Independent Agency Selection (IAS)

“Understanding an agency is much more than reading a set of credentials,” says Johanna McDowell, CEO of the IAS. Johanna explains what intermediaries look for, and why the intimate understanding of agencies is key to their success. #intermediary #agencyknowledge Johanna McDowell Nikki Munsie

💥💥💥AdForum Global Summit 2024 Paris - Overview 💥💥💥 Johanna McDowell, Independent Agency Search and Selection (IAS) CEO, who is currently in Paris attending the AdForum Worldwide Summit running 28-31 Oct 2024, will be tracking and sharing news and insights.  Take a listen as to which agencies will be presenting this time round. AdForum is a unique and hyper-focused event for agency CEOs to present their strategy and vision to the world's leading search and management consultancies. IAS is proud to be representing SA and Africa at this summit. Look out for exclusive pieces to be shared on industry sites. Be sure not to miss the IAS AdForum Masterclass 22 January #AdForumSummit #AdForumSummit2024 Nikki Munsie Philippe Paget MarkLives.com The Financial Mail Redzone South Africa Bizcommunity.com Glenda Nevill

The Zeigarnik effect has shown that the cognitive tension that arises from a task being unfinished improves cognitive accessibility, because our brains are more likely to recall tasks that were left unfinished than those that were completed. Mark Ritson explores how the use of this technique can be helpful to building brands as it attracts attention, improves brand recall and discourse. What are your thoughts? https://lnkd.in/eqVc9AF3 #brandbuilding Johanna McDowell Nikki Munsie

Vicky Gillian of the AAR Group UK, shares her thoughts around the value of long term client:agency relationships. Read more 👇🏻 https://lnkd.in/ekHEMhNb #agencyrelationships Johanna McDowell Nikki Munsie

"While the outcome of every pitch is generally the same, every pitch process is different. One size does not fit all, and 18 years of experience will show there’s more insight and instinct required to get the match right than what is revealed by checking an agency’s credentials." says Johanna McDowell, CEO of the IAS. #pitches Johanna McDowell Nikki Munsie

💥AGENCY CREDENTIALS AWARD FINALISTS ANNOUNCED💥 IAS is happy to announce the finalists for the IAS Agency Credentials Award in conjunction with the Assegai Awards. CONGRATULATIONS to: 📢 Boomtown 📢Ogilvy We wish you all the best for the final judging. #AssegaiAwards2024 #IASCredentialsAward Johanna McDowell Nikki Munsie

The role of the intermediary is as varied as the clients they have. Johanna McDowell, CEO of the IAS, highlights things to consider before the process of finding the client's best strategic partner even begins, namely the client's story. #intermediary #pitchconsultant #listen Johanna McDowell Nikki Munsie

Lisa Colantuono, President, AAR Partners - Agency Search Consultancy based in NYC, shares some thoughts around considerations when searching for an agency. "💥 We know what sounds like a simple little matchmaking process can easily turn into a complex, expensive and time-consuming ordeal. Here are a few reasons why an agency search is often more complicated than it seems… 👇🏻 1. Diverse Expertise: Agencies often specialize in various niches—digital marketing, public relations, content creation, and more. Identifying the right blend of skills to meet your specific needs can be challenging. 2. Cultural Fit: Beyond skills, the agency's culture must align with your brand's values. A misalignment can lead to friction and ineffective collaboration. 3. Evolving Landscape: The agency landscape is constantly changing, with new technologies and trends emerging regularly. Finding an agency that stays ahead of the curve is essential but can be tricky. 4. Client Relationships: Every agency has a portfolio of clients. Understanding their client relationships and how they manage them can be critical to ensuring they will prioritize your needs. 5. Budget Considerations: Balancing quality and cost is a perennial challenge. The cheapest option may not deliver the results you want, while top-tier agencies may stretch your budget thin. 6. Measuring Success: Different agencies have various metrics for success. Ensuring they align with your goals from the outset is crucial for a fruitful partnership." An intermediary's role is always to simplify the process for the client. Considering going out to pitch? Contact the IAS who will help you find your best fit agency. Johanna McDowell Nikki Munsie 

Finding the right fit between marketer and agency is not just a matter of swiping right or left, but more like an old-fashioned tinderbox - which could light your fire or burst into flames🔥 The IAS prides itself on a tailor-made pitch process that's carefully struck to ignite the perfect spark. Read more 👇🏻 https://lnkd.in/dCR98NK5

What a pleasure to talk to these industry leaders yesterday about the AdFocus Partnership Award and why it is has been sponsored by Independent Agency Selection (IAS) for so many years. Some excellent input from all.