Four Tips For A (Non) Profitable Relationship
How Not-For-Profits Can Get The Most From Their Creative Agencies
CHICAGO, April 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- This month, McGuffin Creative Group is awarding its third annual grant, which provides $25,000 in creative services to a 501(c)(3). Looking back on two years of successful grant projects, McGuffin President Chris Sculles offers his perspective on ways nonprofits can work with their agency partners to get better results.
1. Find the right match
Look to work with the creative agency you feel most comfortable with, not just the one with the most bells and whistles. A chic, modern office is impressive, but qualities like rapport and approachability are essential.
2. Get to know each other
When you first meet with your agency, be prepared to tell them who you are today, who you want to be, and what truly makes you special. Give concrete examples or case studies that bring your work to life. And ask your agency questions about how they work. What's their creative development process, from kick-off to completion? Who will be your primary and secondary contacts?
3. Build the relationship
A timely flow of communication between you and your agency is essential to the success of any project, whether it's a logo redesign or a major fundraising marketing campaign. Expect your agency to keep you apprised of schedules. Be prepared to answer questions during the creative development process and do what you can on your end to expedite your feedback. Good communication helps avoid inertia and ensures that everyone on the project – both you and your agency – remain engaged and excited.
4. Keep it just the two of you
This is big: Anyone with a vote in the direction, the look or the content of your agency's work should be engaged in the process from the start. Many a bold, bright idea has fallen prey to an executive director or a board member who was presented with a concept divorced from strategic intent. Relevant stakeholders should know what you know. Avoid the temptation of getting feedback from people with absolutely no skin in the game.
Above all, have fun. Your agency wants you to be delighted with the final product, and they're rooting for you to succeed. The right agency relationship – one that's built on a strong foundation of trust and communication from the start – can make that happen.
Learn more about The McGuffin Grant: mcguffincg.com
About McGuffin Creative Group
McGuffin Creative Group is a 25-member Chicago creative agency whose specialties range from branding to advertising, web design to direct marketing. Founded in 2004, the agency's clients include BMO Harris Bank, Allstate, Cadence Health and Cars.com.
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SOURCE McGuffin Creative Group
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