies to knock it off and put more thought into how they pitch themselves and their clients.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “It’s not a numbers game, it’s a relationships game. And so you need to think abou...
2023-08-3121 minAgency Leadership PodcastLet’s talk about bad agency pitches
Chip and Gini are tired of all of the bad pitches from agencies that they find in their inboxes. They simply can’t take any more.
In this episode, they examine some of the really poor sales emails and pitches to have guests on their podcasts that they have seen lately.
It’s time for agencies to knock it off and put more thought into how they pitch themselves and their clients.
Key takeaways
Chip Griffin: “It’s not a numbers game, it’s a relationships game. And so you need to think abou...
2023-08-3121 minAgency Leadership PodcastAre you trying to hire unicorns for your agency?
Agency owners tend to be good at a little bit of everything — that’s typically how they ended up as owners in the first place. They’re used to rolling up their sleeves and digging into client work, business development, management, and just about anything else that’s needed.
As they staff up their teams, they often look for people who can check several boxes at once. Part of it is because that’s what they do, and part of it is because that’s what they need.
Most small agencies don’t have the budget — or ne...
2023-08-0318 minAgency Leadership PodcastAre you trying to hire unicorns for your agency?
Agency owners tend to be good at a little bit of everything — that’s typically how they ended up as owners in the first place. They’re used to rolling up their sleeves and digging into client work, business development, management, and just about anything else that’s needed.
As they staff up their teams, they often look for people who can check several boxes at once. Part of it is because that’s what they do, and part of it is because that’s what they need.
Most small agencies don’t have the budget — or ne...
2023-08-0318 minAgency Leadership PodcastStop asking what you can delegate as an agency owner
Agency owners ask Chip and Gini all the time how they can figure out what to delegate — and how to do it — to free up time in their days.
In this episode, they talk about why agency owners should change their mindset to assume they will delegate anything that comes across their desks — then only keep it for themselves if they can’t find any viable alternative.
It’s a subtle but important shift in thinking that can help you get more time to work on your business or even simply get some more rest.
Ke...
2023-07-2721 minAgency Leadership PodcastStop asking what you can delegate as an agency owner
Agency owners ask Chip and Gini all the time how they can figure out what to delegate — and how to do it — to free up time in their days.
In this episode, they talk about why agency owners should change their mindset to assume they will delegate anything that comes across their desks — then only keep it for themselves if they can’t find any viable alternative.
It’s a subtle but important shift in thinking that can help you get more time to work on your business or even simply get some more rest.
Ke...
2023-07-2721 minAgency Leadership PodcastBe smart about titles at your agency
Have you ever given serious thought to the structure of the titles at your agency? Or have you dealt with them simply as one-off decisions with individual employees?
In this episode, Chip and Gini explore how — and why — you should be more thoughtful about how you hand out titles to employees. More important, they discuss how a mindful approach to titles can help you to retain your best employees.
Of course, there’s also discussion around the problems that come from title inflation that can be quite common in small agencies.
Key takeaways
C...
2023-07-2019 minAgency Leadership PodcastBe smart about titles at your agency
Have you ever given serious thought to the structure of the titles at your agency? Or have you dealt with them simply as one-off decisions with individual employees?
In this episode, Chip and Gini explore how — and why — you should be more thoughtful about how you hand out titles to employees. More important, they discuss how a mindful approach to titles can help you to retain your best employees.
Of course, there’s also discussion around the problems that come from title inflation that can be quite common in small agencies.
Key takeaways
C...
2023-07-2019 minAgency Leadership PodcastAre client satisfaction surveys worthwhile for agencies?
Does your agency regularly survey your clients to see how happy they are with the services that they are receiving and how likely they are to recommend you to someone else?
Is it even worth doing these surveys? That’s the question that Chip and Gini explore in this week’s episode.
Spoiler alert: they’re not big fans of formal surveys, so they offer some alternative approaches. For those who still insist on sending questions to clients, they do have some practical advice on how to make the approach more effective.
Key takeaw...
2023-06-2218 minAgency Leadership PodcastAre client satisfaction surveys worthwhile for agencies?
Does your agency regularly survey your clients to see how happy they are with the services that they are receiving and how likely they are to recommend you to someone else?
Is it even worth doing these surveys? That’s the question that Chip and Gini explore in this week’s episode.
Spoiler alert: they’re not big fans of formal surveys, so they offer some alternative approaches. For those who still insist on sending questions to clients, they do have some practical advice on how to make the approach more effective.
Key takeaw...
2023-06-2218 minAgency Leadership PodcastBe more collaborative and less transactional with your agency’s clients
Too many agencies focus on reporting the amount of time and effort that they put in on behalf of clients rather than talking about the strategy and the results it produces.
When agencies tell a client how many hours were spent on work that is not billed by the hour, it serves little or no purpose. If you talk about how many reporters you pitched rather than the number of stories you generated, you are missing the point.
In this episode, Chip and Gini talk about the perils of transactional relationships with your agency’s cl...
2023-06-1520 minAgency Leadership PodcastBe more collaborative and less transactional with your agency’s clients
Too many agencies focus on reporting the amount of time and effort that they put in on behalf of clients rather than talking about the strategy and the results it produces.
When agencies tell a client how many hours were spent on work that is not billed by the hour, it serves little or no purpose. If you talk about how many reporters you pitched rather than the number of stories you generated, you are missing the point.
In this episode, Chip and Gini talk about the perils of transactional relationships with your agency’s cl...
2023-06-1520 min