Avoid the curses that come along with picking the wrong agency. We know that bad agency relationships can feel like you’re in the Twilight Zone and can spread poison across marketing teams. With the spooky season upon us, no need for agency related nightmares. 

Changing agencies can be scary, but nothing’s more terrifying than troubled agency partnerships. In place of candy, we're passing out helpful RFP treats (and maybe a few tricks): 

No Haunted Houses! No need for multi-dimensions, surprises around every corner or that super creepy demon possessed child popping out of nowhere. While Halloween is a perfect place for these things, your agency search is not. Be clear about needs, requirements and expectations to keep from scary surprises popping up down the road (a well lit road, not a dark and gloomy one). 

No “One Size Fits All” Costumes! Just like those costumes fit weirdly, a “one size fits all” approach to an agency search will fit weird too. No agency search is the same as another - each should be customized based on your team’s specific needs.

No Candy Corn! While some people LOVE candy corn, others can’t stand it. Similarly, just because another marketing team likes an agency, doesn’t mean you’re going to like them too. Taking the time for a thorough review process will save you in the long run. And, if candy corn is your thing, have at it! 

No Tricks, only Treats! No one wants a toothbrush when you are expecting candy. You know to avoid those houses, and go to the houses with the best candy (like a full size candy bar). Just like you have plans around your trick-or-treating route, make sure you have the right agencies included in your search. And, that you’re asking them the right questions so that you can truly understand if they are the right partner for you. 

No “Boo”! While scary movies may have some unknown person lurking in the background, your agency team should be known (and not lurking). You shouldn’t be surprised by who your agency team is after the pitches conclude and you’re starting to onboard your new agency partner. Insist that people who will be on your day-to-day team be in your pitch meetings and any follow-up Q&A sessions as well.

No Ghosting! While ghosts are great Halloween decorations, “ghosting” has no place in an agency search. Don’t just disappear. The agency spent a ton of time and money going through your review process; make sure to communicate and share feedback. 

The Monster Mash basically sums up the results of running an agency search the right way, “Now everything's cool, Drac's a part of the band. And my Monster Mash is the hit of the land.”

Happy Halloween! Remember, if you find yourself in a bit of toil and trouble this spooky season, the Ghost Busters can’t help you, but we can. Who you gonna call? 😉 👻🕺🪩