The one thing your marketing agency should want to do with you

Quite often clients thank me for the fact that we don't treat clients like a number and are not hard and fast on anything other than results. It's not only heart warming to hear but it also is a reassurance that we have the right company culture, passionate people and values that are aligned.

The "one thing" that all companies want with a marketing agency is a partnership. Now, many companies use this word loosely but it really comes down to every aspect of how you work with your clients.

Some tips that I espouse on new members of the team in our marketing agency in Melbourne:

• Treat clients like friends without "oversharing"
• Always do the right thing even if it means that you have to go out of your way
• Be respectful with their time as much as your own
• Collaborate and share ideas with clients
• Ensure that your values are aligned to your clients (and that doesn't mean who you vote for politically)
• Show empathy and compassion. If they are doing it tough, be there for them
• Listen and learn from what they share
• Show kindness and an appreciation for the fact that without your client, you may not have a job
• Share in the marketing and branding experience with your client and ask them insights into their business
• Be prepared to have their back.

The relationship you have with your client is important and that doesn't mean that you have to go out and drink alcohol with them or go to their kids soccer games. It means respecting them and caring enough to exceed their expectations. It also means working with them and always being prepared to listen to their thoughts without interuption.

We are blessed to have incredible clients that are true partners in marketing. - something every marketing agency should have.