When does doing it yourself make sense?
- You are just starting and the budget is tight.
- You enjoy it and will keep at it.
- You only need a few things: a Google profile, reviews, and one social account.
When should I get help?
- Posts and follow ups keep getting skipped.
- The website is out of date and you do not know where to start.
- You cannot tell what is working.
- You are growing and need it to happen every week, not when there is time.
Freelancer, agency, or small studio?
- A freelancer usually covers one skill, costs less, and you coordinate the rest.
- An agency covers many skills, with more process, and often longer contracts and higher minimums.
- A small studio sits between: one point of contact across several services.
AMORA Studios is a small studio, so weigh our view with that in mind.
What should I ask before hiring anyone?
- Who exactly will do the work?
- How long is the contract, and how much notice to leave?
- Who owns the website, the social accounts, and the ad accounts?
- How will I see results, and how often?
- What do you need from me each month?
- Can I talk to a current client?
What are the red flags?
- Guaranteed number one rankings. Google itself says no one can guarantee that.
- Long lock-in contracts.
- The agency owns your accounts or your website.
- Reports full of jargon and no numbers for calls, bookings, or customers.
Common questions
How much does a marketing agency cost for a small business?
It varies widely, from a few hundred dollars a month for a single service to several thousand for a full team. Ask for a written list of what is included at each price.
Can I switch marketing agencies later?
Yes, if you own your accounts and your website. Check that before you sign anything.
What marketing should a small business owner keep doing personally?
The personal parts: replying to regulars, quick videos of the work, and asking for reviews in person. Hand off the routine.