Shows
Agency Leadership PodcastWhat the Agency AI Survey results mean for PR and marketing firms
The SAGA Agency AI Survey results are in, and small agency owners are feeling great about AI. Maybe too great. In this episode, Chip and Gini dig into the numbers and find the gap between how owners think they’re using AI and the reality of what’s happening inside their businesses.
The headline figures look impressive: 89% of respondents report regular or widespread AI use, 74% use it daily, and 88% say they’ve seen productivity gains. But Chip isn’t buying it. He questions whether the sample skews toward early adopters, or more likely, whether agency owners simply don’t ha...
2026-05-2122 minAgency Leadership PodcastStop making sacrifices your agency doesn’t need you to make
Most agency owners think they’re doing their team a favor when they quietly absorb the painful, tedious, or time-consuming work. They’re likely not. In this episode, Chip Griffin and Gini Dietrich look at the sacrifices owners make on behalf of their teams and why those sacrifices often create more problems than they solve.
This isn’t about the occasional tactical sacrifice, it’s about the systemic ones: the conscious decisions to absorb entire categories of work because you’ve decided your team would find them too difficult, too unpleasant, or too much of a burden. Gini admit...
2026-05-0719 minAgency Leadership PodcastPreparing for your agency’s group presentations and pitches
In this episode, Chip and Gini open with the analogy of Canadian doubles, the tennis format where two players face one. If your team outnumbers the prospect, you don’t project strength, you project awkwardness. But the conversation goes well beyond headcount.
A little preparation goes a long way in making sure every seat on your side is justified. You’ll want to match expertise to whoever the prospect brought, which requires actually knowing who’s coming. Gini described a recent pitch where she reverse-engineered her attendee list based entirely on who was showing up from the prospe...
2026-04-3023 minAgency Leadership Podcast300 episodes in: what’s changed, what hasn’t, and what we got wrong
Eight years and 300 episodes later, Chip and Gini take stock of what the Agency Leadership Podcast has actually been about and where their thinking has shifted since they sat down for lunch outside Wrigley Field and decided to start a show.
Chip shares an AI-generated analysis of the 10 most common themes across 300 episodes. Gini distills them into four she considers non-negotiable: communication fixes most problems, know your numbers, focus on particular wins, and the owner sets the temperature. Chip adds that communication doesn’t just solve problems, it prevents them. Ironic, given that probably everyone listening is in...
2026-04-0224 minAgency Leadership PodcastThe PESO Model evolves for the AI era (and why your website isn’t dead)
The PESO Model has been guiding smart communications strategies for over a decade, but the tactical landscape underneath it keeps shifting. In the latest evolution, Gini and her team have completely revamped the PESO Model Certification to address how AI and large language models are fundamentally changing visibility in 2026.
In this episode, Chip interviews Gini about the newly updated certification and what’s changed in how organizations should think about paid, earned, shared, and owned media. The conversation centers on “visibility engineering”—the intersection of owned and earned media where LLMs are scraping information and making decisions about wh...
2026-02-1922 minAgency Leadership PodcastRediscovering your agency’s founding spark
As agency owners settle into 2026, it’s easy to operate on autopilot—chasing the next tactic without reconnecting with what made the business work in the first place. In this episode, Chip and Gini make the case for looking backward before charging forward.
Chip admits his first agency started because “consultant” sounded better than “unemployed.” But the real question isn’t just why you started—it’s why you decided to keep building. That motivation should be informing your strategy today.
Gini shares how she once believed she wanted a large agency with hundreds of employees and glob...
2026-01-1520 min
Agency Leadership PodcastRediscovering your agency’s founding spark
As agency owners settle into 2026, it’s easy to operate on autopilot—chasing the next tactic without reconnecting with what made the business work in the first place. In this episode, Chip and Gini make the case for looking backward before charging forward.
Chip admits his first agency started because “consultant” sounded better than “unemployed.” But the real question isn’t just why you started—it’s why you decided to keep building. That motivation should be informing your strategy today.
Gini shares how she once believed she wanted a large agency with hundreds of employees and glob...
2026-01-1520 minAgency Leadership PodcastBalancing skills and personality when hiring a new team member
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the complexities of hiring in growing agencies. They highlight the challenges of finding skilled, reliable employees who align with agency values.
Sharing personal experiences, Gini explains the pitfalls of hasty hiring and the benefits of thorough vetting and cultural fit. They stress the importance of a structured hiring process, including clear job roles, career paths, and appropriate compensation. They also underscore the value of meaningful interviews, proper candidate evaluations, and treating the hiring process as the start of a long-term relationship.
Lastly, Chip and Gini emphasize learning from...
2025-12-0421 minAgency Leadership PodcastBalancing skills and personality when hiring a new team member
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the complexities of hiring in growing agencies. They highlight the challenges of finding skilled, reliable employees who align with agency values.
Sharing personal experiences, Gini explains the pitfalls of hasty hiring and the benefits of thorough vetting and cultural fit. They stress the importance of a structured hiring process, including clear job roles, career paths, and appropriate compensation. They also underscore the value of meaningful interviews, proper candidate evaluations, and treating the hiring process as the start of a long-term relationship.
Lastly, Chip and Gini emphasize learning from...
2025-12-0421 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 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 PodcastHandling early client contract terminations with finesse
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss how to manage situations where clients want to terminate contracts early. Gini emphasizes the importance of having a strong contract with clear termination clauses, which can serve as leverage in negotiations.
They share experiences and strategies for recovering outstanding invoices, including offering concessions and being flexible with payment arrangements. The duo also cautions against aggressive tactics like public shaming for non-payment and stresses the importance of maintaining professionalism to avoid burning bridges. They conclude with practical advice on managing accounts receivable and resolving disputes amicably.
Key takeaways
...
2025-09-0418 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 PodcastWhat to do when agency employees continue to over-service clients
In this episode, Chip and Gini focus on the issue of employees over-servicing clients. They discuss the reasons behind over-servicing, including fear of client dissatisfaction and insufficient initial project scopes.
The hosts emphasize the importance of educating employees on the long-term negative impacts, both on agency profitability and client relationships. They advocate for involving employees in strategic planning and scoping processes to ensure accurate budgeting and foster accountability.
Chip and Gini also highlight the benefits of regular communication and collaboration with team members to prevent recurring problems and enhance overall agency efficiency.
Key...
2025-07-3118 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 PodcastHow to handle unsolicited agency acquisition emails
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the frequent occurrence of receiving offers to buy agencies and how to handle these communications.
They share their own experiences of receiving such emails, including the prevalence of fraudulent or unserious offers. Gini describes her method of vetting these emails, such as examining URLs and LinkedIn profiles, and emphasizes the importance of legitimate connections within the industry.
Chip provides further insights into the credibility of business brokers and the typical behaviors to watch out for. Both caution against making emotional decisions and underscore the necessity of due diligence...
2025-07-1022 minAgency Leadership PodcastHow to handle your team when they don’t love your clients
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the challenges of dealing with team members who may not be enthusiastic about the clients or the work your agency is doing.
They cover whether agency owners should be concerned if their employees dislike the job, the consequences of ignoring such issues, and the importance of alignment between client work and employee satisfaction. They also emphasize the need for transparency in the hiring process and preparing employees for potential pivots or shifts in the agency’s focus.
Gini shares her personal experience with pivoting towards the PESO model, an...
2025-06-2617 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 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 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 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 PodcastAgency owners review 2024 performance, assess outlook
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the latest quarterly SAGA owner survey, which provides a mixed bag of results for agencies.
They explore key findings, including the cautious optimism displayed by respondents, concerns about economic conditions, and the impact of government policies. Despite the varied performance of agencies, many are still managing to move forward.
The discussion also delves into the benefits of project work, the size of client bases, and the lack of mergers and acquisitions activity. Chip and Gini encourage agency owners to stay informed about macroeconomic trends but also to focus...
2025-04-1019 minAgency Leadership PodcastPreparing your agency for an uncertain future
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss what agency owners can do to weather the current climate of economic uncertainty and potential recession. They suggest preparing for different economic scenarios by creating best, neutral, and worst case plans, cutting unnecessary expenses, and keeping lines of communication open with team members.
Chip and Gini also touch on the idea of diversifying income streams and being flexible with the type of work taken on, while cautioning against overreacting to market changes. They share personal experiences and practical steps to help agency owners lead through economic downturns.
Key...
2025-03-2720 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 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 PodcastWhy one-size-fits-all advice doesn’t work for agencies
In this episode, Chip and Gini dismantle the myth that agency management can rely on a one-size-fits-all approach. They emphasize the importance of understanding the diversity and unique needs of different types of agencies, such as PR, ad, and digital agencies.
Chip and Gini discuss their experiences in various agency environments and highlight the influence of agency size and specialization on management strategies. They caution against blindly following advice from other agency owners or consultants without considering the specific context and needs of one’s own agency. They also stress the importance of tailoring roles and titles to...
2024-09-0519 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 PodcastWhat to do when your agency can’t avoid responding to an RFP
If you’re a regular listener, you know that Chip and Gini have strong feelings about staying away from RFPs when possible. But sometimes they can’t be avoided.
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss offer practical tips for handling RFPs efficiently, like templatizing repeat information, asking insightful questions, and focusing on building relationships. They also touch on strategies for incumbent agencies facing potential renewal through RFPs, emphasizing the importance of not burning bridges and maintaining a full pipeline of business opportunities.
Overall, they highlight the necessity of minimizing effort while maximizing the chances of s...
2024-07-1821 minAgency Leadership PodcastWho Should PR Agencies Report To?
In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss whether PR agencies should report to the head of communications or the head of marketing. They reference a LinkedIn post by Parry Headrick, which suggests that PR agencies should ideally report to the communications lead.
Chip and Gini explore various considerations such as the size and structure of the client’s organization, the types of projects being handled, and the importance of having someone who understands PR work. They also emphasize the need for agencies to adapt and possibly integrate the PESO model to better serve modern client needs.
2024-07-1121 minAgency Leadership PodcastHave agencies listened too well to the “be strategic” mantra?
For years, agency advisors like Chip and Gini have implored agencies to be strategic and avoid being simple order takers. Owners were told that this shift was key to increasing profitability and client retention.
But has it gone too far? In this episode, Chip and Gini examine whether agencies have hit ‘peak strategy’ as suggested recently by Blair Enns.
They ask whether some agencies are overemphasizing strategy at the expense of implementation. They note that clients say they want their agencies to think strategically, but they also balk at explicit costs for strategic planning.
Th...
2024-06-2718 minAgency Leadership PodcastHave agencies listened too well to the “be strategic” mantra?
For years, agency advisors like Chip and Gini have implored agencies to be strategic and avoid being simple order takers. Owners were told that this shift was key to increasing profitability and client retention.
But has it gone too far? In this episode, Chip and Gini examine whether agencies have hit ‘peak strategy’ as suggested recently by Blair Enns.
They ask whether some agencies are overemphasizing strategy at the expense of implementation. They note that clients say they want their agencies to think strategically, but they also balk at explicit costs for strategic planning.
Th...
2024-06-2718 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 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 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 PodcastAgencies succeed through consistency and evolutionWhen Gini shared in a recent episode that her success has come from doing the same thing for 15 years, a listener pointed out that she has continued to evolve.
The two are not mutually exclusive. In fact, the best agencies usually combine the two.
Rather than chasing trends, successful agencies consistently produce excellent results for a well-defined set of clients.
At the same time, these high-performing agencies continue to evolve and adapt as tools and techniques change.
In this episode, Chip and Gini elaborate on how to blend the two effectively — and pi...
2024-01-2517 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 PodcastThe rising salary demands of agency employees
With labor costs usually accounting for the largest share of agency expenses, it is no surprise that owners are particularly sensitive to any indication that salaries might be creeping up.
Recent conversations that Chip and Gini have had with agency leaders suggest that both prospective hires and current employees are asking for much higher salaries than many owners feel comfortable paying.
In this episode, Chip and Gini talk about why salary expectations are on the rise and what agencies can — and should — do about it.
Often the problem is that agencies have held thei...
2023-10-1922 min
Course Lab: Lessons from Successful Online Course CreatorsCourse Cred (Gini Dietrich)Special "business revenue leak checklist" offer, free at http://www.mrse.co/leak.Gini Dietrich is the founder and CEO of Armand Deitrich, an integrated marketing communications firm based in Chicago and Spin Sucks, a PR and marketing blog and consulting site. As course creators, we often start with a course that we turn into a more robust business. We then scale that business into something larger to serve more people. Most of us don’t end up changing an entire industry. In this episode, Danny and Abe talk to Gini Dietrich about how she i...
2022-02-0726 min
Inside PRInside PR 554: Social Content Meets the Sound of SilenceHave your web analytics changed in recent years? That is, despite your best efforts, has your organic traffic gone down? What about SEO for blog posts? Or engagement on social media?
Maybe digital media has become even more of a pay-to-play landscape than ever and platforms are expecting a higher price from organizations in order for them to achieve decent business results.
That’s what Gini Dietrich, Joe Thornley and I talk about on Inside PR. Our conversation is based on a post by digital thought-leader Rand Fishkind called, ‘The Incentives to Publish No Longer Reward...
2021-10-0620 minInside PRInside PR: Surviving the economic downturnThe past month has brought market and economic turmoil the likes of which we have not seen since 2008. And only one thing is certain. There will be many businesses that do not make it through the downturn.
So, what’s the smart agency head doing? Definitely not going all in with a bet on a single business line. Smart leaders are diversifying their revenue stream during this time of uncertainty. And as they do this, they have the best chance of identifying the most promising areas for growth and also being able to exit the business areas wi...
2018-12-2729 minInside PRInside PR 524 When a client stops returning your calls
Google+ has gone away. We reflect on its demise and what it did and didn’t mean for us in its prime and at the end.
The retro-lovers among us may have noticed the return of the Palm brand name. It may go to show that there’s always a demand for people who turn left when the rest of us turn right.
There’s a new podcast for PR agency leaders, aptly named the Agency Leadership Podcast. And Gini Dietrich is co-hosting it with former Custom Scoop CEO Chip Griffin. Each week, Gini and Chip will provide insight into the chall...
2018-10-2922 minInside PRGini Dietrich shows us how to launch a podcastGini’s podcast, Spin Sucks, launched with three episodes. We talk about Gini’s approach to packaging and launching the podcast, and how she hopes to use it to build the Spin Sucks community. Not surprisingly, there’s real method to Gini’s actions. A text book example of how to launch a new podcast.
We also talk about the trend to building geographically dispersed teams freed of the need to show up at the office each day. Automattic, the company behind WordPress, just celebrated their 15th anniversary. And they also gave up their last office. Automattic has buil...
2018-06-0423 min
Inside PRGini Dietrich knows how to promote contentGini Dietrich, Martin Waxman and Joseph Thornley are back with another episode of the Inside PR podcast. This week, we discuss: #IPRMustKnow Instagram Stories continues to attract publisher interest. It could well be the combination of an engaging experience meeting a pre-existing audience. Blab shut down, abruptly. Another sign that the psychology of scale has beat out the idea of sustainability for many business founders? For sure, it's another reminder of the danger of placing your content eggs in any single shared space. Unless you promote it, they will not come Gini Dietrich schooled Joe on the importance and...
2016-09-0623 min