Selecting a Boston marketing agency can be a difficult task for today's small business owners. With the Internet making it easier almost every day to work with business partners all over the world, simply deciding whether to hire a local firm at all has become a major decision. And while it's tempting to take your business overseas for the potential of lower prices, nothing can replace the regionally specific, culturally relevant knowledge base and level of accountability you'll find in a local firm.

Once you've decided to opt for a local Boston marketing firm, it's important to take your time in researching all of your options. For instance, if you currently only need web design, Boston has no shortage of excellent freelancers and small firms, but business owners often find that they're being a bit short-sighted in hiring a firm strictly for web design. Boston is a remarkably competitive area, and each aspect of a business' marketing strategy must complement the others. By hiring a firm that only offers web design, Boston small business owners are creating a long-term problem by opting for a short-term solution.

Opting for a marketing agency over a web designer not only helps ensure that your marketing materials will complement one another better, but it provides opportunities for a much more comprehensive, holistic marketing approach. So, when selecting a Boston marketing firm, consider the offerings of each company on your list. What does each firm offer? How can they leverage their relationships with content providers, developers, and vendors to obtain better pricing for you? If they suit your needs now, consider whether they'll still be up to the task when you achieve your five-year goals.

Further, in selecting a Boston marketing agency, look at the types of clients they currently serve. Are members of the firm experienced in your field or a similar industry? Is your business specific to the region, or do you need a broader, national audience? What requirements does each company have in taking a new client? Will you have to sign a long-term contract with set monthly fees, or can you choose when to use the firm and when to scale back?

There's no harm in taking multiple quotes when selecting a company to handle your marketing and web design. Boston small business owners who limit themselves by only meeting with one or two companies may find they're missing out on some options only a few companies offer. For example, many firms will follow the standard ad agency model through which they engage in upselling clients and incentivizing their representatives to do so. But more forward-thinking marketing experts are moving toward an outsourced marketing department model that allows clients to utilize the skills and expertise of knowledgeable marketing gurus without locking them in to products and services the clients don't truly need.

Shop around, and take your time. Your marketing agency is a key partner in your business, so be sure of your decision, and choose someone you want to keep around for the long haul.