It's worth it when it produces booked jobs you can count, at a cost per customer that makes sense for your average job. It's hype when the agency talks about clicks, impressions and AI features instead of customers. The simplest test is what the agency gets paid for.
Signs It's Worth It
- You already get calls and inquiries but can't answer all of them fast.
- You want more work but don't have time to run ads or chase leads.
- Your average job is big enough that a few extra customers a month matters.
Signs It's Hype
- Reports full of clicks and impressions, with no booked jobs.
- A big monthly retainer no matter what happens.
- Leads handed to you to chase yourself.
How ELSA Handles It
ELSA Marketing is paid on results: a one-time setup, then fees tied to results you can count, with no monthly retainer. It works best for service businesses doing around $25K or more a month.