Podcast appearances and mentions of drew mclellan

Welcome to another engaging episode of Build a Better Agency! This week, host Drew McLellan shines a spotlight on a topic that's both enjoyable and essential to agency life—fun. Drew is joined by Dr. Mike Rucker, a behavioral psychologist and author of The Fun Habit, for a lively exploration into how prioritizing fun and joy can make you a better leader, a more creative thinker, and ultimately, help you build a stronger agency. Mike delves into the science behind why Western culture tends to villainize fun in favor of productivity—and why that mindset is doing more harm than good. He unpacks concepts from positive psychology and reveals that constantly chasing happiness, or waiting for “someday” to enjoy yourself, can actually hinder well-being and lead to burnout. Instead, Mike explains the hedonic flexibility principle, which demonstrates that regularly scheduling small moments of joy leads to greater productivity, resilience, and creativity in both personal and professional realms. Drew and Mike discuss practical ways to infuse everyday life with meaningful fun, rather than relying on the occasional big vacation or forced office events. They address the challenges agency owners face, from time poverty and remote work's blurred boundaries to generational differences in attitudes toward work and leisure. Listeners will find actionable strategies for designing transition rituals, claiming genuine downtime, and fostering a culture where fun isn't just tolerated—it's championed.  Don't miss this episode if you're ready to break free from the grind and discover how making room for fun can transform your leadership, elevate your agency's performance, and improve your own well-being. By the end, you'll have practical tools to create more moments of joy for yourself and your team, and a whole new perspective on why fun is far from frivolous—it's fundamental!  A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: The critical link between fun, productivity, and agency creativity   Why scheduling small, consistent moments of joy matters more than big events Tips for reclaiming time autonomy as an agency leader Understanding and applying the hedonic flexibility principle Strategies for breaking the workaholic mindset and preventing burnout The right—and wrong—ways to foster fun within agency teams Rethinking work rituals for healthier boundaries in hybrid and remote environments

Welcome to a special solocast episode of Build a Better Agency! In this midyear trend report, hosts Drew McLellan and Danyel Newcom McLellan dig deep into the evolving landscape facing agency owners in 2025. Leveraging data, global industry perspectives, and hands-on agency experience, Drew and Danyel break down what's really impacting agencies right now and what to keep your eye on as the year unfolds. This episode covers the biggest drivers reshaping the agency world—from economic and political disruptions to shifting client and employee expectations. Drew and Danyel explore findings from the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer, including the global “crisis of grievance,” and detail the unique opportunities and obligations business leaders face as the most trusted type of institution. They reveal how financial trends, M&A activity, and even compensation expectations are shifting, providing a realistic look at growth, profitability, and future planning. You'll also hear a candid analysis of client dynamics and new business trends: increased buyer skepticism and demand for transparency, shorter contract terms, and the rising importance of social proof and niche expertise in attracting and retaining accounts. Internally, the episode explores changing workforce norms, a renewed focus on employee development and mental health, and innovative staffing strategies to increase agility and resilience. Rounding out the conversation, Drew and Danyel highlight where agencies are finding success—including the explosive impact of AI, new roles like creative technologists, the resurgence of retro campaigns, and the growing power of influencer and creator marketing. Whether you're preparing your agency for exit, acquisition, or simply striving to thrive during uncertain times, this action-packed episode provides practical, actionable insights to help you build a stronger, more sustainable business. Don't miss the chance to regroup, refocus, and get energized for what's ahead! A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Navigating economic and political uncertainty in agency operations Building and maintaining trust with clients and employees Shifting trends in agency growth, profitability, and M&A activity The rising importance of transparency and authenticity with clients Harnessing outside validation and social proof for new business Leveraging innovation, partnerships, and flexible team structures Embracing AI and data-driven insights as core agency strengths

Welcome to a timely episode of Build a Better Agency! This week, host Drew McLellan is joined by research partner Susan Baier from Audience Audit to unveil the results of the 2025 Agency Edge Research, fresh from its debut at the Build a Better Agency Summit. Together, they dig deep into how agency clients really feel about artificial intelligence—where they're embracing it, where they're hesitant, and what they truly want from their agency partners as AI becomes an ever-more central part of the marketing landscape. Susan and Drew break down the study's findings, revealing surprising good news for agencies: most clients are not only comfortable with agencies using AI, they actually want their agencies to be transparent and step up as guides and educators in the new AI-driven world. The episode introduces the three client mindsets the research uncovered—AI Embracers, AI Skeptics, and AI Opportunists—exploring what each group wants, fears, and expects when it comes to agency use of AI. Along the way, Susan shares eye-opening data that challenges common agency fears, like the myth that all clients want to replace agencies with tech or are solely focused on cost savings. . Drew and Susan discuss practical, actionable opportunities for agency leaders to build trust, grow their strategic value, and tap into new revenue streams by leading client conversations about AI. They emphasize key client desires: greater transparency around AI use, expert guidance on tools and applications, and clear communication about regulations and risk. You'll also hear why clients view agency guidance on AI as an entry point not just for marketing, but for broader organizational needs—a potential seat at the coveted strategy table.  Don't miss this episode if you want to stay a step ahead in the evolving AI landscape. You'll come away with not only a clear understanding of what your clients are thinking, but with actionable ways to strengthen your agency's position, open new doors, and create deeper, more trusted partnerships in the age of AI.  A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Exploring client attitudes toward agency use of AI   The critical roles of transparency and trust in agency-client relationships Breaking down three client mindsets: AI embracers, skeptics, and opportunists The growing expectation for agencies to be AI guides, not just service providers Why most clients value better results—not just lower fees—from AI adoption Addressing client concerns and opportunities through open AI conversations Action steps for agencies to become indispensable AI partners

Welcome to another insightful episode of Build a Better Agency! This week, host Drew McLellan is joined by Matt Davies and Pieter-Paul von Weiler, the strategist duo behind the Better Briefs Project, to tackle one of the most persistent and frustrating challenges agencies face: the elusive art of creating a truly effective brief. If you've ever struggled with unclear objectives, misaligned expectations, or wasted rounds of creative development, this episode is packed with data-driven answers and practical solutions. Drawing on global research from over 1,700 marketers and agency professionals across 70 countries, Matt and Pieter-Paul share eye-opening findings about the wide gap between what clients think they're delivering in a brief and what agencies are actually receiving. They break down the staggering disconnect—like the fact that 78% of marketers believe their briefs offer clear strategic direction, while only 5% of agencies agree—and explore the ripple effect this misalignment has on wasted budgets, morale, and creative outcomes. Drew leads a discussion on why so many briefs fall short, what really constitutes a great brief, and how both agencies and clients can step up to improve the process. You'll hear actionable advice on teaching clients the value of a well-crafted brief, initiating honest conversations before a live project starts, and creating custom templates that actually work for both sides. Plus, Matt and Pieter-Paul draw on their extensive agency experience to explain the difference between client briefs and creative briefs, and how agencies can strategically refine incoming briefs for stronger creative results.  Whether you're an agency owner, account executive, or creative lead, don't miss this episode if you're ready to reclaim lost time, reduce budget waste, and build stronger partnerships with your clients around the brief-writing process. By the end, you'll feel equipped to have more candid, constructive conversations and ensure every campaign starts with clarity and purpose. Head over to betterbriefs.com for more resources and get ready to produce your agency's best work yet!  A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Understanding the disconnect between marketers and agencies when it comes to briefs   Why most briefs lack clear objectives, strategic direction, and alignment The business impact of poor briefs—including wasted budgets and extra rework How agencies can proactively educate clients and improve the briefing process The difference between client marketing briefs and agency creative briefs The importance of partnership and communication in crafting great ideas Practical steps to help clients (and agencies) write better, more effective briefs

Welcome to another inspiring episode of Build a Better Agency! In this episode, host Drew McLellan sits down with high-performance coach and leadership expert Christina Langdon to explore what it truly means to scale your agency—not just in terms of size or revenue, but in mindset, vision, and team culture. Drawing on decades of leadership experience at organizations like Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia and Fast Company, Christina offers invaluable insights on unlocking growth and reimagining success for agency leaders and their teams. Throughout their conversation, Drew and Christina unpack the dangers of operating on “default mode,” the pitfalls that keep agencies stuck in status quo thinking, and how our brains—wired for survival rather than success—can hold us back from imagining extraordinary futures. Christina introduces practical strategies for reflection and growth, including her signature daily practice: reviewing what worked, what didn't, and what can be done differently. She explains how these habits, when shared individually and collectively, can spark new awareness and propel teams toward higher performance, deeper engagement, and lasting happiness at work. The episode also delves into tactical frameworks for agency owners looking to elevate their leadership teams, assess existing capabilities, and foster cultures of intentional learning. Christina shares actionable tips on co-creating extraordinary goals, updating job descriptions to match evolving strengths, and using tools like user manuals to deepen collaboration and understanding within teams. You'll also hear how to address common “dream killers,” manage stress by focusing on what's within your control, and get buy-in for big, bold changes—even from those who might be resistant to new ways of thinking.  If you're ready to move beyond incremental improvements and instead ignite genuine transformation within your agency, this episode is packed with real-world advice and motivational stories to get you started. Whether you want to grow in revenue, impact, retention, or simply reclaim your team's enthusiasm, Christina and Drew provide a roadmap for dreaming bigger—together.  A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Shifting agency leadership out of “default mode” and embracing intentional growth  Rewiring mindsets from survival to imagination for breakthrough results Building daily reflection practices to improve agency and personal performance Co-creating extraordinary futures as a leadership team rather than top-down planning Leveraging vulnerability and user manuals to deepen team collaboration Tackling chronic stress and letting go of low-impact work for better productivity Rethinking job descriptions and success criteria to elevate leaders and teams  

Welcome to a compelling new episode of Build a Better Agency! This week, host Drew McLellan is joined by familiar faces Susan Baier from Audience Audit and Brian Gerstner from White Label IQ to discuss the findings of the 2025 Agency Core research study. Together, Susan and Brian have launched Agency Core, a nonprofit initiative dedicated to providing agency owners with powerful, unbiased data about what's really going on in the agency world—and the latest results are as sobering as they are enlightening. Drew, Susan, and Brian unpack the study's in-depth findings, based on responses from over 700 agency leaders. They explore the five distinct agency segments identified, analyzing which mindsets and practices set high-performing agencies apart from their peers. The discussion covers the recurring challenges hurting agency profitability and optimism, including the ongoing struggle with building a strong pipeline, the reality of staffing issues, and a noticeable decline in overall optimism among agency owners compared to previous years. The trio digs into what's driving these trends and why, despite all the talk around new technologies like AI, the most pressing problems for agencies remain much more fundamental. You'll also hear their perspectives on the importance of specialized positioning, the power of thought leadership, formal client retention strategies, and maintaining a proactive approach to agency marketing—plus, the critical role of community and peer support in navigating tough times.  If you're looking for actionable insights and a candid, data-driven roadmap to greater agency success, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in for practical strategies and encouragement on how to move from feeling stuck to thriving, even in a changing industry landscape. By the end, you'll be equipped to make meaningful changes and inspired to take the next steps toward building a stronger, more resilient agency.  A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: The power of niche positioning and thought leadership for agency resilience   Why so many agency owners are struggling and the importance of moving from tactical to strategic work Pipeline challenges as the top threat facing agencies today—far surpassing concerns about AI How formal client retention systems and proactive strategic thinking fuel growth The critical role of reputation: it's what others say about you, not what you say about yourself Team loyalty initiatives and their connection to agency performance and staff retention Choosing your path: the necessity of specialization versus the struggles of being a generalist

In-house marketers and agency leaders don't always speak the same language - but when they do, the results can be game-changing.In this episode, host James Lawrence sits down with Drew McLellan, CEO of the Agency Management Institute, to unpack what makes agency relationships thrive or fail. Whether you're managing one agency or several, or considering switching partners altogether, this episode is for anyone wanting to bridge the in-house/agency gap.Key Takeaways:The top reason agency-client relationships break down: (communication) and how to fix How in-house marketers can improve agency performance through more transparencyWhy caring (and showing it) really matters to agenciesThe red flags that indicate when it's time to walk away from your agencyWhy investing in building a true partnership with your agency pays offGuest:Drew McLellan has worked in advertising for 25+ years and started his own agency, McLellan Marketing Group in 1995 after a five-year stint at Y&R. He also owns and runs the Agency Management Institute (AMI), which is a consultancy for small to medium-sized agencies that has been helping agency owners grow their agencies since the early 90s. Drew's agency was a member of the organization for years before Drew acquired AMI and began to run it full-time. Drew's often interviewed/quoted in Entrepreneur Magazine, New York Times, CNN, BusinessWeek, and many others. The Wall Street Journal calls him “one of 10 bloggers every entrepreneur should read.You can follow Drew on LinkedIn.Find Us Online:James Lawrence LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameslawrenceoz/ Smarter Marketer Website: https://rocketagency.com.au/smarter-marketer-podcast Rocket Agency Website: https://rocketagency.com.au/ Rocket Agency LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rocket-agency-pty-ltd/Buy Smarter Marketer:Hardcover: https://amzn.to/30O63kg Kindle: https://amzn.to/2ZqfCWm About the Podcast:This is the definitive podcast for Australian marketers. Join Rocket Agency Co-Founder and best-selling author, James Lawrence in conversation with marketers, leaders, and thinkers about what it takes to be a smarter and more successful marketer.

Welcome to a milestone episode of Build a Better Agency! This week, host Drew McLellan takes the mic solo to commemorate a remarkable achievement—the 500th episode of the podcast. With nearly a decade of weekly episodes under his belt, Drew reflects on the invaluable lessons that have emerged from ten years of conversations, challenges, and growth within the agency world. In this special episode, Drew distills his journey into five key lessons learned through years of podcasting and agency consulting. From recognizing that agency life is a marathon, not a sprint, to emphasizing the importance of surrounding yourself with the right team, Drew candidly addresses both the successes and the struggles that come with leading and growing a business. He offers practical wisdom on staying adaptable, celebrating milestones, and taking care of your own wellbeing—insights applicable whether you're a new agency owner or a seasoned industry veteran. Drew also shares why having the right support system is crucial, illustrating how learning and growing together creates a thriving agency community. He dives into the values that drive AMI, especially the commitment to leading with love, and how clear core values and business practices act as guiding principles during both calm and challenging times. If you're looking for inspiration, reassurance, or tangible takeaways to apply to your agency, don't miss this landmark episode. Drew's reflections are a heartfelt thank you to listeners, guests, and partners, as well as a rallying call for the next 500 episodes—reminding all of us that the agency journey is a whole lot better when we travel it together. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Embracing agency ownership as a marathon, not a sprint The critical value of ongoing learning and adaptability Prioritizing self-care and celebrating small wins along the way Building and nurturing a strong, supportive team culture Leading with core values—especially love and gratitude Using clear boundaries and best practices to guide agency decisions   The power of community: why together is always better

We're bringing back one of our most valuable episodes  a conversation that's just as relevant today as when it first aired. The agency world has seen plenty of change in recent years. But with that change comes opportunity — for evolution, adaptation, and leadership. In this episode, Drew McLellan joins us to talk about the current state of the agency landscape in 2024, the importance of thought leadership, and how to build real trust with clients long before the sale.Watch our latest video training, How to Take Charge of Your Agency's Future Revenue. During this training, you'll learn how we get qualified appointments every week using tasteful and highly targeted email outreach.In this episode, Dan and Drew discuss:Why trust starts long before the sales conversationWhat it really takes to grow your agency sustainablyHow to position your agency as a true thought leaderWhere AI adds value (and where it doesn't)Drew McLellan has worked in advertising for over 30 years. He runs McLellan Marketing Group and Agency Management Institute (AMI), where he helps thousands of small and mid-sized agencies grow smarter and stronger every year.Whether you missed this episode the first time or just need a refresher, we're excited to bring it back. If you enjoy it, don't forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast  and share your biggest takeaway with us. Learn more about The Digitial Agency Growth Podcast at https://www.salesschema.com/podcast/ and our Video training at http://salesschema.com/takecharge CONNECT WITH DREW MCLELLAN:Agency Management InstituteLinkedInX (formerly Twitter)WebsiteCONNECT WITH DAN ENGLANDER:LinkedInSales Schema

Welcome to another can't-miss episode of Build a Better Agency! This week, host Drew McLellan invites negotiation expert Mike Lander to shed light on a critical, and often misunderstood, stage of growing your agency: the art of winning new business and, crucially, negotiating strong client contracts. If your agency is hustling for fresh opportunities in the midst of economic uncertainty, this discussion is perfectly timed to help you secure the deals that matter—on terms that support your profitability and long-term growth. Mike Lander brings a unique dual perspective as both a former procurement director (the “buy side”) and current advisor to agencies navigating the “sell side.” Together with Drew, he explores why so many agencies trip up after being “awarded” new business, mistaking the proposal win for the finish line when, in reality, it's the starting point for some of the most pivotal work ahead. Mike reveals how agencies can better qualify opportunities, avoid that painful “close second” outcome, and, above all, approach negotiation with a mindset of mutual value creation rather than desperate discounting. The episode dives deep into actionable best practices you can deploy immediately—from building a robust qualification scorecard and prepping for negotiations, to mastering the art of trading instead of discounting. Mike and Drew also tackle the importance of agency differentiation, emphasizing why expertise and industry-specific knowledge trump generic promises of creativity or methodology. Plus, learn how to lead conversations with the kind of value, risk mitigation, and trust-building that makes your agency stand out in a crowded, competitive field.  Whether you're tired of burning countless hours on unwinnable pitches or want to strengthen your contracts for better client and agency outcomes, you'll find a wealth of insights in this episode. Get ready to rethink your approach to business development—and leave with concrete “homework” that will set your agency up for more wins, stronger partnerships, and greater profitability. Don't miss it!  A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Rethinking the pitch process—why winning isn't the finish line, but just the beginning   The dangers of chasing bad-fit clients and how to develop a qualification scorecard Differentiation strategies beyond methodology and “our people”—the real keys to standing out Communicating value and risk to buyers—focusing on afters, measurable results, and case studies Stop discounting and start trading—how agencies should approach contract negotiations The art and science of being a trust builder versus a pushover in negotiations Why creative excellence alone won't win the deal—and separating creative from commercial conversations

Welcome to another insightful episode of Build a Better Agency! In this session, host Drew McLellan is joined by PR expert Ryan Gerding, CEO of Inc. Public Relations, to explore the evolving landscape of public relations and its crucial role in modern communication strategies. Ryan brings over two decades of experience in the PR industry, offering a comprehensive look at how the traditional boundaries of PR have expanded far beyond media relations. Together, Drew and Ryan explore the shifting dynamics of the PR world and how agencies can leverage storytelling, media relationships, and new platforms to enhance their clients' visibility and credibility. They dive into the art of building valuable relationships with media outlets and reporters, emphasizing the importance of being genuinely helpful rather than simply seeking coverage. Ryan also shares his take on the integration of AI in PR, its benefits in organizing thoughts, and its limitations when it comes to creativity—a conversation rich with practical advice for navigating today's media landscape.  This episode is a must-listen for agency professionals eager to understand the nuanced strategies of modern PR. Discover how to turn potential challenges into opportunities by being a trusted resource and explore the ways PR can significantly boost your agency's success in these ever-changing times.  A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Navigating the modern PR landscape and its evolution from traditional media relations   Building effective relationships through relevance and helpfulness The impact of AI on PR strategies and operations Understanding the value and implications of pay-to-play PR opportunities Preparing clients for successful media interviews with authentic conversations Enhancing agency-client collaboration through education and expectation management The importance of persistence in media outreach efforts

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Build a Better Agency! In this episode, host Drew McLellan delves into the nuances of effective communication, a skill vital for thriving in today's tumultuous business landscape. Joined by guest Cynthia Kane, an expert in mindful communication, they explore how to navigate conversations with clarity and calm, even amidst chaos. Cynthia shares her journey from struggling with passive-aggressive communication to mastering the art of mindful dialogue. This episode unpacks techniques to foster inner calm, which in turn enhances leadership qualities, especially crucial given the current climate of change and uncertainty. Drew and Cynthia discuss the significance of understanding and managing one's emotional and physical responses to ensure conversations lead to constructive outcomes. Listeners will gain insights on the power of pausing to regain composure during challenging interactions. Cynthia introduces practical practices like breathing exercises and self-talk adjustments that leaders can adopt to steer conversations towards resolution rather than conflict. They also highlight the importance of intentional communication, where clarity trumps winning an argument, thereby fostering trust and collaboration within teams.  Tune in to grasp how these communication strategies can transform not only your professional endeavors but your personal relationships as well. This episode is a must-listen for agency leaders ready to enhance their communication skills, cultivate resilient work environments, and lead with authenticity and efficacy. You'll leave with actionable steps to engage more mindfully with your team and clients, building a robust foundation for success.  A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: The importance of inner calm and clarity in leadership during turbulent times   Developing effective communication skills as a learned practice Recognizing and managing physical sensations as cues for stress or discomfort The significance of taking a pause to gain control and clarity in a conversation Practical techniques for maintaining composure and de-escalating tense situations Communicating effectively across generational and remote work challenges The powerful role of intention and mindfulness in professional interactions  

Welcome to another insightful episode of Build a Better Agency! Today, host Drew McLellan returns with guest Lee McKnight from RSW to dive deep into the findings of the new 2025 Outlook report, exploring the evolving landscape of agency-client dynamics. As a key industry player, Lee brings a wealth of knowledge about the intersection of innovative trends and client expectations. In this enlightening discussion, Drew and Lee unpack the promising data from the report, which suggests an optimistic outlook for agency-client spending in the coming year. They tackle critical topics such as the enduring power of referrals, the rising significance of direct outreach, and the crucial role of consistent and targeted content in building authority and securing new business. They make it clear that agencies need to embrace these insights to tailor their strategies effectively. The pair also delve into the complex topic of competition from in-house teams and how agencies can strategically position themselves as indispensable partners through specialized expertise and forward-thinking strategies. Highlighting the potential of AI in both business development and operational efficiency, Drew and Lee emphasize the importance of agencies staying ahead of the curve to maintain relevancy and competitiveness in an ever-changing market.  This episode is packed with actionable insights and expert advice that can help you refine your approach to business development, client retention, and trend adaptation. Whether you're looking to cement your agency's authority or navigate the nuances of modern client demands, this episode offers the guidance you need to thrive. Don't miss out on learning how to align your agency's efforts with the expectations of 2025 and beyond.  A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: The alignment and discrepancies in spending optimism between marketers and agencies  The persistent and pivotal role of referrals and outreach in agency-client relationships Embracing AI for research and operational efficiencies without undermining creativity The evolving dynamics of in-house agency work versus external agency engagements Navigating the world of RFPs with a focus on strategic selectivity Demonstrating value through differentiated expertise and specialization Leveraging short-form video content to engage and attract potential clients  

Before I introduce you to today's guest, I want to take a quick moment to share a recap from our recent 2-day Intensive that we hosted for Predictive clients and guests on March 19th and 20th. If you're not familiar with our Intensives, three times a year — March, July, and November — we bring our Predictive clients together on Zoom for what we call the “2-day Intensive.” It's where we pull back the curtain on Predictive's best strategies and tactics, breaking everything down in full transparency so our clients can take the key insights and install them into their agencies. This past March, we focused on one critical goal — helping agencies sell more of what they do. Drew McLellan, CEO of Agency Management Institute, kicked things off on Day 1 with a deep dive into how to build and nurture a thriving community.  On Day 2, Hannah Roth — our Director of Strategy and resident Mad Scientist here at Predictive — absolutely crushed it. She walked us through key components of the sales process — including a technique she calls Align and Prescribe. That's exactly why I invited Hannah to join me on today's episode. We break down Align and Prescribe step by step, so you can see how it works — and most importantly, how you can put it into action inside your agency. If you take what Hannah shares today and apply it, you and your team will be Aligning and Prescribing like pros and closing more sales in a way that feels natural, confident, and right-fit. What you will learn in this episode: How to set the stage with confidence and own the conversation Recapping your prospective client's concerns turns potential pitfalls into trust-building moments Hannah's high impact questions that will shorten the sales cycle How to leverage storytelling instead of relying solely on facts The subtle transitions from help me understand calls to aligning on solutions that resonate deeply with right-fit prospects How you can get Hannah's new eBook on Align and Prescribe Resources: Website: www.predictiveroi.com Visit our newly expanded Resource Library Join us in our free How to Fill Your Sales Pipeline Facebook Group Hannah's LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-roth-387a6b223/ Order your free paperback or Kindle copy of our Book: Sell with Authority

Welcome to another episode of Build a Better Agency! In this solo cast, host Drew McLellan takes center stage to discuss a critical topic that every agency owner should consider—broadening the concept of growth beyond the traditional metrics like headcount and gross billings. As an agency leader, you'll gain fresh perspectives on how to leverage different growth strategies that go beyond the surface level. Drew delves into the importance of enhancing your agency's growth across various dimensions. He emphasizes the need for agencies to focus on increasing their adjusted gross income, not just through acquiring new clients but also by maximizing the potential of existing ones. Drew challenges agency owners to rethink efficiency, suggesting innovative ways to manage cost of goods and improve team structures through global talent pools and flexible work arrangements. Listeners will also be encouraged to concentrate on retaining clients and top talent, creating a stable foundation for long-term success. Drew outlines how educating both your internal team and clients can lead to more robust relationships and, ultimately, increased agency profitability. A particularly noteworthy point is that true agency growth should translate into better compensation for owners, stressing the holistic value of growth. Don't miss this episode if you're ready to explore comprehensive growth strategies that extend beyond just numbers. Drew's insights will provide you with actionable steps to transform your agency's approach to growth, offering a renewed sense of purpose and direction in how you develop and sustain your business. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Rethinking agency growth beyond headcount and gross billings The significance of continual learning and teaching within the agency Strategies for increasing adjusted gross income and profitability The vital role of client and team member retention in agency success Exploring flexible team structures and global talent for agency growth Developing a comprehensive plan for agency owner compensation   Embracing new business opportunities through deeper client relationships [

Welcome to the latest episode of Build a Better Agency! In this engaging discussion, host Drew McLellan is joined by veteran leader Jim Fielding to explore what it takes to be an authentic and effective leader in today's ever-changing landscape. With a wealth of experience garnered from his impressive career in retail and media, including at Disney and DreamWorks, Jim sheds light on being true to oneself while navigating the complexities of leadership. Throughout the episode, Jim shares his personal journey, including the motivations behind his book "All Pride, No Ego: A Queer Executive's Journey to Living and Leading Authentically." He highlights the internal challenges and triumphs he's faced in embracing authenticity as a leader from a marginalized community. Jim offers universal advice on overcoming self-imposed barriers and being vulnerable in leadership—core themes that resonate across industries and identities. Drew and Jim delve deep into the critical aspects of managing during tumultuous times, focusing on controlling what you can, communicating transparently with your team, and maintaining flexibility to adapt to uncertainty. Jim also emphasizes the importance of building diverse, high-performing teams and the business case for diversity and inclusion, especially in client-facing industries like agencies.  Don't miss this enlightening conversation filled with actionable insights on how to foster a culture of trust, respect, and exceptional leadership. Whether you're a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, this episode promises a wealth of knowledge to enhance your leadership journey.  A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Embracing vulnerability as a leader during uncertain times  Importance of over-communication with team members and clients Creating a diverse team to reflect and understand the client base Listening to team feedback to mitigate blind spots Balancing pride and ego for effective leadership Finding and utilizing your personal board of advisors for guidance Encouraging innovation and diverse perspectives within your team

Welcome to the latest episode of Build a Better Agency! This time, host Drew McLellan is joined by leadership expert Suzanna de Baca for a thought-provoking discussion that will transform the way you think about your role within your agency. As the new year inspires fresh goals, Drew and Suzanna explore the critical element that determines an agency's success: its leadership. Suzanna, who has a fascinating career journey from Wall Street to CEO positions and is now teaching leadership at the MBA level, brings decades of insights to the table. She emphasizes that good leadership extends beyond technical skills—it's crucial in a rapidly changing world to develop emotional intelligence, strategic thinking, and communication abilities. Whether you're a seasoned agency owner or new to leadership, Suzanna's revelations will provide you with a roadmap to becoming not just effective managers but dynamic leaders. The conversation explores the difference between management and leadership. Suzanna explains that visionary leadership includes establishing a clear purpose and inspiring your team to support it. They also address communication challenges, promoting a dialogue instead of a monologue to ensure your vision resonates with your employees. Suzanna and Drew will assist you in repeating and reinforcing your vision without allowing it to become mundane.  Don't miss out if you're eager to enhance your agency's direction through dedicated, intentional leadership. By adopting Suzanna's strategies, you'll empower your team, foster a thriving culture, and guide your agency to new heights.  A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: The evolving role of leadership in an ever-changing environment Distinguishing leadership from management and why it matters Encouraging proactive leadership at every level of the organization The significance of a clear and shared vision for agency success How to effectively communicate and reinforce company vision Leveraging leadership styles and tools for improved team dynamics Engaging employees in a two-way dialogue to enhance organizational alignment

Welcome to another insightful episode of Build a Better Agency! This week, host Drew McLellan welcomes Kevin Eikenberry to the show to explore the ever-evolving landscape of leadership. Kevin, a seasoned expert in leadership and learning with over three decades of experience, shares his expertise on how flexibility and adaptability are integral to effective leadership in today's fast-paced and scattered work environments. Drew and Kevin dive into the various challenges agency leaders encounter as they adapt to a world that demands greater flexibility than ever before. They discuss the transition from traditional, rigid work environments to a more fluid and dynamic approach, where leaders must balance consistency and adaptability. Kevin underscores the significance of mindset, skillset, and habits in enhancing leadership abilities. Together, they examine the aspects of leadership that remain constant despite the changing landscape and emphasize the areas where leaders can foster growth. Kevin shares practical strategies for enhancing leadership effectiveness, including fostering intentional and natural interactions with your team, regardless of location or time zone. Whether you lead a team in person or remotely, Kevin's insights provide leaders with the tools to navigate uncertainty and lead with confidence. This episode is filled with tips for creating meaningful connections with your team, promoting a culture of accountability, and continuously improving as a leader.  Don't miss this inspiring episode if you're aiming to elevate your leadership skills and adapt to the demands of leading in a flexible work environment. Whether you're an experienced agency owner or just beginning your journey in leadership, Kevin's wisdom and practical advice will undoubtedly guide you toward becoming a more impactful and flexible leader in your agency settings.  A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Embracing flexible leadership in a post-COVID world Balancing mindset, skill set, and habit set for effective leadership Integrating casual interactions naturally into remote work settings Transitioning from autopilot leadership to intentional adaptation Moving beyond viewing employees' needs as excessive Implementing consistent habit changes for improved leadership Encouraging accountability and feedback within teams

In this episode of Build a Better Agency, Drew McLellan emphasizes the game-changing impact of one-on-one meetings and why agency owners should make them a non-negotiable part of their leadership strategy. Drawing from real-world agency experiences, Drew shares why these meetings serve as an "early warning radar system," helping leaders stay connected to their teams, strengthen workplace culture, and proactively address challenges before they escalate. Drew outlines a structured yet simple framework for these biweekly, 30-minute meetings, highlighting that they are employee-driven—meaning the team member schedules the meeting, completes a structured form in advance, and leads the conversation. He breaks down the essential components of the form, including personal and professional check-ins, growth goal tracking, and opportunities for employees to share concerns, request support, and flag internal or client-related issues. By consistently implementing these meetings, agency owners can reduce day-to-day interruptions, foster deeper engagement, and cultivate a team that is both personally and professionally invested in the agency's success. If you're struggling with employee engagement, culture-building, or leadership visibility, this episode provides a straightforward yet highly effective solution. Tune in to learn how to implement one-on-one meetings, access Drew's updated meeting template, and start seeing immediate benefits in your agency. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: The value of one-on-one meetings for agency growth and employee development Setting professional and agency-focused growth goals for employees Encouraging accountability and preparation among team members Building deeper connections through personal and professional check-ins Enhancing employee support and addressing key issues effectively The importance of employees driving their own career discussions Leveraging one-on-one meetings to spot potential client or internal issues early

In this episode of Build a Better Agency, Drew McLellan sits down with leadership and workplace culture expert Sarah Noll Wilson to unpack one of the biggest challenges agency owners face today—building real culture and connection in a rapidly changing workplace. Drew and Sarah explore how generational shifts, post-pandemic workplace dynamics, and evolving expectations have reshaped the employer-employee relationship. They discuss why traditional leadership approaches—like assuming loyalty comes from salary or benefits alone—no longer work and how agency owners can foster genuine commitment and engagement. Sarah shares eye-opening insights on the importance of psychological safety, trust, and open communication, explaining why employees today expect to be seen, valued, and respected in ways that differ from the past. If you've ever felt frustrated by shifting workforce expectations, struggled to retain top talent, or wondered how to get your team to care as much as you do about the business, this conversation is a must-listen. Tune in to gain practical strategies for fostering a workplace culture that works—not just for you, but for your employees and the success of your agency. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Understanding the generational shift in workplace dynamics  Navigating emotional engagement in leadership roles The importance of aligning agency culture with values  Rethinking how to build trust and commitment  Addressing the challenges of hybrid and remote work environments Experimenting with new strategies for relationship-building Embracing intellectual humility to foster collaboration 

Welcome to the latest episode of Build a Better Agency! In this episode, host Drew McLellan dives into a fascinating yet often overlooked topic that will have you rethinking how you present yourself professionally. Joined by expert guest Morgan Wider, Drew explores the powerful impact of wardrobe choices on your personal and professional brand. Morgan, a seasoned wardrobe stylist with a decade of corporate retail experience, shares invaluable insights on how to ensure your exterior appearance aligns with the professional image you want to project. Whether you've been dressing the same way for years or are looking to make a change, Morgan's advice on intentional dressing and wardrobe curation will make you reconsider your daily attire. They'll discuss practical tips on evaluating your current wardrobe, making intentional color choices, and infusing your outfits with personality through accessories. You'll also hear about common wardrobe mistakes and the small tweaks that can make a big difference in how you're perceived by others. Don't miss this episode if you're ready to take actionable steps towards enhancing your executive presence, boosting your confidence, and standing out in your field in the most authentic way. Trust us—by the end, you'll be walking into your closet with a whole new perspective. Let's get started! A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: The importance of intentionality in how we dress to convey our professional message  Understanding the alignment of personal authenticity with professional attire  How our wardrobe choices influence both self-perception and external perception  The significance of avoiding the default "should" outfits to stand out while respecting professional norms  Practical tips for refining wardrobe choices to maintain authenticity and professionalism Utilizing accessories and small details to add personality and create conversation starters The value of an external perspective to reassess and enhance your professional wardrobe choices 

I wanted to wait until after the holidays to talk about this topic because it's a bit heavier than what we usually talk about on the show. But it's something that Danyel and I have noticed weighing heavily on a lot of you since COVID, and that is agency owner grief.  It's true that many of you have experienced quite a lot of loss and change these past few years  — with the way we work, how well our business is doing, AI, our overall productivity, and so much more. It's a lot of change to handle, and for many of us, we haven't taken the proper time to actually acknowledge our grief and begin to let it go.  But without taking those first steps, that grief will continue to take hold of us and affect us in all aspects of our business — and even our personal lives. Many of you report being restless, unable to focus, depressed, uninspired, feeling heavy, and burnt out. And it's all because we're burning the candle at both ends without taking the time to acknowledge just how much change we've gone through in the past 5 years as agency owners.  So I hope you'll join me and take some time to take stock of everything that's happened from 2020 to now — the good and the bad — and start to recognize just how much we've gone through so we can collectively learn to grieve and begin to let go of the bad to make more room for some good.  A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Why agency owners are struggling mentally and emotionally more than ever Understanding agency owner grief and what's caused it to increase in the past 5 years Addressing agency owner grief The 5 stages of grief and how it manifests for agency owners The trickle effect of grief on agencies How we can begin to identify our grief  Starting the healing process after we identify the source of our grief Seeing post-COVID as an agency renaissance

Are you looking to invest in your leadership skills in 2025? You're in the right place. In this episode, Emma is revealing the top four business books that were instrumental in transforming her team and leadership approach in 2024. These handpicked books focus on management, team-building, accountability, and scaling strategies - offering insights to help you lead effectively and scale smarter. Discover actionable insights to refine your managerial style and strengthen your team dynamic whether you're a founder, a manager, or someone eager to grow. Listen in as Emma shares her favorite titles that cover: How to foster accountability for stronger team performance Proven methods to position your agency as a leader in a competitive market Tactics for building a cohesive, high-performing team with shared purpose and trust And so much more!   Mentioned in this episode:  The Making of a Manager, by Julie Zhuo  Winning with Accountability by Henry Evans Sell with Authority by Drew McLellan and Stephen Woessner All In: How Great Leaders Build Unstoppable Teams by Mike Michalowicz   Connect with Ninety Five Media: Website Instagram  Need Support with Your Podcast? We've got you covered  Book a Strategy Intensive Call with Emma for a custom marketing plan for your brand: strategyintensivecall.co   Book a call to explore our social media management services for your business! ninetyfivemedia.co/book-a-call  

Agency ownership can leave us stressed, burnt out, and sometimes, thinking the grass is greener somewhere else. But when you really sit back and think about it, we have it pretty good — we just lose sight of it sometimes.  So this week, I'm finishing off the year with another solo episode to really sit down and take stock of what it is about agency ownership that makes it so special compared to other jobs. Because no matter how hard things get or how many bad days we have, our jobs are still pretty special and unique.  While you listen to this episode, I want you to reflect on all the things that you could take a little more time to appreciate. Whether that's your employees, your work-life balance, your clients, or even just the type of work you get to do, there's always something we can be grateful for in this industry.  In 2025, let's find a little more joy in our work and give ourselves more credit for all the hard work we already do and will continue to do — because we love it that much. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. In This Episode: We're wired to constantly want to do better Agency owners can lose sight of how much joy is in the industry Agency ownership brings us balance in our personal and professional lives You can still make a decent living as an agency owner even if you have a bad year Getting to work for and with whomever you want Doing the type of creative work you want to do (for the most part) Why you should take some time to reflect on all the joys that come with agency ownership Agencies have more impact than we give ourselves credit for

As we round the bend into the new year, I'm reflecting on the lessons learned from my time as an agency owner and the insights I've gained from working with hundreds of agencies.  While there are too many to count, I'm going to try to boil down my experiences into a few points that I hope you can take into 2025 as you start to think about what you want the next year to look like for your agency. This episode is packed with actionable advice on things like niche selection, service offerings, operational efficiencies, and how to foster a culture of continuous growth and dedication among your staff.  As you go into the new year, ask yourself, How do you want your agency to look different? How do you want your team to look different? How do you want to look different to the world? And how do you want the clients you serve to be different? With those questions in mind, join me as I walk through what my dream agency would look like today and how you can implement these strategies to align your agency for success in 2025.   A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. In This Episode: The most profitable size of an agency Dividing in-office work and at-home work for a hybrid agency The importance of having in-house accounts service people who are dedicated to growing the agency Using freelancers and contractors to support a smaller team of in-house creatives The continued importance of running the agency by the numbers for maximum profitability Having one-on-ones to check in with agency employees and clients Narrowing down your niche to get to that 20% profitability Building a recession-proof agency Getting more thoughtful about what the agency owner role looks like and hiring roles to support it Getting smart about paying yourself  Team off-sites and investing in professional development

Many agency owners reported in 2024 that one of the best things about their agencies are their employees. Despite continued biz dev struggles and slow sales cycles, agency owners have had a hard time shrinking their teams because they just love them that much. So, this week, let's talk about some of the ways we can think about agency employee compensation more holistically to show them our gratitude and continued support. Agencies continue to be really competitive environments, and many of our best employees will inevitably be approached by recruiters and other agencies at some point in their careers. And the best way to keep them around is through their compensation packages. But these shouldn't just be about high salaries and bonuses. While important, that's just the tip of the iceberg in showing our gratitude and support to our employees. In fact, the most impactful forms of compensation come from deeply knowing and respecting your team, and showing your personalized gratitude for their efforts and commitment to your agency. Join me on this week's solocast to dig a little deeper in how we can really get thoughtful about how we compensate our employees, not just with more money, but investing in their continued growth and your personal relationship with them. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. In This Episode: Looking at agency employee compensation not as an obligation, but something you do out of gratitude Using raises as a reward for employees adding more value to the agency Giving bonuses or profit sharing to celebrate hitting monthly or quarterly goals as a team How a good benefits package gives you a competitive advantage against other agencies Personalized perks and thank-yous to reward individuals go a long way How to know when one of your employees has gone above and beyond Spending time getting to know your employees and caring for those personal relationships Develop your compensation philosophy based on your goals and values

Your business should serve your lifestyle — not the other way around. Many agency owners got into the industry because it affords them a lifestyle and freedom most people dream of. But it's easy to lose sight of that when the business gets overwhelming and we fall into agency owner fatigue. For this week's solocast, I want to do a deep dive into one of the ways we help agency owners sort out this fatigue and get back on the right track to achieving their goals and dreams — the agency owner life plan. This plan is a free tool to help agency owners sit with their goals, dreams, aspirations, and legacies and write them down so they feel more tangible and achievable. These legacies don't have to be lofty, lifelong goals but can be smaller goals that we can start working toward today. Whether you have a charity you'd like to work with or just want to focus on spending more time with your family, you can use your agency (along with the agency owner life plan) to help you achieve these goals step by step. So if you're feeling burnt out, fatigued, or discouraged, this episode will help you sort out your dreams and desires and help you get back to using the agency to fuel your legacies. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. In This Episode: 3 things that drive agency owner fatigue Our business should serve our life, not the other way around The agency owner life plan Finding 5 legacies you want to leave in your lifetime Uncovering 3 things you can do this year to start working toward your legacies Choosing 5 people you want to spend more time with to help you achieve your goals How to use the agency to support you in accomplishing your goals

In this episode of The Sales Leadership Show, Phil Gerbyshak is joined by two powerhouse leaders in the agency space—Jason Kramer, founder of Cultivize, and Drew McLellan, CEO of the Agency Management Institute. They dive deep into the strategies that agencies can use to grow, streamline their operations, and foster better client relationships. Both guests share their wisdom on the evolving landscape of digital marketing and sales, with actionable insights for agency owners looking to stay ahead of the curve.Key Topics Covered:* Building and Scaling Agencies:* Jason shares insights into how agencies can leverage marketing automation to enhance client engagement and grow their business.* Drew discusses the importance of operational efficiency and how agencies can better structure themselves to scale sustainably.* Client Retention and Relationships:* Both guests highlight the critical role of client relationships in sustaining long-term success, offering tips for creating deeper connections and trust.* Technology and Tools for Growth:* Jason emphasizes the importance of choosing the right technology stack and offers advice on how agencies can effectively integrate automation tools to drive growth.* Drew touches on the balance between using technology and maintaining a personal touch in client interactions.Listen in above or enjoy the video below. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyaf.substack.com/subscribe

Every agency should be able to run at 20% profitability on a consistent basis. But as agency owners, sometimes we get in our own way and become the bottleneck to our agency growth. For this week's solocast, I'm breaking down the five biggest things agency owners do to stifle their agency's growth. Whether it's not being able to get out of the day-to-day operations, or not trusting what your numbers are telling you, these are all things most agency owners encounter at least once while growing and scaling the business. The good news — you're not alone. These five issues are very common. The bad news — they can be a tough pill to swallow and difficult to course correct once you realize what's happening. This episode will give you a detailed guide to recognizing these common patterns and behaviors for agency owners and what to do to get your agency back on the path to growth and profitability. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. In This Episode: Why doing everything your way won't work forever The impact of this on agency growth and profitability The importance of documenting SOPs and systems and processes and updating them regularly How to start documenting SOPs if you don't do this already Why serving clients instead of the agency will leave you stuck The 3 S's of growing an agency Why you need to listen to what your numbers (AGI) are telling you Prioritizing performance-based growth over selling on personality or individual reputation

As agency owners, one of the things we fundamentally get wrong in sales is how heavily trust plays a role in the process. We're selling intangible services and solutions to people with a high price tag, and we expect prospects to trust that we'll deliver on our promises. It's a risky proposition, especially for the ones putting their trust (and wallets) in our hands. This week, I'm sharing how agency owners can earn and leverage their trust with client referrals to increase sales. When you sit back and watch the sales come in simply because someone knows, likes, and trusts you enough to recommend you to others, it's a beautiful thing. I'll share the four things we need in any sales process: the etiquette of social proof and earning client referrals, and how to ethically become part of a community without becoming a billboard for your agency. When you earn people's trust by being genuinely helpful, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to do business with, you won't have to lift a finger to make a sale. For 30+ years, Drew McLellan has been in the advertising industry. He started his career at Y&R, worked in boutique-sized agencies, and then started his own (which he still owns and runs) agency in 1995. Additionally, Drew owns and leads the Agency Management Institute, which advises hundreds of small to mid-sized agencies on how to grow their agency and its profitability through agency owner peer groups, consulting, coaching, workshops and more. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. In This Episode: Putting ourselves in the shoes of the buyers The role of psychological discomfort and decision fatigue in the buying process 4 things we need in any sales process to be successful The pros and cons of waiting on referrals The etiquette behind social proof and referrals What does it mean to belong? What it takes to earn someone's trust enough to earn a referral from them

For this episode of Sell With Authority, we're shaking things up a bit. Instead of our usual format — I've got something special in store for you. We're diving into an episode I recorded with Drew McLellan for his Build a Better Agency Podcast. Why this twist, you might wonder? There are a few reasons I'm excited to share with you. But before we dive in — have you heard about our upcoming July Intensive? Three times a year — we get our Predictive clients together on Zoom. We call it the “2-day Intensive.” We slice apart our best strategies for helping agencies sell more of what they do — and we break everything down in full transparency so you can install it into your agency. I know I'm biased — but holy bananas — each Intensive is off-the-charts awesome. Our next “Intensive” is Tuesday & Wednesday, July 30th & 31st, from 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon Central (on Zoom). Our goal for the July Intensive is to help you sell more of what you do. We have 30 guest passes available. Would you like to join us? And here's the magic. The Intensive is a private client-only event. That means no selling. No pitching. You just get to be one of us. If that sounds helpful — just send me an email at stephen@predictiveroi.com with the word “ONWARD,” and I'll get in touch with the full details, calendar invites, and Zoom links. Okay — now for the twist with today's episode. Jody Sutter of The Sutter Company For this episode — I'm sharing the full recording of a recent LinkedIn Live that I did alongside Jody Sutter. Jody invited me — and I was like — Holy Bananas, yes!! And here's the thing — from the outside looking in — someone might look at Jody's company and Predictive as competitors — and yet — we share content, and support each other any way we can — because we both want the same thing for agency owners — for them to win more business. So we're going to play the entire LNKD Live recording here inside this episode. If you want to watch the video version of it – just go here. Enjoy. Hope you find it helpful. What you will learn in this episode is: How building an authority position can help you sell more of what you do. How you can make time to create or generate all that content. How long will it take before you see traction in your niche and results. How to easily get past the obstacle of thinking “What if I don't have anything interesting to say?” Download our Free Frameworks to Help You Sell More of What You Do: Get the WHO Framework™: Replace your dry sales pipeline with a steady stream of right-fit clients. Get the WHAT Framework™: Design your irresistible offer and sell it for a premium-priced fee. Get the HOW Framework™: Put a proven sales process into place and close 80% of your proposals. Get the How You Help Framework™: Use this framework to make yourself an easy YES! for clients. Resources: Website: www.predictiveroi.com Visit our newly expanded Resource Library Join us in our free How to Fill Your Sales Pipeline Facebook Group Stephen's LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/stephenwoessner/ Order your free paperback or Kindle copy of our Book: Sell with Authority

In this episode of "The ChatGPT Experiment," Cary Weston sits down with Drew McClellan, CEO of Agency Management Institute, to discuss the crucial role of AI in the advertising industry. Recorded in the vibrant French Quarter of New Orleans, this conversation delves into how agencies can embrace AI tools like ChatGPT to enhance their operations, compete effectively, and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market. Whether you're a small business owner or part of a large agency, this episode offers valuable insights on integrating AI to boost efficiency and innovation. Step 2: Main Topics Covered The impact of AI on the advertising industry. Approaching AI with a mindset of abundance vs. scarcity. Practical examples of AI applications in small and large agencies. The importance of experimentation and curiosity with AI tools. Step 3: Key Insights AI as an Equalizer: Smaller agencies can leverage AI to level the playing field with larger competitors by improving efficiency and expanding capabilities. Mindset Matters: Agencies that adopt an abundance mindset view AI as an opportunity for growth and innovation, while those with a scarcity mindset may fall behind. Experimentation is Key: The current stage of AI development is about exploring possibilities and experimenting with tools like ChatGPT to discover new ways to solve problems and enhance business operations. Step 4: Episode Index [00:00:00] Introduction: Cary introduces the episode and guest, Drew McClellan. [00:00:23] Conversation Start: Discussing the importance of integrating AI in agency toolsets. [00:02:00] AI in the Creative Industry: How AI is changing the business side of creative agencies. [00:03:00] Meeting Drew McClellan: Background on Drew and the Agency Management Institute. [00:05:00] Benefits of AMI Membership: Personal testimonials and the value of finding a business tribe. [00:08:15] AI as a Threat or Opportunity: Differing perspectives on AI within the industry. [00:12:00] Specific AI Applications: Examples of how small and large agencies are using ChatGPT. [00:20:00] Experimenting with AI: Encouraging businesses to explore and play with AI tools. [00:25:00] Practical Use Cases: Real-world applications of ChatGPT for hiring and difficult conversations. [00:36:00] Expanding Possibilities with AI: Final thoughts on the importance of curiosity and experimentation. Step 5: About The Guest Drew McClellan is the CEO and co-owner of Agency Management Institute, which serves advertising, marketing, PR, and media buying agencies worldwide. He helps agencies run their businesses more effectively by providing tools, resources, and support. Drew is recognized as one of the top voices in marketing and branding and has been featured in major publications like Entrepreneur, New York Times, Forbes, and Wall Street Journal. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Cary is a seasoned marketing professional and partner in the Bangor, Maine-based advertising and marketing firm Sutherland Weston. He is a certified “They Ask You Answer” coach – a sales and marketing framework developed by Marcus Sheridan designed to help companies stand out as the voice of authority in their industry and drive measurable sales results. His specialties lie in developing practical and tactical strategies to help businesses overcome sales and marketing challenges. Cary is available for coaching, consulting, and strategy engagement with businesses and not-for-profit organizations. Connect with Cary: Podcast Website: www.ChatGPTExperiment.com Agency Website: www.SutherlandWeston.com LinkedIn: Cary Weston LINKEDIN NEWSLETTER The Chat GPT Experiment is also a LinkedIn Newsletter and you can find it here: LinkedIn Newsletter MUSIC CREDITS The instrumental music used in this podcast is called “Curious” by Podington Bear. You can contact the artist here: Podington Bear

The agency space has seen its fair share of ups and downs over the past several years.  However, as the industry landscape has changed, agencies have also adapted to meet their clients' needs and what they need to stay afloat. Drew McLellan is no stranger to the changes in the industry and is here today to talk about the state of the agency industry in 2024, shifting your agency model to emphasize thought leadership and much more. This week, episode 217 of The Digital Agency Growth Podcast is about building trust and scaling through thought leadership!Watch our latest video training, How to Take Charge of Your Agency's Future Revenue. During this training, you'll learn how we get qualified appointments every week using tasteful and highly targeted email outreach.In this episode of The Digital Agency Growth Podcast, Drew McLellan discusses the importance of building trust with prospective clients long before a sale and actionable steps you can take right now to establish your agency as a thought leader in your space. Drew McLellan has worked in advertising for 30+ years and started his own agency, McLellan Marketing Group in 1995 after a five-year stint at Y&R and still actively runs the agency.  He spends the lion's share of his time running Agency Management Institute (AMI), which he also owns. AMI serves thousands of agencies small to mid-sized agencies (advertising, digital, marketing, media and PR) every year, so they can increase their AGI, attract better clients and employees, mitigate the risks of being self-employed in a such volatile business and best of all — let the agency owner actually enjoy the perks of agency ownership.In this episode, Dan and Drew discuss the following:Finding the advantages of being an agency owner.The importance of scalability and balance in agency growth.Building trust with potential clients long before making the sale.AI's usefulness for data analysis in agencies, but not for strategy.Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to follow, rate and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!Learn more about The Digitial Agency Growth Podcast at https://www.salesschema.com/podcast/ and our Video training at http://salesschema.com/takecharge CONNECT WITH DREW MCLELLAN:Agency Management InstituteLinkedInX (formerly Twitter)WebsiteCONNECT WITH DAN ENGLANDER:LinkedInSales SchemaLINKS MENTIONED:Sell With Authority: Own and Monetize Your Agency's Authority Position Watch our latest video training, How to Take Charge of Your Agency's Future Revenue. During this training, you'll learn how we get qualified appointments every week using tasteful and highly targeted email outreach.

For this episode of Sell With Authority, we're shaking things up a bit. Instead of our usual format — I've got something special in store for you. We're diving into an episode I recorded with Drew McLellan for his Build a Better Agency Podcast. Why this twist, you might wonder? There are a few reasons I'm excited to share with you. First off — Drew and I delved deep into the topic of niche, but from a perspective that might surprise you. We explored how Predictive pivoted its niche a few years back, the reasons behind it, and, candidly, how we got a bit too comfortable in our previous niche. Secondly — I believe the insights we share about building community and adding value will resonate with you, especially if you attended Day 1 of our March Intensive, where community was at the forefront. And third — buckle up for some powerful takeaways from Drew's keynote at the Build a Better Agency Summit. He discusses steering our agencies out of safe harbors, embracing the storm, and why those risks we fear might not be risks at all. Drew's wisdom adds a brilliant layer to the conversation. If you take and apply what we talk about in this episode — you're going to be in a much better position to roar through 2024 by selling more of what you do. What you will learn in this episode is: Why breaking away from the playbook and charting a new course could be the right strategic move for your agency How to identify the client types you excel at serving, potentially uncovering your agency's new niche in the process How to redefine your agency's approach and positioning Why your agency niche can establish you as the authority on how to become “The Authority” The pivotal role of cultivating a community of eager learners, facilitating more streamlined sales processes Resources: Website: www.predictiveroi.com Visit our newly expanded Resource Library Join us in our free How to Fill Your Sales Pipeline Facebook Group Stephen's LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/stephenwoessner/ Order your free paperback or Kindle copy of our Book: Sell with Authority Build a Better Agency Summit 2024: https://agencymanagementinstitute.com/babasummit/

Welcome to the Sell with Authority Podcast – I'm Stephen Woessner, CEO of Predictive ROI. If we happen to be meeting for the first time — Predictive ROI helps agency owners and their teams sell more of what they do…typically for a higher fee. We do that by helping our clients build an authority position in the niche they've decided to serve — and then — monetize that position by creating a steady stream of right-fit prospects flowing into their sales pipeline. If learning proven strategies, tactics, and best practices to help you sell more of what you do aligns with where you want to take your agency — you're in the right place. Today's episode is going to be a solocast—just you and me. We'll explore a topic at both a high level and an eye level so you and your team can take it and apply it. The goal is to answer the question, “How do you get it all done?” Back when Drew McLellan, CEO of Agency Management Institute, and I decided to write our Sell with Authority book — we knew we needed to include some very practical and tactical recipes and guides on how to get all the work done. And I will tell you — when he and I teach our “Build and Nurture Your Sales Funnel” workshop — we spend a chunk of time on Day 2 helping attendees calendar and map out who in the shop is going to do all of the work so their plan doesn't fall apart when they get back home. For today's solocast, I'm going to take you behind the curtain into Appendices A and B in the back of our Sell with Authority book and share more about how we get it all done here at Predictive so you can take the same recipes and apply them to your shop. What you will learn in this episode is: How and why the WHO Framework and Transformational Triangle should serve as the foundation of your content strategy How to decide which form of cornerstone content is right for your gifts and talents How to leverage the cornerstone content to best grow your email list How do you decide on your cobblestones (they always come off the cornerstone, and the recipes in Appendix A will help) and the right cadence How to apply advanced strategies like knitting together your cobblestones to create a new and different cornerstone  

Online communities are quickly becoming one of the most powerful biz dev tools out there, but there's etiquette to starting and maintaining one. It's not for everyone, but for those who are ready, an online community could be your ticket to selling without ever having to actually sell. This week, we're continuing the conversation about online communities vs. online audiences, and the vast benefits they can offer to agency owners. Now that we've established the differences between an audience and a community, it's time to ask ourselves deeper questions about why and how we should start one. The main purpose of starting an online community shouldn't be selling or profiting from its members. But if you're in it to genuinely help others and create an avenue for collective thought leadership and connection, increased sales are just part of the benefits. If you think starting an online community could be the right move for your agency, tune in to this week's episode of Build a Better Agency. For 30+ years, Drew McLellan has been in the advertising industry. He started his career at Y&R, worked in boutique-sized agencies, and then started his own (which he still owns and runs) agency in 1995. Additionally, Drew owns and leads the Agency Management Institute, which advises hundreds of small to mid-sized agencies on how to grow their agency and its profitability through agency owner peer groups, consulting, coaching, workshops and more. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. In This Episode: How to start an online community (who, what, where, why) Are you starting a community for the right reasons? Why you should expect nothing in return from online communities Identifying your target audience What a community leader should provide to community members, and vice versa The main difference between a community and an audience 3 questions to ask yourself before creating a community Consistency wins over complexity in online community building How to benefit from a community without starting one yourself Using online communities as a powerful biz dev tool Qualifying your community members

Humans are hardwired to belong, and the desire to be a part of something bigger than ourselves is in our blood. Whether we connect over shared values, a favorite sports team, a hobby, or even just from living near one another, we can find community and belonging all around us. These days, many of us are finding community online through social media and spreading our social nets wider than ever. This leaves a huge opportunity for agency leaders to build their own online communities to help others learn and share their experiences about business leadership, entrepreneurship, or any form of thought leadership in which they excel. Online communities should, first and foremost, be a way to bring people together with shared goals and interests, but the benefits reach far beyond that. With enough time and care, they can become robust sales and networking tools that do the prospecting work for you. But it's not for everyone, and that's ok. In this week's solocast, I'm doing a deep dive into the ins and outs of creating online communities, building an audience online, and how to make sure you're doing it all for the right reasons. With enough patience, online community building could become your agency's secret sales weapon that provides perks and benefits for the people in it. For 30+ years, Drew McLellan has been in the advertising industry. He started his career at Y&R, worked in boutique-sized agencies, and then started his own (which he still owns and runs) agency in 1995. Additionally, Drew owns and leads the Agency Management Institute, which advises hundreds of small to mid-sized agencies on how to grow their agency and its profitability through agency owner peer groups, consulting, coaching, workshops and more. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. In This Episode: What is a community, and how does it relate to work? The difference between an audience and a community Online communities do the selling for you B2B brands have less competition in creating online communities Asking yourself the who, what, where, and why before starting a community How communities make biz dev easier for agencies Being a safe harbor for people as a community leader Community building isn't for everyone 3 questions to ask yourself to determine if you should build a community or an audience How to build an online community and spread the word about it Having a community is a long game — have a growth plan

To celebrate our 100th episode, I am excited to welcome our guest expert, Drew McLellan, to the Sell With Authority podcast. This is Drew's second time on the show and it seems fitting to have him mark this milestone. He is not only my most trusted business advisor — but he's also been my best friend in the world for the better part of a decade. Drew is the CEO of Agency Management Institute — which advises hundreds of small to mid-sized agencies on how to grow their agency and its profitability – and of McLellan Marketing Group. He walks the walk — and he pours the best of what he's got into his community. In this episode, we focus our attention on how to build a community around the niche you want to serve. In our conversation, we talk through how hosting a live event can be an exceptional strategy for growing your audience — and being helpful. Drew shines a light on how to become a leader in the community by coming from a place of great love and a true commitment to serve. What you will learn in this episode: Why Drew empowers agency owners to find right-fit clients by niching down How to build a community around the niche you want you want to serve and what you want to teach The power of hosting live events as a strategy for audience growth and support How to create a successful conference without losing your house The building blocks of the Build a Better Agency Summit Resources: Email: drew@agencymanagementinstitute.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/drewmclellan Website: https://agencymanagementinstitute.com/ Episode 2 of Sell With Authority: How to Sell with Authority, with Drew McLellan Additional Resources: Website: www.predictiveroi.com Visit our newly expanded Resource Library Join us in our free How to Fill Your Sales Pipeline Facebook Group

Are you ready to take your agency to the next level? Join us as we chat with Drew McLellan, the king of agencies, about how to master your agency niche for maximum profit. Learn about the shifts in the industry over the years, from the rise of websites to the current focus on digital marketing. Discover the three ways to specialize your agency and find out why narrowing your focus is the key to long-term success. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow your existing agency, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Don't miss out - subscribe now and become a niche expert! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mentors/support

If there's one word that will send any agency owner or employee running for the hills, it's timesheets. Although one of the most universally disliked words in the agency world, timesheets are still the number one way to detect and diagnose problems within the agency before they become catastrophes. Essentially, they're your best friend whether you like it or not. Timesheets, especially when completed daily by all agency employees (including the agency owner), will give you invaluable data about your agency's day-to-day operations and where there's room for improvement. For agency owners, daily timesheets will show you inefficiencies, areas where more staffing is needed, needs for more training, and so much more. For agency employees, this is your ticket to job security, bonuses, promotions, and recognition for excellent work. Tune in to learn more about why daily timesheets are essential for agency owners and employees and how to get everyone on board with the practice this year. For 30+ years, Drew McLellan has been in the advertising industry. He started his career at Y&R, worked in boutique-sized agencies, and then started his own (which he still owns and runs) agency in 1995. Additionally, Drew owns and leads the Agency Management Institute, which advises hundreds of small to mid-sized agencies on how to grow their agency and its profitability through agency owner peer groups, consulting, coaching, workshops and more. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. In This Episode: Why early detection matters for agency operations The diagnostic warning signs that your agency isn't running effectively What daily timesheets show us about our agency How timesheets and time-tracking metrics can boost our profitability Why do them daily vs. weekly? Why timesheets are a good thing and help agency employees defend themselves How to get your team on board

We're talking about Service Design. What is it, and how is it different from what we'd normally consider user experience design? Drew McLellan talks to expert Lou Downe to find out.

There's no other way to spin it — agency owners had it rough in 2023. And while we spent all year going over the struggles of agency ownership, one universal positive kept coming up with everyone. Your teams are better than ever, and you want to learn how to keep your agency employees happy, so they stick around. So this week, we're turning to some of our Agency Edge research to dive into what agency employees said are the key factors that keep them happy and willing to stick around for the long haul. While the assumption is that you're already fairly compensating them and creating a fair and inclusive workplace, there are some less obvious things that really matter to agency employees. They could even be the difference between a star player staying for 10 to 15 years instead of three or four. This episode will teach you the dos and don'ts of increasing employee retention and really going above and beyond to help your teams feel valued and cared for. It's got a lot of valuable tips and tricks, so if you're curious about how to keep your agency employees satisfied, don't miss out on this episode. For 30+ years, Drew McLellan has been in the advertising industry. He started his career at Y&R, worked in boutique-sized agencies, and then started his own (which he still owns and runs) agency in 1995. Additionally, Drew owns and leads the Agency Management Institute, which advises hundreds of small to mid-sized agencies on how to grow their agency and its profitability through agency owner peer groups, consulting, coaching, workshops and more. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. In This Episode: Recognizing that not every agency employee will want to stick around forever, and it's not personal The one thing you should not do to earn employee loyalty Why offering equity or partnership in the company is almost always a bad idea What agency employees actually want from agency owners Setting quarterly growth goals for employees Creating space to truly get to know your people beyond work Rewarding employees for their effort fairly, but not equally Getting agency employees involved in deciding their own perks for excellent work Simply ask your employees what will make them stay Get personal and thoughtful with your praise

With your business, clients and the world changing so fast around you, it can be tough to know what your growth goals should be--or how to even approach setting them in the first place.Thankfully, Drew McLellan, CEO of the Agency Management Institute (and agency vet himself), joins the podcast today to break down the numbers in a simple formula you can use to set attainable goals in any market. In today's episode you'll learn:How to determine which of the 5 phases of agency maturity you're in todayWhy you shouldn't set your goals based on top-line revenue alone (and how to use AGI instead)How to ideally split your AGI (Adjust Gross Income) between Loaded Salaries, Overhead, and ProfitResources mentioned in today's conversation:Connect with Drew on LinkedInWatch the video replay (complete with slide deck) of this conversation: Growing Your Agency Too Fast or Not Fast EnoughWant to get more content to support your agency life? Subscribe to the Agency Life newsletter, check out past episodes & find more content at teamwork.com/agencylife. This podcast is brought to you by Teamwork.com.

2023 is quickly coming to a close, so it's time for agency owners to start thinking about the year ahead to come up with their 2024 game plan. With holiday hibernation quickly approaching for most agency owners, this is the perfect time to reflect on 2023 and start thinking about what we want to improve for 2024. Many of us are coming out of a less-than-ideal year that threw us a lot of curveballs. So, if this year wasn't your year, what game plan can you develop to make 2024 even better? This episode is packed with a ton of action items that will set you on the path to getting your agency on the right track as soon as you're back from the holidays. Whether you're looking to tighten up your budget, grow your existing clients, reevaluate your team, or even find more time to do something memorable this year, this episode has everything you need to do to make your game plan and stick to it. For 30+ years, Drew McLellan has been in the advertising industry. He started his career at Y&R, worked in boutique-sized agencies, and then started his own (which he still owns and runs) agency in 1995. Additionally, Drew owns and leads the Agency Management Institute, which advises hundreds of small to mid-sized agencies on how to grow their agency and its profitability through agency owner peer groups, consulting, coaching, workshops and more. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. In This Episode: Making a game plan aligned with the legacy you want to leave Creating a budget and aligning your expenses to it Connecting better with your team to help them grow Have a career path for every position Improving your leadership team, including the agency owner Identifying A, B, C, and D players Having a growth plan for existing clients Finding your niche and owning it How will you show your clients and team you appreciate them? What is one thing that would make 2024 unbelievable for you?

CEO of Agency Management Institute Drew McLellan brings over thirty years of expertise to dive deep into how agencies are finding success in the current economic climate by deploying AI in inventive ways. 

Many agency owners want to see 20% growth (or more) year over year while staying profitable. This goal isn't entirely unrealistic, but the bigger you get, the harder it is to maintain such impressive numbers if you're not investing resources in the right things to support that growth. For this week's solocast, I have some homework for you to do to help you see if you're prepared to meet your growth goals in 2024. Don't worry; we will do it together while I walk you through how to crunch the numbers step-by-step. If you want to follow along, grab your P&L statement and our growth goal worksheet linked below, and get ready to do some math. By the end of this episode, you'll have a much clearer picture of where your agency is at financially and what level of growth you can support next year based on the numbers we calculate today. For 30+ years, Drew McLellan has been in the advertising industry. He started his career at Y&R, worked in boutique-sized agencies, and then started his own (which he still owns and runs) agency in 1995. Additionally, Drew owns and leads the Agency Management Institute, which advises hundreds of small to mid-sized agencies on how to grow their agency and its profitability through agency owner peer groups, consulting, coaching, workshops and more. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. In This Episode: The basics of staying at 20% profit while doubling in size The mistakes we often make when setting end-of-year growth goals How to set a healthy growth goal based on your agency stats Why attrition affects your growth goal, and how much Emphasizing the role AEs play in growing clients What your agency needs if you plan to grow more than 15% year over year Which tough decisions agency owners need to make to hit growth goals The importance of niching down to boost growth

Lately, agency owners and leaders have been hitting their heads against a biz dev brick wall. With increased sales cycles, difficulty getting clients to start projects, tightened budgets, and more, it seems like we're in a cycle of never-ending struggle. Even if the future looks bleak, there are always more things that can be done and new strategies to try to help push through a difficult time. That's why now more than ever, it's critical for agency owners and leaders to track certain metrics to ensure you'll end 2023 in the black, even as everyone is seemingly tightening their belts. This week, I'm sharing five metrics you should be tracking with your teams to ensure you're making the right strategic decisions during heightened hardship. From taking a closer look at your numbers to ensuring client satisfaction, we have the tools to help you end the year in the black against all odds. For 30+ years, Drew McLellan has been in the advertising industry. He started his career at Y&R, worked in boutique-sized agencies, and then started his own (which he still owns and runs) agency in 1995. Additionally, Drew owns and leads the Agency Management Institute, which advises hundreds of small to mid-sized agencies on how to grow their agency and its profitability through agency owner peer groups, consulting, coaching, workshops and more. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. In This Episode: Tracking your 55-25-20 AGI metrics more closely Deciding where to move money around to keep good employees Doubling down on biz dev efforts Getting your existing clients to spend more money on you Why AEs should be helping to grow the existing client base Why client satisfaction scores are more critical than ever Good employee retention sends a positive message to customers

Does your agency truly understand your clients' needs? Are you proactive about learning their business? Is your team constantly looking for new, innovative solutions? What can you do to earn clients' trust to retain and even upsell them? Today's guest has been an agency owner for 30 years and knows the business well. He understands which questions to ask to gain clients' trust and teaches other agency owners to do the same. He'll reveal what clients are looking for in an agency according to a recent survey. Drew McLellan owns Agency Management Institute, which serves small to mid-scale agencies helping them grow. He's on the show sharing insight from a recent survey. Drew's agency runs an annual survey where agency clients respond to focused questions that give agencies some insight into what they can improve to have a better relationship with them. This year, the survey focused on agencies' struggles to grow their existing book of business. In this episode, we'll discuss: What do clients think about agencies? 4 things you can do to build better relationships with clients. 2 big mistakes you should avoid with clients.   Subscribe Apple | Spotify | iHeart Radio | Stitcher | Radio FM Sponsors and Resources E2M Solutions: Today's episode of the Smart Agency Masterclass is sponsored by E2M Solutions, a web design, and development agency that has provided white-label services for the past 10 years to agencies all over the world. Check out e2msolutions.com/smartagency and get 10% off for the first three months of service.   What Do Clients Think About Their Agency Relationship? Most agency owners are great when it comes to their services but don't have the tools to run a business profitably. Having run an agency for thirty years, Drew knows the industry well and now focuses on helping them. His agency runs an annual research piece called the Agency Edge. In its ten-year history, they've mostly talked to people who hire agencies, as was the case this year. The central theme this year was agencies' struggles to grow their existing book of business. Clients are taking a longer time to hire agencies, and even once they've hired them, they're slow to assign a first project. So how to get more from the clients you already have? Basically, the gist of the research was to get respondents to reveal how, when, and where they give an agency more money. The results were fascinating -- most fell into one of three categories: The ideal agency client: This is the client we all want to have. They want their agency at the table talking about strategy and truly believe they couldn't run their business as well without the agency. The client looking for a specialist: This was the largest group, accounting for over 45% of the respondents. These are businesses that are pretty happy with their in-house team but are in need of extra sets of hands and depths of expertise in certain areas. They expect the agency to come in and partner with their team. They don't expect them to get in on big-picture strategy. The client who thinks everything's too expensive: This was fortunately the smallest group. These clients see agencies as a necessary evil that is too expensive. If they could avoid giving an agency more money, they will choose to do that. Naturally, the research focused on the first two groups, which are the ones likely to spend more money on agencies. What Do Clients Really Want From Their Agency? No matter the different topics they've covered over the years, Drew and his team keep finding these same groups. The undesirable clients who see agencies as money-sucking machines are thankfully always the minority. However, Drew does note this was the first year where that minority came off very strongly about their views. This might be an indication that brand leaders are becoming more leery about partnerships. Moreover, there are now more agencies out there than ever before, which means there are more bad agencies too. With more people out there who don't know how to market and adequately provide a service, it drowns out the good ones. This creates a rejection of the concept of agency, which leads to businesses trying to avoid that label. In terms of how to identify these client categories, they're actually spread across the board. Businesses that want agencies as a partner could be big brands or small startups. Overall, clients want an agency partner who really tries to understand their business. Basically, they want the agency to care enough about their business to come up with good ideas; even if those ideas don't necessarily impact the agency. This could be a problem when account people are order takers who don't understand the clients' business and don't know which questions to ask to have insights into their business problems. 4 Things You Can Do to Build Better Relationships With Clients Learn more. Based on survey responses, agency owners could invest more time and energy learning how their clients do their work. This can mean a number of things like case studies or helping your client do customer research. Yes, this is a huge time investment on the agency's part. However, failing in-depth understanding relegates you to an order-taker role by your own doing. Meet your clients. Even if you're a virtual agency you should get out there and meet your clients in person, especially in the onboarding process. There's still no substitute for face time in this post-pandemic era with so many ways to connect virtually. It's hard to develop more than surface-level trust when you've never even been in the same room as that person. Ask more questions. Drew believes agency owners tend to stop themselves from asking questions. They assume the client knows their business well, so if they say they want an app or a tradeshow booth, all too often the answer is “Okay, we'll do that for you”. It's okay to at least ask simple questions like: "Why?" or "Is there a better way to spend that budget?" Just dig a bit into the reasons behind what they're asking. More than half the time they need something, but are wrong about what that something is. Be proactive. Clients want their agencies to be proactive and not wait around for them to place an order. Many agencies shy away from this because it feels pushy; however, the message that came across loud and clear is that clients will give agencies more money when agencies give them a good reason to spend more money. 2 Big Mistakes Some Agencies Make with Clients Out of all the groups, it was especially important for the second one – clients looking for a specialist –to find an agency that respects their team. It's important to understand the ecosystem of how the business works, who's on the team, and where you can lend a hand. Overall, the message was “don't overstep your bounds”. Clients were clear about how much they dislike agencies that come in and try to prove they're smarter than the internal team. Collaboration will get you better results because these companies think highly of their internal team. This also goes for getting into a meeting and immediately starting to use technical terminology. You obviously want clients to think you're smart but you won't get far by making them feel dumb. Big Takeaways: More Time with Agency Owners and Being Assertive Still focusing on the first two groups, it's important to mention these clients wanted more interaction with the agency owner. This doesn't necessarily mean the agency owner will be working on their business on a day-to-day basis. It just means they want the agency owner to check in and know what the team is doing and can be a sounding board for them. Overall, the big takeaway from the survey is that clients are open to agencies being more assertive in bringing more ideas to clients. They want those ideas and most of them do have more money to give to agencies and are eager to do so if they demonstrate they really understand their business. Do You Want to Transform Your Agency from a Liability to an Asset? If you want to be around amazing agency owners that can see what you may not be able to see and help you grow your agency, go to Agency Mastery 360.  Our agency growth program helps you take a 360-degree view of your agency and gain mastery of the 3 pillar systems (attract, convert, scale) so you can create predictability, wealth, and freedom.

The idea of agency culture has been on my mind a lot lately, especially now that we're all settling into new post-covid workplace structures. Without as much face time in an office, many of you are starting to wonder how to continue cultivating a healthy workplace environment for your employees over video calls and Slack channels. For this week's solocast, I'm sharing what research shows are the four core pillars of a healthy agency culture that will ensure your employees feel seen, heard, safe, and valued. It's not just about proximity and having office parties or team outings anymore. And as agency leaders, it's essential that we lead by example in creating the right environment for our teams to thrive. If you can weave these four concepts into how you run your agency and build up your teams, your agency will be set up for success, no matter if you're in the office, fully remote, or somewhere in between. For 30+ years, Drew McLellan has been in the advertising industry. He started his career at Y&R, worked in boutique-sized agencies, and then started his own (which he still owns and runs) agency in 1995. Additionally, Drew owns and leads the Agency Management Institute, which advises hundreds of small to mid-sized agencies on how to grow their agency and its profitability through agency owner peer groups, consulting, coaching, workshops and more. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Thinking about agency culture differently Why agency owners must lead the charge in creating a healthy agency culture Creating an environment of inclusivity for all team members Leading with love and being curious about your people Creating learning opportunities for yourself and the team Encouraging quarterly growth goals for employees Celebrating contributions and identifying employee strengths Leaving space for employees to challenge the status quo Making it ok for people to disagree respectfully

It's that time of year again — we're going over the top agency trends we're noticing so far in 2023 and going into 2024. A lot has changed since the last time we went over the data, which means we have a ton of information that you'll hopefully find valuable and can use as a compass for where to lead your agency through the rest of the year heading into 2024. As we exit the pandemic era and move into the AI era, there's a lot to consider in how agencies function regarding what our clients want, how fast our sales cycle moves, how we hire, where we should focus our biz dev, and more. One thing is certain — many agency owners like you feel re-energized and reinvigorated coming out of 2022. Let this episode be a ray of light that gives you an extra boost of encouragement for the rest of 2023, and keep that momentum going for as long as possible. For 30+ years, Drew McLellan has been in the advertising industry. He started his career at Y&R, worked in boutique-sized agencies, and then started his own (which he still owns and runs) agency in 1995. Additionally, Drew owns and leads the Agency Management Institute, which advises hundreds of small to mid-sized agencies on how to grow their agency and its profitability through agency owner peer groups, consulting, coaching, workshops and more. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: The impacts of recession fears on AGI and revenue ROI — the new agency buzzword A growing agency trend in having amazing teams Rebalancing overservicing and overstaffing issues The fading trend of over-specialization of agencies The PPC, SEO, and data analyst job boom A positive trend in agency owner happiness The continued importance of thought leadership and community spaces The agency employee trends of 2023 Embracing AI and using it as a tool for your work