Marketing Strategy

It's not a secret that many companies that downsize, re-prioritize or expand find outsourcing to be a cost effective decision to fulfill certain corporation functions. Outsourcing has become an essential aspect of business strategies and this included the marketing function.

Outsourcing allows a company to put more focus on product development and overall operations. It eliminates the delay the need to hire full-time staff and avoids tasking overworked staff. Many marketing consultants help companies market their products and services without extending their in-house marketing staff. They can often provide the same service as an in-house marketing department, but at half the cost.

By outsourcing you gain the following:

Specialized skills and expertise

An external perspective and view point

Outsourcing can be intimidating at first, but there are things to look for when choosing a marketing consultant or an outside marketing firm. Here are a few evaluating questions that should assist you in finding a marketing consultant that is right for you.

Area of Expertise

Find out what their expertise is in. There are many component to marketing. What do they focus on? Here are common areas of expertise:

Search Engine Marketing and Optimization

Branding

Positioning

Affiliate Marketing Development and Management

Marketing Strategy and Plan Development

Internet Marketing Strategy and Plan Development

Lead Generation

Sales and Marketing Campaign Development

Marketing Classes, Seminars, and Workshops

Figure out what areas you need help in and look for consultants with expertise in those areas.

Training/Education

What type of training and/or education is important to you. I will tell you that education is important, however experience and hands-on expertise can far out weigh education when it comes down to success in marketing.

Ask for case studies, referrals, and experience in the areas that you need assistance in.

Certifications/Memberships

This will also tell you how active they are in the marketing community as well as if they've been certified in certain areas of marketing.

Notable Achievements

What are the