Engage a Digital Marketing Strategist for a Comprehensive Digital Strategy: The Cost and Benefits

Would you hire a digital marketing strategist to develop a full digital strategy for your brand or business? This comprehensive guide explores the benefits and costs associated with hiring a digital marketing strategist, offering valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.

Why Hire a Digital Marketing Strategist?

The role of a digital marketing strategist extends far beyond simply providing consultation. They are responsible for creating a well-rounded digital strategy that encompasses various aspects, including target audience personas, website audits, goal setting, content generation, tone of voice, research, and insights. This holistic approach is crucial in ensuring that your digital efforts align with your brand’s overall objectives.

Cost Considerations for Hiring a Digital Marketing Strategist

When considering the cost of hiring a digital marketing strategist, it's important to factor in the experience and skill level of the consultant. A good digital marketing strategist with a strong track record may command higher fees, but the investment is well worth it if they contribute significant value to your business. The cost can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands, depending on the scope of the project, experience, location, and the complexity of the digital audit.

Median Wage for Experience: Expect to pay a median salary for the strategist’s experience and expertise first. For instance, a junior-level strategist in a certain location might charge a different rate compared to a senior-level strategist with extensive experience. It is also wise to include a success fee; if the plan delivers on its promises, you are likely to see a higher return on investment.

Full-Service Engagement: While a one-time consultation might seem attractive, it is often less effective than hiring a strategist who can support you throughout the project. Full-service engagement ensures that the strategist has a vested interest in the outcome, as they are responsible for not just creating the strategy but also implementing it successfully. Look for a strategist who is willing to work closely with you, providing ongoing support rather than a one-time service.

Apart from the Strategy, What Else?

One critical point often overlooked is the execution. Even the best strategy cannot deliver value if it is not implemented effectively. Many businesses would pay for a comprehensive plan but are hesitant because they lack an in-house team or do not have the necessary skills to execute it. Therefore, it is imperative to consider the following:

Execution Training: Are there training sessions or resources available to ensure that your employees can take over the strategic initiatives once the consultant has left? Implementation Support: Does the strategist take the lead in implementation or provide a handover plan for your team? Monitoring and Adjustment: How will the strategy be monitored and adjusted over time to ensure ongoing success?

What a Digital Marketing Strategist Broader Role Includes

A digital marketing strategist's role is not limited to developing a strategy but also encompasses executing it. Digital marketing is more than just posting on social media; it involves:

Interacting with customers Developing a strong understanding of competitors Customer service Influencer marketing Sponsored content on platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn

Given the complexity and comprehensiveness of a digital marketing strategy, it is fundamentally important to hire a strong, experienced strategist who can provide a heavy-lifting approach necessary for success.

Cost-Effective Approach

While the cost can vary significantly, it is crucial to understand that the better the strategy, the better the return on investment. Expect to spend from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the scope of the project. However, investing in a comprehensive strategy that delivers tangible results is a wise investment for your business.