When every digital marketing agency out there seems to be using the same buzzwords (you know the ones, ‘innovative’, ‘disruptive’, etc.) —how do you know which one is actually the right fit for your business?
It’s easy for agencies to talk the talk, but at Fortress, one of the leading digital marketing agencies in Chicago, we believe it’s about more than just delivering jargon. It’s about finding a partner that truly aligns with your goals, challenges the status quo, and helps you achieve measurable results.
The rest of this blog contains three key factors to look for when choosing the right agency for your business. And we know you’re busy, so we kept it brief just for you. You’re welcome.
1. They Challenge the Status Quo
There’s a lot to say on this topic, but here’s one green flag in an agency: they work together.
Like physically. In the same office at the same time.
As working remotely becomes more and more of an industry standard, at Fortress we continue to believe that some standards make you just that, standard. A great agency knows the importance of being in-person for idea generation and chemistry.
Another piece of challenging the status quo is being bold enough to ask tough questions or propose unconventional strategies that shake up your market. Formulas and templates absolutely work as a launching pad for a new project or campaign, but if the agency you’re considering is only offering you something templated, it’s a sign they might not be willing to adapt to your specific needs.
At Fortress, we prioritize flexibility. No two clients are the same, so why treat them that way? Your business deserves more.
2. They Measure What Matters
Every agency will tell you they measure results, but what are they actually tracking? Vanity metrics like social media likes or website traffic can look impressive on paper but don’t always tell the whole story. Your agency should focus on the data points that drive real business outcomes—like conversions, customer acquisition costs, and long-term growth indicators.
At Fortress, we believe in accountability when it comes to performance. We don’t flood you with numbers that don’t matter; instead, we work with you to identify key performance indicators (KPIs) that align with your business goals. Whether it’s driving leads, increasing sales, or improving brand awareness, we prioritize measurable outcomes that demonstrate the impact of our work.
3. They’re Transparent (No BS)
This goes hand-in-hand with measuring the right things, but it bears repeating that the best agencies are upfront about what’s working and what isn’t. You need a partner that doesn’t sugarcoat results or hide behind complicated jargon. Transparency isn’t just about sharing successes; it’s about being honest and making adjustments quickly.
At Fortress, we value open communication. We don’t make promises we can’t keep, and we don’t hide behind buzzwords. From the initial consultation to the reporting process, we maintain a no-nonsense approach to client relationships. Our goal is to ensure you understand what we’re doing, why we’re doing it, and how it’s moving the needle for your business.
Choosing the right digital marketing agency near you can feel daunting, especially when they all seem to blend together in a sea of similar language. The truth is, the right agency will stand out not because of what they say, but because of how they operate.
Look for an agency that challenges the status quo, focuses on metrics that truly matter, and values transparency above all else. At Fortress, we live by these principles, and we’re committed to helping you achieve your business goals with a partnership built on trust.
Ready to find out if Fortress is the right fit for your business? Let’s talk. Or better yet come visit us right here in Chicago.
