10 Things We’ve Discovered Running a Digital Marketing Agency in 10 Years of Business
This September, 5 Horizons is excited to celebrate 10 years of business! This last decade has been full of growth and learning. We’ve worked with nearly 100 clients in over 10 different industries.
From higher education and senior living, to real estate and healthcare, we have delivered cutting-edge websites, strategic campaigns, and eye-catching designs. Our team has grown into a powerhouse of data, strategy, and creative experts, constantly pushing the boundaries of modern aesthetics and techniques.
With a decade of experience, we’ve compiled a list of our top 10 lessons that have kept our company strong:
1. Always Keep Learning
Technology and media are always changing, so it’s important to keep an eye on new software, tools, and trends. There will always be something new to learn, test, or explore. Don’t let complacency stop you from growing.
2. Keep An Eye On The Trends
Knowing your audience and what is catching their eye will help you jump on the trends that will make the biggest splash. What works for the masses may not always work for your business model, but it’s smart to keep an eye on what trends are taking center stage. Specifically, pay attention to the content that resonates most with your unique audience.
3. Blaze Your Own Trail
On the other hand, trends come and go every day. Never be afraid to try something new or push the boundaries with new techniques. Your brand, voice, style, and quality of work are what set you apart from your competitors. Don’t be afraid to take the road less traveled.
4. Client Communication is Key
The key to successful client relationships is clear and consistent communication. Honoring the partnership you have with your clients will always pay off with trust and loyalty. Digital marketing isn’t magic, but establishing a healthy client partnership will allow you to work together to find success.
5. Lean On Your Community
As a company that has grown from four employees to 20, our community of friends, family, and professional colleagues have been our foundation for success. We are proud to be located in the greater Boston area, nestled in the South Shore city of Braintree. This local pride gives us a deeper understanding of legacy and commitment that many of our clients relate with.
6. Never Stop Building Your Network
You never know where you’ll meet your next client. Be kind, courteous, and open to new connections wherever you are. Don’t shy away from talking about the company, the work, or the team culture––you could be speaking to a future client, referral, or employee.
7. Play the Long Game
Some clients take years to manifest from casual encounters to dedicated partners. You never know when a brief conversation could loop back around years later to become a lucrative connection. Stay in touch when you’re able and let them know you’re always open to a conversation when they’re ready.
8. Be Authentic
We all work in marketing. We know a gimmick when we see one. Which is why authenticity is the greatest skill you can offer your clients, your employees, and your community.
9. Rely On Your Team
Shifting our focus from a small start-up to an established agency meant hiring the right people and growing a strong team of experts to rely on. With more voices at the table, our quality of work constantly expands with fresh ideas and new skills in a collaborative environment.
10. Have Fun
5 Horizons is a business, but at the end of the day we are a team of human beings. If we’re not enjoying what we do and who we are working with, then it won’t be sustainable. We are a hard working team, but we also encourage adding a healthy dose of fun to every work day.
We are thrilled to hit the one decade mark as a digital marketing agency. And we’re thrilled to enter the next decade of business with our dedicated clients and talented team of employees.
– Pat Riley & Ben Sandman