How to tell if a marketing consultant "gets" you and your business
When it comes to hiring a marketing consultant, one of the first things you should think about it whether or not someone truly understands your business. It’s more than just creating a strategy… it’s about finding someone who connects with your goals, your values, and your unique challenges.
But how can you tell if a marketing consultant really “gets” your business? Here are some key questions to help you figure it out.
1. Do They Dive Into the Details?
A consultant who’s serious about understanding your business won’t stop at surface-level conversations. They’ll dig deep into your industry, competitors, and the inner workings of your brand. They’ll come to the table with real insights, not just a canned pitch. If they’re not diving into the details, how can they create a strategy that drives real results? Look for someone who’s willing to do the homework.
2. Do They Ask a Lot of Good Questions?
Great consultants are naturally curious. They don’t just assume they know what’s best for your business—they ask thoughtful, probing questions. Whether they’re asking about your company culture, long-term goals, or pain points, this curiosity shows they’re committed to truly understanding your business. If they aren’t asking questions, that could be a red flag that they’re not tuned in to what you really need.
3. Do They Have a One-Size-Fits-All Approach?
Beware of consultants who offer the same cookie-cutter strategies to every client. Your business is unique, and your marketing approach should be, too. A consultant who really “gets” you will create custom solutions tailored to your challenges and opportunities. If you’re seeing a one-size-fits-all plan, they might not be putting in the effort to understand your business fully.
4. Are They Connecting Their Work to Your Specific Goals?
A consultant who understands your business will always tie their strategies back to your big-picture goals. They’ll explain how each marketing move supports your long-term vision and growth plans. You want someone who isn’t just focused on short-term wins but can help you make progress toward your broader objectives.
5. Do You Feel Like They Communicate Well?
Communication is everything. A consultant who really understands your business will speak your language, whether it’s through written content, visuals, or overall messaging. There should be a clear alignment with your brand’s tone, values, and identity. If the way they communicate doesn’t feel right, it could be a sign they’re not fully tuned into what makes your business unique.
6. Do You Feel Like They “Get” You and Your Business?
Sometimes, it’s more than just the numbers and the strategy. It’s about feeling like they truly understand the heart and soul of your business. An empathetic consultant can tap into the passion and purpose behind what you do, creating campaigns that resonate with your audience on a deeper level. When they “get” your brand’s heartbeat, the marketing naturally connects.
7. Do They Ask for Your Input?
The best marketing partnerships are a collaboration. A consultant who values your input and actively seeks feedback is showing you they care about your vision. When you’re both aligned and working together, the end product will feel right for your business—and that’s when the magic happens.
8. Are They in It for the Long Haul?
A great marketing consultant doesn’t just see your business as a short-term project. They’re interested in building a long-term relationship, adapting their strategies as your business evolves. If they’re truly invested in your growth, they’ll be there to help you adjust, pivot, and scale as you move forward.
The Bottom Line
Finding a marketing consultant who truly understands your business isn’t just a “nice to have”—it’s essential for long-term success. Ask yourself these key questions before you dive into a partnership. If they’re committed, curious, and collaborative, and if they value your goals and vision, you’ve likely found a consultant who’s going to help you unlock the full potential of your marketing efforts.
Ready to find a marketing consultant who gets your business? Let’s chat!