An Agency-Client relationship is a relationship where both the parties have to work to build trust, honesty, transparency, understanding and respect. These partnerships are locked in forever on the contract. To make this relationship healthy and long lasting, each party must do their part to make it work.
Here are some principles that can strengthen their relationship –
• Transparency in Communication
There should not be any kind of difficulty in communicating. Always keep honesty and transparency while communicating. Using a single contact person can reduce communication errors. For agencies, the account manager is the person who collects information and feedback from the client. It’s his responsibility to regularly update the client on the progress of their SEO campaigns, discuss strategies, and be responsive to their queries and concerns.
For clients, the project manager is the person to receive direction from various stakeholders and present it to the agency.
• Trust Factor
Honesty, Trust and Commitment are vital ingredients to the success of any relationship. Honest feedback builds trust and is essential for both parties to show they are willing to meet each other’s expectations. Both the parties should have confidence in each other’s ability. For agencies, trust building happens with a deep understanding of the client, their products, and the people with whom they will work regularly. Regularly providing updates on a schedule helps to overcome any unforeseen issues. The agency must know their clients, their likes and dislikes to build a trust worthy relationship. For clients, Agency is there to make you money as a partner. They will need all the necessary details about your company, the product, people, and your corporate culture. The client should provide the agency with a well-written brief that details everything you want and expect.
• Trust the Process
According to the research papers, there are four stages in this association which are Establishment, Development, Maintenance and Conclusion. The agency-client relationship includes trust, respect and comfort between both the parties.
Agencies should let the client know what the process is and how long it will take. The agency must deliver on time and celebrate with their clients to keep them excited when you reach their goals. For clients, it can be frustrating to pay and not see any progress for weeks. The client should set milestones and goals so that the agency can provide you with realistic expectations. They should provide them the time they need to succeed.
• Feedbacks
Always be open to constructive criticism and take feedbacks. This will help you know what’s best for the client and then make required changes in your services. The agency can also take customer’s feedback as customer satisfaction should be a priority if you want a long term relationship with the client.
By taking feedbacks, you will be able to understand the client’s business techniques better. With their business expertise and youe SEO expertise, you can create powerful strategies that will help you get results quickly.