Ever notice how some coffee shops just feel right? Like, you walk in and instantly know this is your spot. The music hits different, the baristas get your quirky humor, and even their branding and aesthetic somehow speak to your soul.
Finding your perfect agency partners works exactly the same way. And just like finding your go-to coffee spot, it’s less about hitting up every shop in town and more about recognizing the signs of a perfect match when you see them.
The “Perfect Match” Mindset
Here’s the thing most designers get wrong: they treat finding agency partners like speed dating. They’re sliding into every DM with a copy paste cold pitch, throwing their portfolio at anyone who’ll look, hoping something sticks.
But here’s the tea (or should I say coffee?): The best partnerships happen when you’re picky and intentional. Being intentional in the way you decide who to work with and who not to helps you refine your ideal partnership. While yes, there may be some seasons that come along where you find yourself taking on one off projects with less than ideal agencies (been there done that boo) those projects help you to refine your ideal partnership even further.
Spotting Your Perfect Match
Think about your favorite local coffee spot for a sec. What made you choose it over the chain store down the street? Maybe it’s their commitment to sustainable coffee farms, or how they remember your name, or the way their beautifully branded paper cups feel in your hand.
Your ideal agency partners have similar tell-tale signs:
They share your passion for design and business and it shines through socials. When you look at their work, something clicks. Their communication style feels natural, not forced. And most important? Their projects make you go “Damn, I would have loved to work on a project like that!”
Green Flags to Watch For
Just like a coffee shop with consistently great reviews and a line of happy regulars, great agency partners show their quality through certain signals:
- They respect other creators and give credit where it’s due
- They publicly lift up other creatives whether in Facebook groups or IG comment sections
- They value their team members (you’ll quickly spot the agencies with the high turnover rate if you pay attention long enough)
- Their client or team relationships seem long-term and positive
- They’re transparent about their process and values
- They’re professional but approachable, not showboating an unattainable lifestyle that gives you the ick
- The way they talk about their work and clients aligns with how you view design
- They offer value in their posts and stories in some way
When to Pass (Even If It Hurts)
Sometimes that trendy new coffee spot everyone’s raving about just isn’t your vibe – and that’s okay! The same goes for agencies. Even if they look amazing on paper, watch out for:
- Inconsistent communication
- Unclear expectations or scope
- Misaligned values about design and business
- Undervaluing and disrespecting team members and clients
- Agencies who are more of a quick conveyor belt, overbooking and under delivering
Making the First Move
Now, this is where most designers freeze up. They’ve found their dream agencies but aren’t sure how to move from social media stalker to potential partner. And you know what? That’s exactly why I created The White Label Way – to bridge that gap between spotting your perfect match and actually landing them as a client. Not to mention all the up-front info you need to know before you start or the backend processes to maintain those partnerships well.
Want the full playbook for turning those dream agencies into actual clients and keeping them around? That’s part of what we cover in-depth in the course, including a ton of helpful resources that have worked well for me and my clients in the last 6 years! Here’s a hint, it lies in authentic connections.
Your Next Steps
For now, start here:
- Make a list of 5 agencies that make you think “YUP, that’s exactly the kind of work I want to be doing!”
- Follow and engage with them authentically. It’s about creating true connections, not just biding your time before they hire you. A transactional approach isn’t the move.
- Notice what draws you to their work – these are clues to your ideal partnership style.
Remember: Finding your dream agency partners is less about casting a wide net and more about being intentionally selective. When it’s right, you just know.
Ready to turn those dream agencies into actual clients?
The White Label Way shows you exactly how to make that happen – from first contact to long-term partnership. Join me and the current beta students to learn the full strategy for landing and keeping your ideal agency clients. And all the important things in between!
