Your First 90 Days with a Marketing Agency: What to Expect, What to Demand, and What Success Looks Like
- thestephaniejato
- Sep 9
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 12
Introduction
Hiring a marketing agency is a big step for SMEs. But too often, businesses don’t know what to expect or what to demand. The first 90 days set the tone for success (or disappointment).
Here’s a clear 90-day roadmap so you know what should happen, what to ask for, and how to measure success.
Phase 1: Onboarding & Strategy (Days 1–30)
What should happen:
Kick-off meeting to align on business goals.
Audit of your current marketing assets (website, CRM, campaigns).
Creation of a 90-day plan with agreed deliverables.
What to demand:
Clear communication channels (weekly or biweekly calls).
Transparent KPIs (not just “vanity metrics” like impressions). Want to know exactly what to demand? Read our post on the top 5 metrics every SME should track.
Access to shared tools/dashboards.
Red flag: Agencies that skip discovery and jump straight into “posting on social” without a plan.
Phase 2: Implementation & Early Wins (Days 31–60)
What should happen:
Launch of quick-win campaigns (email, Google My Business updates, retargeting).
Early website optimisations (SEO fixes, improved CTAs).
Content calendar agreed and in motion.
What to demand:
Evidence of execution: posts going live, campaigns running.
Early performance reports (clicks, leads, engagement).
Proactive recommendations (not just reacting to your requests).
Red flag: Silence. If you’re not seeing visible activity by Day 45, there’s a problem.
Phase 3: Optimisation & Scaling (Days 61–90)
What should happen:
The agency reviews performance data with you.
Refinement of campaigns based on what’s working.
Longer-term planning for the next 6–12 months.
What to demand:
A clear “90-day review” session.
Evidence of ROI (lead cost, conversion rates, revenue impact).
Strategic advice, not just task delivery.
Red flag: Agencies that avoid reporting or can’t show a tangible impact.
How to Measure Success in the First 90 Days
Clarity: Do you know what’s being done and why?
Activity: Are campaigns and optimisations happening consistently?
Impact: Are you seeing early signs of ROI (more leads, better engagement)?
Conclusion
The first 90 days with a marketing agency are crucial. With the right roadmap, you’ll avoid wasted time, money, and disappointment, and instead, build a partnership that fuels growth.
Thinking of hiring a marketing agency or switching agencies? Book a free consultation with Gold Leaf Consult and we’ll guide you through a smooth, smart transition.