How to pick your agency’s PM software [Step-by-Step Guide]

by Karl Sakas | Dec 11, 2019 | Build a Stronger Team, Benchmarking & Optimization, Work Less Earn More

An agency owner asked me: “What PM software do you recommend? We’re in the process of switching from our current system.” She was considering Basecamp for client-facing and internal communication, and she planned to continue using FunctionFox for...

Why most agencies should avoid startup clients

by Karl Sakas | Nov 20, 2019 | Strengthen Client Relationships, Benchmarking & Optimization

Should your agency avoid startup clients? Probably. Many agency owners like working with startups, because startups are usually fun, magnetic, and interesting—and your agency’s work can make a huge impact. Unfortunately, startups are structurally problematic,...

Worried about going on leave? Do a Stress Test (or two) first!

by Karl Sakas | Nov 13, 2019 | Prepare to Sell, Work Less Earn More

As business owners, we rarely take enough time away from work—especially an extended planned absence. “Extended leave” might translate to taking an extra-long vacation—or a month or more for a sabbatical or parental leave. Other times, our extra time away...

New CMO at your client? We can predict what’ll happen next!

by Karl Sakas | Nov 6, 2019 | Strengthen Client Relationships

There’s an old joke about executive turnover: “When a new CEO starts, they have three ‘jobs’ to do: Hire someone, fire someone, and rearrange the furniture.” When your client’s boss changes, you may not see all three every...

Stop whipsawing your team with TOO continuous improvement

by Karl Sakas | Oct 30, 2019 | Build a Stronger Team, Personal Growth & Development, Strengthen Client Relationships

Continuous improvement helps you make your agency better—but be careful about trying to improve things too quickly. Why? You’ll frustrate your team—and your clients and prospects—because they’ll feel whipsawed as they try to keep up. A cautionary tale in...