EP31: Why Do eCommerce Agencies Suck? Lessons Learned and Red Flags to Avoid
ASOM Pod
Intro
This chapter emphasizes the importance of brands thoroughly interviewing agencies to assess their genuine experiences. It also explores how AI advancements are reshaping agency operations and pricing, intertwined with a humorous personal anecdote about ride-sharing services that highlights themes of accountability.
In this episode of the ASOM Pod hosts John Roman (CEO of BattlBox), Amer Grozdanic (CEO of Praella), Bryan McDonald (Director of eCommerce at Oma's Pride), and Jimmy Kim (CEO of eCom Email Marketer & Founder of Sendlane) tackle the complex and often misunderstood world of agencies. From full-service powerhouses to boutique specialists and freelancers, they explore the challenges brands face when selecting, managing, and evolving their agency relationships.
The team dives into the importance of setting clear KPIs, fostering strong communication, and aligning on mutual roles for a successful partnership. They also debate the impact of AI on the future of agencies, predicting cost reductions, increased efficiency, and even a shake-up in traditional agency models
What You’ll Learn: - The pros and cons of full-service, specialized, boutique agencies, and freelancers - Why clear KPIs and communication are crucial for agency success - How AI is transforming the agency landscape and reshaping business models - The debate on performance-based pricing and agency loyalty - Practical strategies for navigating the agency selection process
This episode is a must-listen for marketers and brand leaders looking to make informed decisions about their agency partnerships. Tune in for actionable insights, future-focused predictions, and a few spicy takes along the way!
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Big thanks to Omnisend for sponsoring the pod! With 125,000+ eCommerce merchants, Omnisend is the all-in-one email & SMS marketing platform built to deliver seamless, personalized experiences with ease. Learn more at https://www.omnisend.com/
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00:00 Teaser Trailer
00:26 The Impact of AI on Agencies
01:13 Uber vs. Lyft: A Personal Story
03:47 Welcome to the ASOM Pod
05:12 Agency Experiences and Hot Takes
07:03 Choosing the Right Agency
15:22 Full Service vs. Specialized Agencies
32:19 Freelancers vs. Contractors
40:49 Navigating the Agency Selection Process
42:01 Overcoming Business Hurdles
42:26 Choosing the Right Agency
44:29 The Importance of Networking
48:43 Client References and Expectations
56:27 Agency and Brand Relationships
01:00:14 The Future of Agencies with AI
01:04:43 Debating Agency Models
01:18:19 Bryan's Buy or Sell
01:24:15 Next Episode Preview
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Follow Jimmy Kim at:
X: https://www.twitter.com/yojimmykim
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yojimmykim
IG: https://www.instagram.com/@yojimmykim
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yojimmykim
Follow Bryan MacDonald at:
X: https://www.twitter.com/bryanomaspride
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-macdonald-ct
IG: https://www.instagram.com/@anythingbutasalad
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anythingbutasalad
Follow John Roman at:
X: https://www.twitter.com/@JohnMRoman
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-roman/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/@johnnyromes
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnmroman
Follow Amer Grozdanic at:
X: https://www.twitter.com/@AmerGrozdanic
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-grozdanic
IG: https://www.instagram.com/@amergrozdanic
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amergrozdanic
Contact us at hello@asompod.com for sponsorships, appearance requests, interviews, or general information!
Subscribe to our newsletter! We drop weekly hot takes, totally unfiltered. Join us at https://asompod.com
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