It does not matter what your business does or how long it has been in operation – if customers cannot find you, your options are severely limited. That is what marketing is all about, and why advertising your business is so critical to your success.

The way businesses are marketed has changed dramatically in recent years, driven by inventions like the internet and innovations like social media and the rise of digital outlets. The old forms of marketing are losing relevance, but new advertising venues have risen to take their place.

Digital marketing firms specialize in connecting business owners with eager buyers, but not all of these firms can deliver what they promise. If you want to make the most of the digital world and the potential it offers, you need to choose your partner with care. Here are some critical things to look for when hiring a digital marketing firm for your small business.

The Right Team

Digital marketing is all about people power, and having the right team is critical. If you want your digital marketing efforts to be effective, you need the right team in your corner.

Look for a digital marketing firm with a solid team, one comprised of capable men and women. The firm should have a solid track record of success, including success with businesses in your specific niche.

A Great Slate of Tools

Digital marketing firms use all kinds of tools to get the job done, and the companies with the best tools often achieve the best results. You may not know how to use all those tools, but you do need to know how they work and what they can accomplish.

Look for a digital marketing firm with a wide variety of tools at their disposal. Not all tools will be relevant to your business, so having a solid toolkit to choose from could prove pivotal.

A Killer Website

Digital marketers are experts, and that expertise should show in everything they do. For the small business owner, the most obvious demonstration of this expertise is the firm’s website.

If the website of the digital marketing firm is poor quality or seems outdated, it is time to look for another partner. And while a great website alone is not enough, it is a good indication that the firm has the necessary tools, experience and commitment.

Social Media Experience

A great deal of digital marketing happens on social media these days, so relevant experience is an absolute must. The most successful digital marketing firms have a deep understanding of social media, from traditional outlets like Facebook and Twitter to emerging players you may not have heard of.

Before hiring any digital marketing firm, you should discuss their social media strategy, from best practices to what they plan to do for your company in particular. This expertise should be a critical factor in your decision making, one that could tip the scales in favor of one firm over another.

Digital marketing is a powerful tool in the modern business world, but some providers are more capable than others. If you want to succeed in such a competitive environment, you need to make your choice carefully, using the factors listed above to find the most capable digital marketing partner.