When your startup is ready to grow, outsourcing marketing and hiring an agency to manage campaigns often seems like the obvious solution. But is it really what you need? Often, these actions lack a strategic vision that connects marketing efforts to real business goals.
This is where a Fractional CMO can make a difference. Rather than running campaigns, this model combines strategy and action to align marketing with the growth of your business. Agency or Fractional CMO? The answer depends on where you are and what you want to achieve. Let us help you decide.
Level of involvement and strategic leadership
How does a marketing agency work?
Marketing agencies tend to work externally and rely on you already having an internal leader (a CMO or yourself as founder) to set the direction. Their focus is more limited to executing specific tasks that you ask them to do.
What does a Fractional CMO bring to the table?
On the other hand, a Fractional CMO is not just another external consultant; he or she is part of your team. He works hand in hand with sales, operations and product development, making sure that marketing is aligned with the company's overall objectives. This level of integration ensures that every decision makes sense in the overall context.
Strategy vs. execution
Agencies are specialists in executing: advertising campaigns, social media, content production... all the tactical stuff. If you know exactly what you need to do but don't have the team to carry it out, an agency can be useful.
A Fractional CMO doesn't just execute; he builds from the ground up a comprehensive strategy that connects all the dots in your business. It detects market opportunities, defines priorities and coordinates actions, making sure that everything works as a cog.
Personalised relationship versus standardised services
Agencies often operate standardised processes to handle multiple clients at once. While they are efficient and consistent, they don't always have the flexibility or time to delve into the specifics of your business.
A Fractional CMO is deeply involved in your business. It understands your culture, your goals and your challenges. It doesn't come with a "standard package", but designs solutions specific to what you really need, adjusting to changes on the fly.
Cost vs. value
Is it cheaper to hire an agency?
Hiring an agency may seem cheaper at first, but costs can quickly escalate if you need additional services or specific campaigns. And without a solid strategy to guide your actions, you could end up wasting resources.
Is it worth investing in a Fractional CMO?
A Fractional CMOAlthough it may seem like a larger investment at first, it focuses on maximising ROI. Every euro you invest has a clear purpose and measurable results. And by combining strategy and execution, it optimises your resources in the long run.
When to Choose a Fractional CMO?
- Yes you don't have a CMO and need strategic direction.
- Yes you want to align marketing with sales and growth.
- Yes you seek adaptability and leadership at every stage of your start-up.
- Yes you want to maximise the value of your marketing investment.
At Lebowski we are the first consultancy firm in Spain to specialise in Fractional CMO. We offer strategic marketing leadership, tailored to the pace and real needs of your startup.
Ready to transform your marketing? Let's talk.