4 key questions you should ask before signing on
Hiring a marketing firm as a government agency or contractor means weighing both the value of the services offered and how well they align with your operational and regulatory needs. Linden helps teams evaluate the potential return on investment (ROI) that a marketing partnership can bring, and whether hiring an external firm makes sense at this stage of growth.
As you consider your options and the costs involved, here are four key questions to guide your decision-making process:
1. What Standards Should You Look For?
Government agencies and contractors are held to high standards, and your marketing partner should be, too. From transparency to performance, any firm you work with should be prepared to meet the same level of accountability. As you evaluate options, consider whether they hold relevant certifications and partnerships, have a demonstrated track record with contract-based clients, and use tools that meet your organization’s compliance requirements.
Linden is a certified Minority or Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) in both New York State and Monroe County, and has been recognized as one of the fastest-growing NYS MWBEs for two consecutive years. We are also a certified Semrush Agency Partner, Google Partner, and WP Engine Partner, and operate using security-compliant software and internal data protection protocols, ensuring our systems align with your procurement expectations.
2. How Will ROI and Value Be Measured?
One of the biggest challenges in marketing is understanding what’s actually working. With limited budgets and strict accountability requirements, you need clear, accurate measurements of campaign performance to make informed decisions.
What to look for in marketing measurement:
- Comprehensive reporting tools that provide real-time access to campaign data
- Forecasting and modeling capabilities to estimate the potential impact of media buys before you commit budget
- Transparent budgeting and billing practices so you have full visibility into how funds are allocated and what outcomes they generate
Reliable data and transparency are essential for demonstrating return on investment and ensuring your marketing efforts are aligned with your organizational goals. At Linden, we deliver always-on reporting dashboards, full budget transparency, and a proprietary media calculator designed to prove ROI before a campaign even launches.
3. Does the Firm Understand How Your Organization Operates?
Working with a marketing firm should feel like adding a strategic extension to your team, not onboarding a vendor who needs constant explanation. Understanding public timelines, business cycles, internal approval processes, and audience sensitivities is key.
- Has the agency worked with government entities, contractors, or regulated industries before?
- Do they understand how to navigate RFPs and compliance reviews?
Our team at Linden works seamlessly within various business environments, providing structured, responsive support while respecting the workflows and regulations that define your space.
4. Are They the Right Fit for Your Goals and Team?
Not every marketing firm is built to navigate the structure, regulations, and expectations that come with government-based work. You need a team that knows how to be creative within constraints and one that respects your processes and timelines. As you evaluate potential partners, consider whether they have experience with compliance-driven organizations, can share case studies that reflect relevant work, and operate with values that align with your own.
At Linden, we bring a deep understanding of highly structured industries and the strategic insight to support them. Our team communicates with clarity and efficiency, delivering work that not only meets your goals but reflects the standards and professionalism your organization stands for. Beyond our client partnerships, we’re committed to strengthening the community, proudly donating time and expertise to more than 10 civic, nonprofit, and educational initiatives, including Habitat for Humanity, Rochester Young Professionals, and the Rochester AMA.
Ultimately, understanding how to choose the right marketing agency comes down to more than just services and pricing. It’s about finding a team that understands your environment, shares your values, and can deliver measurable results. If you’re ready to see what a tailored marketing strategy could look like for your agency or organization, set up a time to request a media calculator and explore the potential of working with Linden.