Insights

HubSpot Consultant vs HubSpot Agency

Written by ashcollyer | Nov 7, 2023 10:18:45 AM

Choosing between a HubSpot consultant or agency can be a difficult decision. Both offer unique advantages and drawbacks, and it may not be immediately obvious which one is the right fit for your business.

 

Are you considering using HubSpot to help grow your business, but don’t know where to start? Choosing between a HubSpot Consultant or agency can be a difficult decision. Both offer unique advantages and drawbacks, and it may not be immediately obvious which one is the right fit for your business. In this article, we’ll break down the differences between HubSpot consultants and agencies and help you make an informed decision.

 

Understanding HubSpot Consultants and HubSpot Agencies

Before we dive into the differences between the two, it’s important to understand what exactly a HubSpot consultant and a HubSpot agency are.

 

What is a HubSpot Consultant?

A HubSpot consultant is a professional who specialises in providing guidance and support to businesses that use HubSpot. They are experts in the HubSpot platform and can help businesses make the most of their investment in the software. HubSpot consultants can work as individual freelancers or as part of a consulting firm. They offer a range of services, including:

  • Strategy and planning: HubSpot consultants can help businesses develop a marketing strategy that aligns with their goals and objectives. They can also assist with creating a plan for implementing HubSpot into their marketing efforts.
  • HubSpot setup and management: HubSpot consultants can help businesses set up and manage their HubSpot accounts, including configuring settings, creating workflows, and managing contacts.
  • Training and support: A HubSpot Consultant can provide training and support to businesses on how to use HubSpot effectively. They can also troubleshoot any issues that arise. Content creation: Some HubSpot consultants offer content creation services, such as blog writing or social media management.

Overall, HubSpot consultants offer businesses a specialised skillset and expertise in using the HubSpot platform to achieve their marketing goals

.

What is a HubSpot Agency?

A HubSpot agency is a company that provides a broader range of marketing services, with HubSpot implementation as one of their main focuses. HubSpot agencies offer a one-stop-shop for businesses looking to outsource their entire marketing function. Their services can include:

  • Web design and development: HubSpot agencies can design and develop websites that are optimised for lead generation and conversion. They can also ensure that the website integrates seamlessly with HubSpot.
  • Content creation: HubSpot agencies can create a range of content, including blog posts, ebooks, white papers, and social media posts, that is optimised for lead generation and conversion.
  • Social media management: HubSpot agencies can manage a business’s social media accounts, including creating and scheduling posts, monitoring engagement, and analysing performance.
  • Email marketing: HubSpot agencies can create and manage email marketing campaigns that are optimised for lead generation and conversion.

HubSpot agencies offer businesses a comprehensive marketing solution that is tailored to their specific needs. They can help businesses save time and resources by outsourcing their marketing function to a team of experts.

In conclusion, while both HubSpot consultants and HubSpot agencies offer value to businesses looking to improve their marketing efforts, the main difference lies in the scope of their services. HubSpot consultants offer specialised expertise in using the HubSpot platform, while HubSpot agencies offer a broader range of marketing services.

 

Key Differences Between HubSpot Consultants and Agencies

When it comes to getting the most out of your HubSpot experience, you have a few options. Two of the most popular are working with a HubSpot Consultant or a HubSpot agency. While both can help you achieve your marketing goals, there are some key differences between the two that are worth exploring.

 

Scope of Services

 

One of the biggest differences between a HubSpot consultant and an agency is the scope of services offered. Typically, a consultant will specialise in one or two areas, such as strategy or implementation. They may have deep expertise in these areas, but they may not be able to provide the same range of services as an agency.

 

On the other hand, a HubSpot agency can handle everything from web design and development to social media management and content creation. If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop for all your marketing needs, an agency may be the way to go.

 

Pricing and Packages

 

Another key difference between consultants and agencies is pricing and packages. Consultants tend to offer more flexible pricing options, as they often charge by the hour or project. This can be beneficial if you only need help with a specific task or project, as you can pay for exactly what you need.

 

Agencies, on the other hand, usually have a set pricing structure with pre-determined packages and contract terms. While this can be less flexible, it can also provide more predictability in terms of cost and deliverables.

 

Team Size and Expertise

 

When it comes to team size and expertise, both consultants and agencies can have experts on staff. However, agencies typically have a larger team with a wider range of expertise. This can be beneficial for businesses that require more complex marketing strategies or need help executing a broad range of tasks.

 

That being said, a consultant who specialises in a specific area may have deeper expertise in that area than a generalist at an agency. It’s important to consider your specific needs and goals when deciding which option is right for you.

 

Customisation and Flexibility

 

Finally, when it comes to customisation and flexibility, there are some differences between consultants and agencies. Working with a consultant can be more flexible and customisable, as you only pay for the services you need. Consultants tend to be more open to customising their approach to fit the needs of each individual client – an area that sets me apart from the large agencies.

 

Agencies, on the other hand, may have a more rigid structure that is less adaptable to individual client needs.

 

Ultimately, the decision between working with a HubSpot Consultant or agency depends on your specific needs and goals. By understanding the differences between the two, you can make an informed decision that will help you get the most out of your HubSpot experience.

 

Advantages of Hiring a HubSpot Consultant

 

One of the main advantages of working with a consultant is their specialised expertise in HubSpot. HubSpot is a powerful marketing automation platform that can be complex to navigate. A consultant can help businesses navigate the platform’s features, integrations, and capabilities to create a customised marketing strategy that aligns with their business goals.

 

Moreover, consultants can provide targeted advice and guidance to ensure that businesses get the most out of the platform. They can help businesses optimise their marketing campaigns, improve lead generation, and increase conversion rates. They can also provide training and support to help businesses develop the skills they need to manage their marketing campaigns effectively.

 

Additionally, consultants can often work more quickly and efficiently than larger agencies, which can be ideal for businesses with a tighter budget or time constraints. They can provide personalised support and attention to detail, ensuring that businesses get the results they need quickly and effectively.

 

Overall, working with a HubSpot Consultant can be a great way for businesses to get the most out of their marketing campaigns. Consultants can provide specialised expertise, personalised support, and targeted guidance to help businesses achieve their marketing goals.

 

Pros of Working with a HubSpot Agency

 

The primary advantage of working with an agency is the breadth of services and size of team they offer if you need more than just individual HubSpot elements or support.

 

Additionally, larger agencies typically have more resources and can handle more complex strategies and resource intensive projects. This means that businesses can scale their marketing efforts as they grow without having to switch vendors.

 

Finally, an agency can be a one-stop shop for business owners who want to fully outsource their marketing function. This can be especially beneficial for small businesses that don’t have the resources or expertise to manage their marketing in-house.

 

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between a Consultant and Agency

When it comes to choosing between a marketing consultant and agency, there are several factors that you need to consider. While both can offer valuable expertise, the decision ultimately comes down to your business size and needs, marketing goals and strategy, budget and resources, and preferred working style and relationship.

 

Your Business Size and Needs

 

The size and needs of your business will play a significant role in determining whether a consultant or agency is the best fit. If you are a small business with a limited budget, a marketing consultant may be the better choice. Consultants tend to work with smaller businesses and can offer more personalised attention and flexibility. They can also provide a more targeted approach to your specific marketing needs.

 

I offer Freelance Marketing Consultancy services to businesses typically of between 15 - 100 employees which may be a good place to start.

 

Your Marketing Goals and Strategy

 

If you have a well-defined marketing strategy that requires highly complex execution, an agency may be the better choice.  They can help you develop a strategic plan that aligns with your overall business goals and objectives.

Alternatively, if you only need help with a specific aspect of marketing, such as HubSpot, a consultant may be more appropriate. Consultants tend to have expertise in specific areas and can offer more targeted solutions to your marketing challenges. I deliver Marketing Consultancy for small businesses so am ideally placed to support

 

Your Budget and Resources

 

Your budget will play a significant role in determining whether to work with a consultant or agency. If you have a limited budget, a consultant may be the more cost-effective choice. Consultants typically charge lower fees than agencies and can offer more flexible pricing options.

Alternatively, if you have the resources to invest in a full-service marketing agency, that may be the better option. Agencies tend to have higher fees, but they also have a larger team of experts and can offer a wider range of services.

 

Your Preferred Working Style and Relationship

 

Your preferred working style will also play a role in determining whether a consultant or agency is the best fit. For businesses that want a more customised approach, a consultant may be the better choice. Consultants tend to work more closely with their clients and can offer a more personalised experience and will be able to get to know your business better.

 

Alternatively, if a business owner is looking for a more hands-off approach, an agency may be the way to go. Agencies tend to have a more structured process and can handle most of the work without requiring as much input from the client.

 

Ultimately, the decision to work with a marketing consultant or agency comes down to your specific needs and goals. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that will help you achieve your marketing objectives and grow your business.