How to Hire a Direct Marketing Specialist

There are many types of direct marketing specialists. Graphic designer, copywriter, marketer and other job titles can be used to describe someone who specializes in creating aspects of direct marketing campaigns. It can be a little complex to decide whom you need to hire to get your marketing campaign going.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Find the Right Direct Marketing Specialist

1. Find out what services your potential direct marketing specialist offers. Some might simply handle the design of mailers, while others include printing and mailing or emailing services. Consider whether you'll need your marketer to find leads or whether you already have a list of contact information you can use.

2. Ask to see samples of prior projects your preferred specialists have worked on. You can also request references and testimonials from their other clients. Ask them to explain the sorts of responses that each campaign received, and what they'd do differently next time. While you may not understand their jargon, the fact that they've thought about it can point to a good specialist.

3. Determine who is responsible for handling consumer responses. In some cases, you will need a marketing specialist to analyze any information collected from those responses, especially if you intend to use it to improve later marketing campaigns.

4. Hire a direct marketing specialist who offers the specific services you need. If you have no ability to handle any aspect of a direct marketing campaign within your company, you will need a specialist who can take care of everything from concept to response analysis.

5. Sign a contract with set dates and expectations for both you and your marketer. A written contract will give you both a chance to make sure you are clear about what the campaign will entail, what results you expect and when the project will be completed.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are having trouble finding a direct marketing specialist in your area, try contacting local or regional professional associations.
• Some direct marketing specialists work with specific formats, such as mailers or email, while others work with specific industries. As you begin the hiring process, you will need to decide which type of specialist is more valuable to your company.
• There are few official requirements that must be met to enter the field of direct marketing, so be wary of any candidates who cannot supply examples of past work. While an individual new to the profession can still provide excellent work, it is better to hire an experienced marketer.