Small Business Marketing Help:
Hire Full-Time, Outsource, or Hybrid?
Table of Contents
So your business is growing – that’s awesome! But now you’re probably scratching your head wondering how to handle all the marketing, right? Especially when you’re juggling a million other things and maybe can’t afford a seasoned, full-time marketing guru just yet. This is a super common spot for business owners like you, like us!
Let’s see if this helps, then– This Get Smarter and Better guide is like a quick coffee chat to help you figure out your next best move: hire a newbie, get a consultant, or maybe a bit of both? Let’s break it down, while trying to keep it all simple and practical for the oh-so-busy you!
The Big Question: In-House Whiz, Expert Guide, or Power Duo?
The best choice really depends on your immediate needs, budget, and how hands-on you want to be.
Hiring a Full-Time Marketing Whiz (Often a Fresh Grad)
This means bringing someone onto your payroll. For many SMEs, this often starts with a keen fresh graduate or junior-level marketer.
Partnering with an External Consultant/Agency (like us at GSB!)
This is about bringing in specialized expertise for strategy, execution, or both.
The Hybrid Power-Up (Newbie + Senior Consultant – Often the SME Sweet Spot!)
This is our favorite "Get Smarter and Better" approach for many growing SMEs!
| Option | Pros | Cons |
| Full-Time Newbie | Dedicated, grows with you, fresh energy | Needs lots of training/direction, learning curve, full overhead |
| Consultant/Agency | Instant expertise, strategic thinking, flexible | Higher per-hour cost, less daily immersion, still need internal coordination |
| Hybrid (Newbie + Consultant) | Best of both, cost-effective expertise, develops internal talent, expert-guided execution | Requires budget for both, good communication flow essential |
Hiring Smarter:
Quick Tips for Finding Your Marketing Match
If you’re thinking about one of these routes. Here’s how to find the right fit:
1.
If Hiring a Full-Time Newbie (Especially Fresh Grads):
- Resume Scan – What to Spot (and Forgive!):
- Spot: Initiative (school orgs, personal projects, volunteer work), basic digital literacy (mentions social media, Canva, etc.), good written communication.
- Forgive: Lack of extensive paid work experience (that’s why they’re a newbie!), not knowing every marketing buzzword. Attitude and eagerness to learn are GOLD.
2.
If Engaging an External Consultant/Agency:
- What to Look For:
- [ ] Proven Track Record with SMEs: Ask for case studies or examples relevant to your industry/size in the Philippines.
- [ ] Clear Communication & Process: Do they explain things in a way you understand? Do they have a clear approach?
- [ ] Understands Your Business: Do they ask lots of questions about your goals and challenges before proposing solutions?
- [ ] Cultural Fit & Transparency: Do you feel comfortable with them? Is their pricing clear?
Remember: This is about building a sustainable marketing engine and capability, not an overnight miracle. The consultant helps you build it smarter and better from the start.
Your Next Step: Making the Right Choice for YOUR Business
So, what’s the best path for your SME? There’s no single “right” answer. Think about:
- Your most pressing marketing need right now.
- Your realistic budget for the next 6-12 months.
- How much time you personally can invest in guiding a new hire.
- Your long-term vision for your marketing capability.
Choosing how to get marketing help is a big step, but it’s also an exciting one!
Our Final Pep Talk: You've Got This!
Growing your business means you’re doing something right! Getting the right marketing support – whether it’s a bright newbie you nurture, a seasoned expert who guides, or that powerful hybrid combo – is just the next smart step.
Focus on finding people (or a partner) who genuinely get your mission, understand your market, and are committed to helping you succeed. By making an informed choice now, you’re setting your business up for even greater things. Go make those Smarter and Better moves!
Feeling clearer? If you’d like to explore how a GSB consultant can fit into your growth plans