How to Select an Agency After Receiving RFPs

Did They Ask Questions?

Nothing is a bigger or brighter red flag than an agency that doesn’t ask follow up questions. Your consultation with an agency should feel seamless – almost as if you’re talking to a friend. If you get the impression that they have a list of prefabricated questions that they’re just marking off – end the conversation. Agencies that treat you like a checklist during your RFP process, will treat you like a checklist as a client.

Did They Provide Custom Solutions Based Off Your Goals?

If, in their proposal, they use generic language like “improve sales” or “increase leads”, be wary. You want an agency that identifies your specific goals and gives you solutions to reach those goals. Using unclear language is a tactic used by agencies to give themselves a bit of leniency when it comes to identifying if they did or did not deliver on their promise.

Look for proposals with SMART goals.

This Means Goals That Are:

• Specific
• Measurable
• Achievable
• Realistic and
• Time-bound (within a specific time frame)

Examples could be: “Increase sales by $4,000 in the next 2 months” or “obtain 5 new leads a month”.

Do They Operate On An Hourly Basis?

Contrary to popular belief, hourly budgets are not the best way to pay for a website. Between the varying salaries of the individuals working on your project and the resources needed for each aspect, your price will vary. Instead, look for an agency that proposes a final price. You can then split that budget into payments once a week, fortnightly or once a month depending on your cash flow. This way, you know exactly what to expect when the invoice comes around.

It’s worth a conversation to set your project apart.

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