First Rate Marketing

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Train Primal is an online personal training company focusing on delivering training programmes and 1-1 coaching as well as producing audio and video educational/entertainment content. My main role is director of the company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire First Rate Marketing, and what were your goals?

Our first website was initially created using WIX as an easy/cost-effective way of creating an online presence. While rebranding we wanted to have a more professional/clean presence and ensure that things like SEO were taken care of. We hired FRM for an entire website redesign with the primary goal being ranking higher on Google.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

The reason we chose WIX, to begin with, was the low cost (monthly payments) as a small business this was ideal. So when we decided we needed an "upgrade" we were ideally looking for something similar but without the "do it yourself" approach. First Rate Marketing ticked all the boxes.

A reasonable upfront fee with an ongoing monthly cost ensures constant support and help with any future changes. Apart from the cost another factor that helped us choose these guys was the focus on the "backend" Something often neglected - if the website looks good it's great right? Apparently not, FRM made it a priority to ensure that things like Google ranking and user experience were prioritised.

Describe the scope of work in detail, including the project steps, key deliverables, and technologies used.

We had an initial design meeting where I and the lead website designer explored competitor offerings and discussed what I liked and didn't like and using this information he got to work on a first draft. The job was an entire website build so I was required to provide numerous pieces of media for the new site. This was done using cloud storage which made it really easy.

How many people from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

Our main point of contact was Sean, one of the team's website designers and he is still our "go-to guy" for any issues/changes that need doing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any measurable outcomes of the project or general feedback about the deliverables?

After launching we have seen an increased ranking in Google already and website speed has increased. Using GTmatrix it shows that our "fully loaded time" is now 2.8 seconds whereas before it was over 10 seconds so this is a huge increase! While this may have not been obvious to the user, Google uses this data when ranking.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

We had numerous meetings via Zoom and would occasionally communicate over email. It was a very stress-free process on our end. We were told a timeframe and kept updated when necessary. All timings were met so no complaints there.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

How they managed to do literally everything we wanted - perhaps we underestimated their ability but in some cases, we were asking for quite technical design things and it clearly wasn't a problem and didn't affect the timelines at all.

Since starting we've also loved the swiftness in response to emails etc. If we've had an issue or needed a change we've had a response and estimated timeframe within 24 hours every single time. In most cases, the actual issue/change had been done within 24 hours. I think having the monthly sub-model really helps ensure this premium ongoing support.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

I really can't fault them. We've asked and they've delivered every single time without delay. Brilliant.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

OMG Brand Story is a brand development consulting agency designed to unleash purpose-driven brands. We dare business owners to believe in the power of their story and then help them develop their brand voice and visual identity by waking up the heart of their brand. As the CEO and Chief Brand Strategist, it is my vision to create more meaningful, inclusive, and engaging brand experiences for all through our work at OMG Brand Story.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire First Rate Marketing?

Our website was created "in-house" as a start-up business, and with rapid growth over our first two years, we knew that we had to create a significant improvement in our online brand presence. While we owned the voice and the visual components, our expertise was not in web design and development, and it certainly was not in SEO optimization. Through a mutual business colleague, we were thankfully introduced to First Rate Marketing and have never looked back.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

We're a fast-paced, fun, and charismatic group who loves to work with other brands who share our values and bring some magic and synergy to the project.

We can find excellent web designers anywhere, but could we find the excellent web geniuses who were the right fit for our brand? Could we find those elusive and savage unicorn bad asses who could hang with the best of us? Indeed, we could.

Our initial interactions with First Rate Marketing were top-notch, professional, fun, engaging, and meaningful. They "got" us, and we knew it would be a perfect match to meet our needs on all fronts.

Describe the project in detail and walk through the stages of the project.

After an initial consultative meeting where they got to know us and we got to speak to their designers about our style and expectations, we were provided a few design options within a week's time. They were stellar and make it difficult to choose the direction - which is always a great problem to have.

They were able to quickly take our likes and inquiries to create a phenomenal design that was reflective of our energy, representative of our brand, and aligned with our forward vision of the company. We provided the necessary copy and feedback along the process, and after a few short weeks, they delivered an outstanding site. Every interaction was polished, yet sincere and always a pleasure. The team offered an elevated experience that exceeded our expectations.

How many resources from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

We worked with three different individuals; however, we were assigned one designer to handle the entire process which was a huge plus for us. It made communication fluid and easy. Our initial contact, Sam, was generous with his time, knowledge, and expertise, and he made it easy to understand the overall process. Our web designer, Sean, was an absolute gem, eager to support our needs and incredibly responsive.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Our site has brought in an flurry of positive comments about how much it reflects our brand energy and personality. Our clients love how fun and easy it is for them to engage with us via the site, and we love it, too! In addition, we are finally ranking on Google! That's a huge win for us, as our "in-house" efforts never made a dent with SEO.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The workflow was outstanding, and communication was fluid and easy. Communication was always open, and they were extremely responsive. There was never any doubt or concern regarding timing or updates. We loved their attention to detail and attentiveness to our inquiries and needs. Most importantly, they were able to execute requests effectively and expeditiously.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

First Rate Marketing is the perfect combination of professionalism, expertise, and charisma. They are easy to work with, a trusted resource for all things web design and SEO optimization, and just damn good people.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

The quality and level of attention given throughout the entire process could not have been improved. It was a wonderful experience.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m an independent travel agent. I’ve created an agency, and my website will encourage people to do quotes for me so I can call a date to them.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with First Rate Marketing?

I was new to website development, so I didn’t know anything about it. I needed help with web development.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Initially, we scheduled a time. Since I work in hospitality, my schedule changes every single week. We started about eight weeks ago, and First Rate Marketing did the development from scratch. They built the whole website in seven weeks.

What is the team composition?

I was in contact with Samuel (Director) for the first two weeks. He then introduced me to someone else who was equally brilliant. They both brought me to reality when I talked about all the amazing things I wanted. Then, they’d come back with a better solution.

How did you come to work with First Rate Marketing?

I came across them online. Then, I did a marketing event where I spoke to a couple of friends. Samuel gave me a phone call and went step by step. He really wanted to help and make sure my business went well.

How much have you invested with them?

We spent around $4,500.

What is the status of this engagement?

Our partnership was from April–May 2022.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

I have an Excel spreadsheet with 50–100 people to send out whatever I do. If I have something promotional like a logo or slogan, I have these people to get constructive criticism and keep it private. I sent the website out to everybody I knew would give me trustworthy feedback, and they came back saying it looked amazing.

How did First Rate Marketing perform from a project management standpoint?

We had a meeting every week to discuss the progress via Microsoft Teams. Also, they were very accommodating. The team always made sure that the time was good for both of us, and they were very patient with me.

What did you find most impressive about them?

I’ve been in situations where I don’t know much about a subject as someone else, and other companies have made me uncomfortable. However, First Rate Marketing never did that — they made me feel comfortable in any situation. By weeks 3–4, I felt like I had made friends.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I don’t have any negative comments about them. 

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Do it.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Owner of Game Day Vision

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

we provide volunteers to help disabled football supporters attend matches

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire First Rate Marketing to accomplish?

• to build a functional website to help recruit new volunteers and clients

SOLUTION

How did you find First Rate Marketing?

• Online Search
• we worked in the same building

Why did you select First Rate Marketing over others?

• High ratings
• Close to my geographic location
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from First Rate Marketing were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

The team were extremely helpful with the design process. I am registered blind so found their descriptions extremely helpful. The staff are all very welcome and approachable and easy to deal with

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

The website is now functioning and we are getting good traffic with both new volunteers and clients coming through

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Yes all deadlines were met . They exceeded expectations and always kept me informed

What was your primary form of communication with First Rate Marketing?

• In-Person Meeting
• Virtual Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

they really understood our goals. We offer quite a unique service so I feel like they really understood what we're trying to achieve

Are there any areas for improvement or something First Rate Marketing could have done differently?

I would say that from my experience the service was very good and have no complaints

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Director of a recruitment consulting company 

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Recruitment 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire First Rate Marketing to accomplish?

• Branding and website development.

SOLUTION

How did you find First Rate Marketing?

Referral

Why did you select First Rate Marketing over others?

• High ratings
• Pricing fit our budget
• Great culture fit

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Development of multiple branding strategies along with development of key digital marketing strategies. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Uplift in key KPI's

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Kept in regular contact throughout project lifecycle. 

What was your primary form of communication with First Rate Marketing?

In-Person Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Their personal service was unique

Are there any areas for improvement or something First Rate Marketing could have done differently?

No

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Lead sales & Marketing Administrator of Outdoor Living Design

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Silverland Stone supplies a wide range of natural stone, porcelain, and landscaping products for gardens, patios, and outdoor spaces.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire First Rate Marketing to accomplish?
To develop the marketing strategy for our whole business both online and offline.

SOLUTION

How did you find First Rate Marketing?

Online Search

Why did you select First Rate Marketing over others?

• High ratings
• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost

How many teammates from First Rate Marketing were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

The scope of work involved a comprehensive digital marketing strategy that included PPC, SEO, and lead generation, leveraging both the website and offline marketing channels. Key deliverables included targeted PPC campaigns tailored to the market and highest-margin clients, innovative and cost-effective concepts that differed from typical agency approaches, and a focus on SEO to enhance online visibility and drive leads. Their approach stood out because they went beyond standard strategies, offering creative solutions that were both budget-friendly and highly effective in achieving significant results.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

• Increase in inbound leads through the website 
• Increase in walk-ins from the direct to consumer marketing plan they did

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

The project management was excellent; the team provided a detailed, actionable timeline with key stages, which kept us fully informed about each step and what to expect next. They were highly responsive to our schedule and consistently accommodated our needs, even handling last-minute requests without hesitation. For instance, they quickly adjusted their plans when we needed a sudden change in the campaign direction due to a shift in market conditions. They delivered the revised strategy beforehand, demonstrating their flexibility and commitment to our success.

What was your primary form of communication with First Rate Marketing?

• In-Person Meeting
• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

What impressed us most about this company was their ability to come up with unexpected yet highly effective ideas. For example, they developed a very low-cost leaflet marketing campaign targeting affluent local homes, which generated a great deal of buzz about our high-ticket items. This approach resulted in a significant increase in walk-ins and ultimately boosted our sales.

Are there any areas for improvement or something First Rate Marketing could have done differently?

There aren't any areas for improvement that come to mind; I was thoroughly impressed with their work at every step!

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Director of Carew

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Life Insurance broker

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire First Rate Marketing to accomplish?

• Create an amazing looking website that ranks well and excels in performance

SOLUTION

How did you find First Rate Marketing?

Online Search

Why did you select First Rate Marketing over others?

• High ratings
• Pricing fit our budget
• Great culture fit

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

• They really helped me bring my vision to life, guided me through the journey, and made it a reality.
• I would highly recommend them.
• The pricing is excellent for the quality of work.
• They really pay attention to detail.
• They provided me with a modern branding plan and of course the website.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Quality of work for the time frame.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

They delivered on time and always checked in to make sure I was happy with the revisions. They also gave me ideas at times when I felt stuck.

What was your primary form of communication with First Rate Marketing?

• In-Person Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Their unique customer service

Are there any areas for improvement or something First Rate Marketing could have done differently?

None at all!

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Business Relationship Manager of BGI International

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Investment Hunters for the disruptive tech community

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire First Rate Marketing to accomplish?

• Improver our brand
• Develop a slick website that mirrored our valus
• Increase and optimise SEO

SOLUTION

How did you find First Rate Marketing?

Referral

Why did you select First Rate Marketing over others?

• Great culture fit
• Referred to me
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from First Rate Marketing were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

• Develop branding to apply  to our corporate message and values in conjunction with developing a slick and functional web site.
• Simultaneosly develop and execute an SEO strategy

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

High level of pace without compromise on any objectives previously described:

• Right solution
• On time
• On budget

All of which have been achieved.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

As per previos answer...

What was your primary form of communication with First Rate Marketing?

Virtual Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

The team's personability, understanding of our culture, and their care and passion for our project impressed us.

Are there any areas for improvement or something First Rate Marketing could have done differently?

No, the whole experience has been re-assuringly flawless.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Founder & Video Producer of Nomady's

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Bespoke, digital video and photo content creation

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire First Rate Marketing to accomplish?

• Branding my business to reflect a semi-nomadic, personal digital media brand
• A unique website showing my key services and specialisms
• Marketing Strategy

SOLUTION

How did you find First Rate Marketing?

Online Search

Why did you select First Rate Marketing over others?

• High ratings
• Pricing fit our budget
• Good value for cost
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from First Rate Marketing were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

They designed my branding, implemented this branding in to my unique, tailored website and used this to provide a marketing strategy.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

A stunning and bespoke website that impresses clients both new and former, and guidance to help me build and utilise my marketing strategy as a business.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

They were highly organized, very communicative, and quick to address any issues I had.

What was your primary form of communication with First Rate Marketing?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

What I found the most impressive was the attention to detail and the interaction, it was very professional and attentive, whilst having that personal touch which made me feel like a unique, individual client they were fully invested in.

Are there any areas for improvement or something First Rate Marketing could have done differently?

N/A

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Business Owner of Cloudsource Recruitment

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Recruitment of digital and e-commerce professionals

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire First Rate Marketing to accomplish?

• Website Design
• Optimised for SEO

SOLUTION

How did you find First Rate Marketing?

Other

Why did you select First Rate Marketing over others?

• High ratings
• Pricing fit our budget
• Good value for cost

What was the size of First Rate Marketing’s team?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

The team at First Rate Marketing went the extra mile and then another one just for good measure. After taking the time to fully understand what I was looking, they designed various iterations of websites all of which were high quality and optimised and structured for SEO. They are friendly and easy to deal with, highly responsive and deliver on their promises. If you want something more than a templated site without it costing fortune, you'd be doing yourself a big favour using First Rate Marketing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

• Excellent Website designed on time and within budget
• Generating lots of high quality candidates

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Highly responsive and stuck to their promises.

What was your primary form of communication with First Rate Marketing?

Virtual Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

• Friendly
• responsive
• efficient
• genuinely cared about outcomes

Are there any areas for improvement or something First Rate Marketing could have done differently?

Not really