Episode 496 Navigating Agency Trends with Lee McKnight

Welcome to another insightful episode of Build a Better Agency! Today, host Drew McLellan returns with guest Lee McKnight from RSW to dive deep into the findings of the new 2025 Outlook report, exploring the evolving landscape of agency-client dynamics. As a key industry player, Lee brings a wealth of knowledge about the intersection of innovative trends and client expectations.

In this enlightening discussion, Drew and Lee unpack the promising data from the report, which suggests an optimistic outlook for agency-client spending in the coming year. They tackle critical topics such as the enduring power of referrals, the rising significance of direct outreach, and the crucial role of consistent and targeted content in building authority and securing new business. They make it clear that agencies need to embrace these insights to tailor their strategies effectively.

The pair also delve into the complex topic of competition from in-house teams and how agencies can strategically position themselves as indispensable partners through specialized expertise and forward-thinking strategies. Highlighting the potential of AI in both business development and operational efficiency, Drew and Lee emphasize the importance of agencies staying ahead of the curve to maintain relevancy and competitiveness in an ever-changing market. 

This episode is packed with actionable insights and expert advice that can help you refine your approach to business development, client retention, and trend adaptation. Whether you're looking to cement your agency’s authority or navigate the nuances of modern client demands, this episode offers the guidance you need to thrive. Don’t miss out on learning how to align your agency’s efforts with the expectations of 2025 and beyond. 

A big thank you to our podcast’s presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They’re an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here.

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

• • The alignment and discrepancies in spending optimism between marketers and agencies 
  • The persistent and pivotal role of referrals and outreach in agency-client relationships
  • Embracing AI for research and operational efficiencies without undermining creativity
  • The evolving dynamics of in-house agency work versus external agency engagements
  • Navigating the world of RFPs with a focus on strategic selectivity
  • Demonstrating value through differentiated expertise and specialization