Explore warning signs of losing passion for your agency, staying in control of growth, importance of strategic planning, redefining success beyond financial metrics, practical strategies for agency owners to maintain passion and balance ambition for sustainable growth.

Learn from Ben Potter about strategies to understand client needs beyond briefs, the importance of agency positioning, and crafting a consultative sales process. Dive into insights on niche specialization, overcoming fears, and optimizing the sales process for agency success.

Learn how present actions impact your agency's future by avoiding common pitfalls of 'future blindness' and focusing on strategic planning, client management, scalability, and team development. Gain insights on balancing short-term demands with long-term growth strategies and making choices that align with your future agency vision.

Welcome to The Agency Accelerator podcast, where we explore all things related to running and growing your agency in a profitable, sustainable, and enjoyable way.  In today's episode, host Rob Da Costa delves into the fascinating world of AI coaching and its potential impact on agency owners.  Rob shares his journey of developing his own AI coach, AskRobAnything, equipped with over 30 years of agency expertise.  He discusses the concept of AI coaching, its applications, and the challenges and triumphs he encountered during the development process. Join us as we uncover the emerging world of AI coaching and its potential to revolutionise the way agency owners support and guide their clients in the future. Questions answered in this episode: Q: What are AI coaches and how do they work? Q: Explain the process of developing an AI coach and using it for tailored coaching and guidance. Q: How are AI coaches used to enhance client service and support, and how can they benefit team members? Q: How can AI coaches be integrated into daily routines to maximise their effectiveness? Q: What are your thoughts on the future of AI coaching? Q: How do you see AI coaches benefiting agencies and their clients? Quotations "AI coaching platforms provide a way forward for seasoned professionals to exponentially share our knowledge and better support our clients, our community and other people on their growth journeys." - Rob Da Costa "The opportunity to receive highly personalised, niched advice on demand already seems like science fiction, but AI coaching is making it a reality." - Rob Da Costa' Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people like you to move towards a Self-Running Agency. How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Learn more about AskRobAnything, AI Agency coachGet help with growing your agency: The Self-Running Agency Implementation Group Further questions: If you've got questions about anything we discussed in this episode, or if you've got questions about anything I've ever discussed on this podcast, head here and I will give you my best answer!

Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed as an agency owner, wearing too many hats and juggling countless responsibilities?  If so, this episode is your guide to creating a powerful senior leadership team to free up your time and transform your agency.  By listening, you'll learn the crucial insights to build a self-running agency, gain the confidence to delegate responsibilities and promote a culture of shared ownership and accountability within your team.  This episode will be relevant for anyone aspiring to grow their agency because creating a leadership team as soon as you can is a crucial step to start getting responsibilities off your shoulders!  It's time to take the first step towards a more profitable, sustainable, and enjoyable agency. Questions answered in this episode: Q: Why is it crucial to form a senior leadership team for an agency? Q: What are the challenges associated with building a senior leadership team? Q: When is the right time to form a senior leadership team, and who should be part of it? Q: What is the focus of senior leadership team meetings, and how often should they occur? Q: Can you share examples of successful senior leadership team implementations? Quotations "A self-running agency isn't a distant dream, but a tangible goal that begins by building a strong leadership team." - Rob Da Costa "Even if you're a small agency with just two people, you can and you should start forming a leadership team." - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people like you to move towards a Self-Running Agency. How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Learn more about growing your agency in a free copy of my Self-Running Agency BookGet help with growing your agency: The Self-Running Agency Implementation Group Further questions (AskRob): If you've got questions about anything we discussed in this episode, or if you've got questions about anything I've ever discussed on this podcast, head here and I will give you my best answer!

Struggling to juggle numerous tasks and tools in your agency, leading to decision fatigue and diluted quality of service?  Imagine achieving more by doing less.  In this episode, Rob discusses the power of simplifying your agency's operations, from service offerings to marketing strategies, and the profound impact it can have on your business and your stress levels.  With practical strategies and personal experiences, Rob provides valuable insights on how to streamline marketing, business development, and service delivery to achieve greater profitability and client satisfaction. Tune in to gain a fresh perspective on doing less to achieve more, and discover the power of simplification in growing a successful agency. Time Stamp [00:00] Introduction to the concept of simplifying business goals for the new year. [04:01] Observations of resistance towards simplification from clients. [05:02] Benefits of simplification in terms of focus and excellence. [06:09] Communicating core differentiation through simplicity. [07:55] Increased profitability through specialisation. [10:31] Simplification in marketing and business development strategies. [14:26] Encouragement to do less and do it better, while resisting the temptation to do more. Quotations “Do less and do it better, rather than being tempted to do more and spreading ourselves too thin." - Rob Da Costa "Simplify your services and be seen as the expert, not the generalist, to achieve greater excellence and profitability." - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people like you to move towards a Self-Running Agency. How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Contact Rob: robert@dacostacoaching.co.ukJoin one of my free live trainings; The AgencyAccelerator FREE Workshops Further questions (AskRob): If you've got questions about anything we discussed in this episode, or if you've got questions about anything I've ever discussed on this podcast, head here and I will give you my best answer!

Are you struggling to maximise your agency's profitability in today's competitive market?  Discover the foolproof strategies for achieving 30%+ net profit with Robert Patin in this week’s Agency Accelerator podcast. In this episode, you'll learn how to shift from time-based selling to value-based selling, analyse client profitability, and make strategic business decisions that drive your agency's success. You'll gain insights into increasing your agency's profitability, building value-based client relationships, and making strategic decisions for long-term success. Tune in now to uncover the secrets of achieving 30%+ net profit and revolutionise your agency's profitability! Time Stamp [01:34] A definition of net profit [03:00] What are typical agency net profits? [05:00] Why are so many agencies at the lower end of net profit (10%)? [06:34] Stop measuring your hourly rates and start measuring average earnings or effective bill rate [09:00] Stop selling time to clients! [12:48] What are the first steps to increasing profit margins? [15:32] Are there alternative ways to measure capacity and efficiency besides using time recording? [17:55] Why you should increase your prices (taking a value-selling approach) [22:50] Steps to increasing profits [27:35] When we are in an investment phase, how long should it be and how do we know we are making the right investment? Quotations “The thing I want to do most is often right behind the thing I want to do the least!” - Robert Patin “When we sell time to clients we focus on the wrong thing and disregard our years of experience and our strategic insights” - Rob Da Costa “Make decisions that are not emotionally based - hence the importance of a plan” - Robert Patin Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people like you to move towards a Self-Running Agency. How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: All resources mentioned today - on one page The AgencyAccelerator FREE Workshops

Welcome to a special episode of The Agency Accelerator podcast, where we celebrate a significant milestone - our 200th episode.  When I first started the podcast I never dreamed we would reach episode 200 and build a community of loyal listeners. Fast forward 3 years and here we are! In this special episode, I share lessons learned: quality over quantity, fostering a dedicated community, and harnessing the power of authentic storytelling to create a lasting impact.  Please join me to celebrate what’s come before and what’s to come this year. We are only just getting started! Time Stamp [00:00] - Introduction to the monumental 200th episode of The Agency Accelerator podcast [00:55] - Thanking the listeners and reflecting on the impact of the podcast [01:58] - Introduction to the Agency Accelerator podcast and the journey from the first episodes in December 2019 [02:31] - Reflecting on the progress from the first episodes to reaching 200 episodes [03:36] - Sharing insights on the early days, statistics, and determination to continue with the podcast [04:27] - Highlighting show stats, top listening countries, and popular episodes [05:25] - Sharing key learnings from over 200 episodes [06:12] - Discussing goals for the next 200 episodes and the impact of community and feedback [08:05] - Outlining specific goals for the next 200 episodes and personal commitment to improvement [09:12] - Request for reviews to celebrate the milestone and the impact on podcast growth and audience reach Quotations “Authentic storytelling and transparent insights resonate most with the audience. It's about being honest and real, connecting through shared experiences and learnings." - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people like you to move towards a Self-Running Agency. How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Agency Accelerator LIVE Workshops Further questions (AskRobAnything): If you've got questions about anything we discussed in this episode, or if you've got questions about anything I've ever discussed on this podcast, head here and I will give you my best answer!

In the competitive landscape of agency life, standing out and avoiding the race to the bottom is crucial. The focus of this episode is on empowering you with strategies to not only win clients but also retain and grow them. As we approach 2024, a challenging economic year, ensuring exceptional client service becomes even more vital for the sustainability and profitability of your agency. We will cover 3 key areas: 1. Discerning Prospecting: Learn how to identify and target clients who not only fit your core niche but also value your services, leading to successful, long-term relationships. 2. Precise Project Scoping: Understand the importance of detailed project scoping to set clear expectations, prevent misalignments, and ensure a smooth client-agency relationship from the start. 3. Outcome-Focused Communications: Discover the significance of communicating with clients based on business outcomes and strategic goals rather than just providing tactical project updates. Now, dive into this episode to gain insights into the 9 non-negotiable strategies for elevating your agency's client service. Implementing these strategies will not only set you apart from the competition but also contribute to the long-term success and profitability of your agency. Don't miss out – hit play and start transforming your approach to client service today! Time Stamp [02:51] The importance of finding ideal target clients who understand and value your services. [04:09] Clear Project Scoping client projects to set expectations. [07:09] The advantages of focusing on business outcomes & strategic goals in communications. [09:25] The importance of implementing standardised systems & processes for consistent client experiences [10:46] Cross-Functional Teamwork [13:05] Proactive Relationship Building [14:11] Preventing Over-Servicing for long-term sustainability and profitability [15:09] Why you must invest in team member's training in account management & client service [16:26] Proactive Account Development Planning Quotations “No one wants to have a revolving door of clients coming in one door and clients exiting out the other. So one way to ensure that this doesn't happen is to make sure that you have great client service in place that is consistently delivered by everybody." - Rob Da Costa “Great customer service requires strategy plus empathy. Take a consultative approach laser-focused on achieving your client's goals." - Rob Da Costa "Preventing over-servicing is perhaps one of the most important of my nine tips for you. Time track carefully, and whenever over-servicing approaches 10% of the estimated hours, implement strategies to rein it back in before it becomes normalised." - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people like you to move towards a Self-Running Agency. How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you loved most about the episode! Useful links mentioned in this episode: 50% discount on my best-selling Client & Account Management Mastery CourseFREE Client & Account Management GuideAttend my FREE Value-Packed Agency Accelerator LIVE Workshops Further questions (AskRobAnything): If you've got questions about anything we discussed in this episode, or if you've got questions about anything I've ever discussed on this podcast, head here and I will give you my best answer!

In this episode of The Agency Accelerator, host Rob Da Costa is joined by guest Michael Wark, CEO of Trimline. They dive into the four key areas that agency owners need to focus on to build a profitable and sustainable business.  From mindset and metrics to process and cash flow, they provide valuable insights and practical tips for agency owners to thrive in any external circumstances. Michael shares lots of useful industry stats and ways to measure agency effectiveness. Time Stamp [00:00] Introduction to the episode and guest, Michael Wark [01:28] What are the key areas that agencies should focus on to build a profitable business? [05:00] What should agency owners be paying themselves? [07:20] Why is net profit such an important factor for business growth? What percentage should agencies aim for? [08:20] What is revenue per full-time employee, and why is it important for agencies? [09:40] What percentage should agencies aim for? [10:30] What should revenue per full-time employee be? [10:54] How can agencies diagnose issues with employees not hitting the revenue targets? [14:12] What are the most important processes to invest in to grow your agency? [16:30] What should be the first systems or processes to put in place? [18:00] What is the most effective way to roll out new processes to ensure they are adopted? [21:22] What strategies can agencies employ to improve their cash flow? [26:00] Why are cash reserves important for agencies? [27:20] Final thoughts to help agencies in a challenging environment Quotations "Building a profitable agency starts with mindset – visualise your success and know your true worth. Michael Wark "Hire the best people you can afford and work to make yourself as dispensible as possible!" Rob Da Costa "Look at where you want to be in 2,3,5 years from now and consider what systems & processes you will need in place. Get ahead of the game" Michael Wark Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people like you to move towards a Self-Running Agency. How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Systemology BookMichael’s LinkedIn profileTrimline’s websiteThe Agency Accelerator WorkshopThe Self-Running Agency Book Further questions (AskRobAnything): If you've got questions about anything we discussed in this episode, or if you've got questions about anything I've ever discussed on this podcast, head here and I will give you my best answer!