Hop Skip Media

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I own a service company specializing in fixing Sub-Zero & Wolf refrigerators and ovens, a high-end refrigerator appliance brand. It’s a highly competitive industry, especially in the ad space.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Hop Skip Media?

I managed my Google Ads account for a decade. Google has gotten expensive to the point where you don’t believe it, so I wanted to hire a professional to manage my account and ensure I was on the right track. I wanted someone to handle the expensive advertising I shell out daily.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Initially, we gave Hop Skip Media access to our advertising account. They’ve taken it over to manage it, make changes, and create new campaigns. We already knew what worked in terms of keywords, but they’ve operated behind the scenes setting up things that we didn’t do as a small business, such as setting up and tracking conversions to understand what we’re paying.

We only advertise on Google, and they’ve been responsible for some ad copy. We didn’t hire them for that, but we’ve had a good balance between controlling the account while they assist and stay on top of things. Additionally, they’ve set up new features and style advertisements that Google offers.

What is the team composition?

They have a team segmented into Google Ads specialists and customer-facing representatives. Idris (Director of Sales & Marketing) is our representative, and Natalie (Account Manager) backs him up. We keep in touch with him, and she’s the one who communicates the technical data. Also, Ameet (Founder) pops in periodically.

How did you come to work with Hop Skip Media?

I found them on Instagram while looking for tips, tricks, and help with my Google Ads account. Ameet posted periodically about Google Ads, and I felt  I could trust her. It just seemed like a good fit.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent between $25,000–$30,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with them in November 2021. At the moment, we’ve put a pause for the summer. We’ll use them in the coming months to tune up.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Our monthly conversions are way up. We didn't track conversions before working with them, and now we have a clear picture of how much and how we’re spending our money on Google. Overall, we’ve gained a lot of insight from them — we see our business as a whole. 

How did Hop Skip Media perform from a project management standpoint?

Our budget has gone up because we’re getting more work. We usually communicate through Google Meet and email.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Their entire team is very front-facing, personable, and open about who they are and what they do with their business. We don’t see that with many ad agencies — there’s a dark cloak over it. Other people don’t share information, but Hop Skip Media is honest about what they do and how they do it. What sets them apart is that they’re an open book.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, they’ve done great. 

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Enjoy working with them; they’re worth every penny. If you have any questions about Google Ads, advertising, or your budget, they’ll clarify those things for you.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Spiro's is a third-generation restaurant specializing in authentic Greek cuisine as well as all the Canadian favourites. Spiro (founder) branched out in the 1990's and created two unique products, Spiro's Secret Sauce and Spiro's Greek Dressing that have become famous within our area.

In 2020, I decided as the third generation, to take the products and start getting them on store shelves across Canada as well as offer them as a product for purchase online. I have since taken the position of "Partner" and wholesale and marketing director.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Hop Skip Media, and what were your goals?

We hired Hop Skip Media to help facilitate our Facebook ads and keep our analytics in check. Our goals are to hit at least a 2.0 ROAS, fix any discrepancies on the website, and to create a seamless customer experience.

SOLUTION

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

We were recommended Hop Skip Media after a very toxic experience with a previous agency. I was immediately drawn to the fact that they are in close proximity to us, which made it feel like I was supporting local vs. using a large agency in a city far away. I was impressed with their kindness and immediate interest in our business, which set them apart from the get-go.

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

Digital marketing, content creation, analytics, and bi-weekly check-ins. They use Google Teams as well as other Google sharing platforms.

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

I've had the pleasure of working with Idris directly, which has been a wonderful experience. He is personal, inspiring, and totally relatable! I have also been corresponding with Natalie who shares SO much insight in ways that I can actually understand, which is such a bonus!

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Although the results aren't where I would like them to be yet, the team is working HARD to get them there and I appreciate that!

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

We have bi-weekly meetings to talk about campaigns, results, feedback, and next steps.

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

They offer large-scale deliverables with small-company service. It feels like I'm their only client, which is so impressive to me.

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

I wish it didn't take so long to figure out performance logistics, but I believe that's more of a Facebook inadequacy than a Hop Skip issue. Data takes a little longer to retrieve then learn from.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the Communications Assistant in the largest organization that provides subsidized and affordable housing to low income seniors in Alberta.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Hop Skip Media, and what were your goals?

As a non-profit we were able to receive $10,000/month in free Google Advertising. I was trying to create the ads by my self and by tools found on the internet but was unsuccessful in creating the campaigns.

SOLUTION

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

I saw Ameet present at a social media conference a few years back and was very interested in the topics she was discussing.

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

Our goal was very simple - to set up a well performing Google Ad Campaign and to expand out reach in the market.

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

I worked with just one person, Ameet, the founder.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We didn't have any specific measurables as we had never done Google ads before, but we had hoped we would get a fair bit of clicks and impressions.

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

Ameet was always very responsive when we emailed back and fourth and let me know if something was going to take a little bit longer.

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

They were great to work with. They were friendly, professional, and so easy to work with. They answered the many questions we had and were able to walk us through every part of Google Ads to ensure we had a well-performing campaign! They went above and beyond for us

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

None.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Realty Unleashed is an independent Real Estate Brokerage with a unique and unprecedented service offering that helps home sellers sell their homes with free, practical, service such as home staging, lawn trimming, cleaning, etc. I am a partner and co-founder.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Hop Skip Media, and what were your goals?

We hired Hop Skip Media to run various ad campaigns. Our goal was both brand awareness (Social Media) and conversions (google ads) + to have consumers contact us when they encounter our ads + require our services.

SOLUTION

How did you select Hop Skip Media and what were the deciding factors?

We had a personal relationship with the founder.

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

The scope of the work was creating and executing campaigns using our brand assets as well as creating a list of google ad words that are relevant to our audience.

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

We worked 2 people.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We definitely got a lot of exposure and click throughs. However, because choosing a real estate brokerage is a big decision, we found that our bounce rate on our website was very poor for PPC type ads. We think this type of advertising is better for consumables and didn't make sense for us.

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

Hop Skip Media did a great job explaining timelines and deliverables. Their monthly report is extremely clear and contains valuable information easily.

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

I found that their is service very personal! Which I preferred because I don't have a very high ad campaign acumen.

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

No. I think they did great.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the CEO of a creative/social media agency.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Ameet Khabra Marketing Inc?

We brought on Ameet and her team to help run the paid social wing of our business. She helps manage the paid channels for our clients.

What were your goals for this project?

To find a trustworthy partner. We wanted a team that matched our core principles, and they do just that.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We found them via personal referral.

Describe the project in detail.

We started off doing PPC for one client and that quickly manifested into two, then three, then four, etc. The ROAS has been solid, and that's caused more intrigue from our clients.

What was the team composition?

We work with Ameet directly and then she brings in her team members for specific tasks when needed.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We have grown the ad spend of the accounts we're working on, and continued to get more clients in the door. That's a success if you ask me!

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

We use Trello to do 90% of our communication. Other than that (which has been good) we meet every two to three weeks.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

I'm impressed by how down to earth and approachable the team is. They have done their best to help me understand what they're doing and why it's beneficial to our clients.

Are there any areas for improvement?

The only area I would suggest improving is the aesthetic of the reports. However, that's a minor detail and ultimately doesn't really affect the outcomes.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Daytona Homes is a homebuilder and developer with over 25 years experience, building homes in 7 cities across western Canada. I was the digital marketing manager overseeing all aspects of the digital strategy and implementing campaigns and structure around digital platforms, chat, online lead development and sales enablement.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Ameet Khabra Marketing Inc?

We brought Ameet on to manage our monthly PPC ads and to be our executor for all digital ad campaigns that would take flight through the high seasons.

What were your goals for this project?

Improve overall web traffic, grow leads to our chat system, improve sales and increase showhome traffic.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

Ameet is one of the most recognized PPC professionals in Alberta, if not western Canada. She is visible, willing to offer advice, and she is active online.

Describe the scope of their work in detail.

We needed PPC expertise to assist us with executing many campaigns we have in flight throughout the year. Ameet helped us plot and plan the direction, helped on crafting ad sets, executed the strategy and monitored and maintained the ads throughout the duration of the campaign

What was the team composition?

Our primary contact was always Ameet. She had folks on her team, but generally, we engaged with her directly

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We more than tripled our overall campaign conversions (without additional spend) in the first year of working together, and now we track those conversions across the entire customer journey through a technology stack that is being used across our divisions.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Excellent. We weren’t always easy on her team, as we had to spool up campaigns on the fly last minute, especially as real estate news would change the homebuilding/home-buying landscape. She remained flexible, positive and patient.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Ameet never gave us the impression that we were lesser or more than any other client. Consistent service, consistently improving results.

Are there any areas for improvement?

Most of that was on our end. We could have given her more and been better prepared, especially since we had such bad experiences with other "full service" agencies.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Institute of Child Psychology; Co-Founder

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Ameet Khabra Marketing Inc?

CPC advertising

What were your goals for this project?

Increase sales and ad reach

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

Reference from another local company

Describe the scope of their work in detail.

Ameet takes ads that I've created and optimizes them to reach as many consumers as possible.

What was the team composition?

Originally Ameet was doing the majority of the work, but now she has someone else handling our accounts, Martin, who is wonderful.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Ameet met a majority of the goals we set. Marketing Ecommerce in the US is a tricky thing and she was very honest about the process.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Communication with she and her team is very vigilant and prompt. Thorough feedback is always given.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

The flexibility with changing markets. They go with the flow and are not rigid in terms of changing course if need be. Takes feedback very well when given

Are there any areas for improvement?

There are times I would like more guidance in terms of where we want to be in marketing and making suggestions when a plan is not executing as well as we would like.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the owner and operator a collective marketing hub. I offer business and brand strategies for small business owners.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Ameet Khabra Marketing Inc?

Ameet helped me with my PPC campaign to launch my online course. The goal was to acquire the right number of participants to launch successfully.

What were your goals for this project?

The goal was to get 50 online participants for the launch date.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

I had been following Ameet online for some time before making the decision to reach out to her.

Describe the project in detail.

I needed a team of people to help me build a plan & execute a PPC campaign to find participants for my online program. The goal was to get 50 participants. We successfully reached that goal.

What was the team composition?

I worked directly with Ameet to make the plan. Her team executed on the strategy.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

I was able to successfully reach my number and exceed it by 7 participants.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

It was easy to communicate with Ameet. She stayed on top of all the tasks and kept me accountable in submitting details for execution.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Customer experience was great. If I didn't understand something or needed guidance, Ameet was really good to take the time and reply.

Are there any areas for improvement?

Honestly, after having some really terrible experiences in the past with experts who were more focused on making money from me than getting me results, I'd say this experience was pretty great.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I'm a licensed mortgage broker with Axiom Mortgage Solutions.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Ameet Khabra Marketing Inc.?

I was pretty exasperated with people not knowing what they were doing, and spending money on unqualified resources. I needed a reliable partner to help with my marketing efforts.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

When I met Ameet, I agreed to a sixty-day term for her to assess my account and take action. She does Google Ads management for me, which includes managing my landing page, driving traffic to my pages, and helping me get more leads.

What is the team composition?

Ameet (President & PPC Specialist, Ameet Khabra Marketing Inc.) is my main point of contact.

How did you come to work with Ameet Khabra Marketing Inc?

She believes in her work and the value that she brings to her clients. She was determined to convince me that she wasn't like the other companies that had wasted my money, which is why I decided to give her a try.

How much have you invested with them?    

We've spent approximately $4,000 thus far.

What is the status of this engagement?

We began working together in October 2019, and our engagement is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

She understood my frustrations and was able to stay true to her word by doing her job. I've seen a huge improvement in the quality of my leads. With the last company I worked with, the emails weren't even coming to me directly, so she was able to fix that. If she asked me to sign a contract now, I probably would.

How did Ameet Khabra Marketing Inc perform from a project management standpoint?

She's not in my area, so we communicate over the phone and by email. She manages things so well that unless I have changes or I'm adding a new landing page, we don’t need more communication than that. I don't see any issues right now.

What did you find most impressive about them?

She's true to her commitment.  When she says she'll do the job, she does it well. She understands the business, and when she took me on as a client, I was her first mortgage broker. She actually engaged a counterpart of hers to learn more about my industry to help me more and build our relationship. She's eager to learn and is very well connected with others in her field and they play off of each other's strengths.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I don't see anything right now, and if I did I would just address it with her. I've been working with her for four months and I don't see any areas for her to improve.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

My advice is to be very thorough in what you're looking for.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the owner of Throwdown Social Media, a digital marketing agency in Edmonton, Alberta that focuses solely on social media and content marketing. As a Social Media Consultant and Strategist, through speaking at conferences and industry events, custom workshops, online courses and products, I help small to medium B2B and B2C businesses get leads and conversions from their social media.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Ameet Khabra Marketing Inc?

I was launching an online product and hired Ameet Khabra to implement Facebook advertising. I have done Facebook advertising myself in the past, but wanted an objective 3rd party to handle it for me for this particular project/product.

What were your goals for this project?

I wanted to drive traffic to a specific landing page and gather emails for lead nurturing.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

I wanted someone I was familiar with to help me. I know some fantastic and talented marketers but it was almost a no brainer to choose to work with Ameet. I have worked with Ameet previously at a digital marketing agency here in Edmonton, previous to that I saw Ameet present at an online marketing conference in Edmonton.

Describe the project in detail.

The scope was to create Facebook Ads to drive traffic to a custom landing page that would collect email addresses in exchange for a lead magnet. I provided some copy ideas and imagery to Ameet for the advertising but as for the strategy, implementation and optimization, that was all her.

What was the team composition?

Ameet was the only person I spoke with and worked with on this project.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

With my very small budget and very short time frame for the ads, Ameet surpassed my expectations. With the ads she launched I was able to obtain over 500 email addresses. She was able to maximize my budget and use it to reach my ideal audience.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

We used email and Slack to communicate. Ameet was very communicative and easy to get a hold of and answered my many questions.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Aside from the results, Ameet was SO easy to work with. I appreciated her no BS personality and she didn't sugar coat or over promise results. She is very straightforward and to the point which is something I like because time is valuable. I have worked with marketers in the past that are all "talk" but no "action" and Ameet is an actual DOER which is so important.

Are there any areas for improvement?

There were no areas that needed improvement. She was quick, diligent, thought ahead and used common sense when it came to implementing the PPC ads I required.