Hold your vendor’s feet to the fire

Have you ever had a bad experience with a marketing vendor?  I think we all have, but how could you have prevented it?

First, get everything in writing and be wary of vendors who go for the “quick sale”, lets say before the end of the month (when a sales cycle might end).  A lot of times higher education folks are afraid to get guaranteed lead numbers in writing, very recent (last month’s) traffic numbers and other pertinent information.

If you are engaged with a marketing vendor for branding, do not be afraid to ask questions and more questions.  Here are some good ones to ask:

-how many leads should I expect, can you guarantee that?

-how many people will my ad or or internet profile be exposed to a day

-how many people will my ad or internet profile be exposed to in these zip codes (especially if you are a local draw)

-will the leads I receive be shared or exclusive?

-what recourse do I have if the campaign does not turn out well?

Please remember that you are not afraid to ask questions at the car dealership (when purchasing a new car), do not be afraid to ask questions of your marketing vendor!

matt (marketmpb)

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