Outsource PPC: How To Find and Work With PPC Management Services

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Running PPC campaigns in-house can feel haphazard, if not managed properly. Costs creep up, algorithms shift, new features roll out (and sometimes roll back), and before you know it, you’re spending more time troubleshooting ad performance than actually growing your business.

Managing PPC properly takes a mix of deep platform expertise, constant optimization, and more hours than most teams have to spare. And if you’re stretching resources too thin, you’re not just burning ad spend but also leaving serious revenue on the table.

That’s where outsourcing PPC comes in.

When done right, a PPC management service doesn’t just “run your ads”—they become an extension of your team, bringing data-backed strategies, ad creatives that convert, and real-time optimizations that keep your ROI on track.

In this guide, I’ll cover:

  • How to know when it’s time to outsource PPC; 
  • How to choose the right PPC partnerx; and 
  • How to get the most out of your partnership.


Let’s dive in.

When to outsource PPC

You don’t always have to handle pay-per-click (PPC) campaigns in-house, especially if your team gets stretched too thin. Sometimes, shifting this responsibility to external experts, like PPC specialists or PPC agencies, is the best step to take. 

Here are some scenarios in which outsourcing PPC campaigns is the smart move:

1. Declining performance

At MarketerHire, we helped a brand that offers premium protein powders and motorcycle/custom car giveaways hire a PPC expert. 

At the time, the two brothers who owned the brand paid $10,000 in agency fees and spent a staggering $500 every day on ads. Yet, their efforts only yielded a disappointing $5,000 in revenue.

This scenario perfectly illustrates declining performance. If you’re increasing your ad spend, but you're not seeing a corresponding improvement in key metrics like click-through rates, conversion rates, or overall ROI, there’s a problem. This indicates that your current PPC strategy might be misaligned or inefficient, leading to wasted budget and lost opportunities.

Instead of continuing down this costly path, outsourcing your PPC campaigns lets you hire external experts who analyze data, identify inefficiencies, and implement fresh strategies that turn performance around.

These two brothers did exactly that. They reached out to us, and we paired them with Bobby, a paid social marketing expert. 

Bobby analyzed their situation, identified the inefficiencies in their approach, and mapped out a tailored PPC strategy, which started yielding great results almost immediately.

2. In-house limitations

If your team is juggling multiple PPC marketing channels and struggling to give PPC the attention it needs, it’s time to consider an expert. Outsourcing frees your team from being spread too thin, allowing them to focus on what they do best while experts handle the nuances of PPC campaigns. 

This division of labor ensures that every facet of your digital marketing efforts gets the dedicated focus it deserves.

3. Difficulty keeping up with PPC changes

Platforms like Google, Meta, and LinkedIn Ads evolve constantly, introducing new features and updates at a fast pace. Staying on top of these changes can be overwhelming, especially when you’re caught up in the day-to-day activities of running a business.

A dedicated PPC partner stays ahead of the curve, ensuring your campaigns adapt quickly and efficiently to every update.

4. Wasted spending

A leading global clothing brand was spending $1 million a month on platforms like TikTok, Meta, Rauten, YouTube, and programmatic display—but something was missing: clear strategic leadership. Without a dedicated strategist, inefficiencies went unchecked, and despite the hefty budget, the ad performance began to slip. 

The issue wasn’t overspending; it was the lack of a cohesive strategy to guide how and where that money was deployed.

If your PPC campaigns aren’t converting as expected, the problem might not lie in your budget but in your approach. Outsourcing your PPC ads to PPC experts can optimize spend, cut out inefficiencies, and reallocate funds to channels that deliver the best returns.

Realizing their escalating wasted spend, the brand turned to MarketerHire and was connected with David, a paid social media expert. With a proven track record of managing large budgets and boosting return on ad spend (ROAS) from 4X to 7X, David helped the brand refine its strategy, minimize waste, and maximize the return on its advertising investment.

Read: How to Hire a Paid Social Marketer: A Practical Guide to Building High-Performing Ad Campaigns

5. Scaling challenges

As your PPC campaigns grow, managing the increasing complexity becomes a challenge. Scaling PPC advertising efforts requires more sophisticated strategies and PPC tools that your in-house team may not have at their disposal. 

A PPC expert or agency can handle growth and adapt your campaigns to maintain efficiency while exploring new opportunities for expansion.

6. Opportunity cost analysis

Every minute your team spends on managing PPC campaigns is time not spent on other high-impact marketing activities. Outsourcing your PPC ads allows you to reallocate valuable internal resources to strategic initiatives that drive growth. 

By handing off PPC to a trusted expert, you ensure that your team can focus on what truly matters—creativity, customer engagement, and other core areas that fuel business success.

📙 Read: 35 Best PPC Tools to Manage Ad Campaigns in 2025 – Explore top tools to streamline and enhance your PPC strategy.

Case studies: How MarketerHire Has Helped Brands Find PPC Experts

How MarketerHire Has Helped Brands Find PPC Experts

Here are some other instances in which MarketerHire has helped brands find and hire PPC experts: 

A subscription app

A fast-growing subscription app was spending $350K a month on ads across major platforms, paying an agency a standard 15% media-buying fee that sometimes cost them $80K in management alone. 

A deep dive into their detailed reports revealed that the agency was charging roughly $3,000 per hour for just six hours of work each week. With their contract expiring right before peak season in January, the company faced a stark choice: continue burning money or regain control. 

They decided to ditch the bloated agency model and reached out to MarketerHire. Before long, we matched them with Chris, an elite marketer with a proven track record of scaling high-budget campaigns for Fortune 100 companies and top mobile gaming firms. 

After one scoping call, Chris joined the team, eliminating unexplained fees and inefficiencies while ensuring every dollar was well spent.

Quartix UK

With conversion rates dipping and rising ad costs, Sofie knew that hiring the wrong specialist could derail progress for Quartix’s lean, six-person marketing team managing localized campaigns across six countries. 

After past freelancers proved unreliable, Sofie turned to us. Through our custom matching process, we connected her with José, a pre-vetted PPC specialist. Fifteen minutes into the scoping call, Sofie felt confident—"I think he’s the one"—and hired him. 

José immediately started shifting the focus from vanity metrics to revenue by integrating offline conversion tracking, cutting wasted spend on low-value leads, and prioritizing sales-qualified leads to improve ROAS. 

📙 Read: Hiring a PPC Expert? Look for These 13 Skills – Learn the key skills to consider when hiring a PPC professional.

The Real Costs of DIY PPC vs. Outsourcing PPC

Switching from DIY PPC to outsourcing PPC isn’t just about shifting responsibilities—it’s also about rethinking your budget and maximizing every dollar you spend on your campaigns. 

Let’s break this down:

1. The hidden costs of in-house PPC

Running PPC campaigns internally goes far beyond simply launching ads. Training your team takes time and money, and investing in the right tools to analyze and optimize campaigns can add up quickly.

Then there’s the risk of wasted ad spend when strategies miss the mark, not to mention the significant time investment required to stay on top of the platform updates and campaign tweaks. 

These hidden costs often stack up, impacting your campaigns more than you might expect.

2. Common pricing models for outsourced PPC

Outsourcing PPC pricing isn’t a one-size-fits-all scenario—it varies based on your business size, goals, and growth stage. Understanding the differences between these pricing models can help you choose an arrangement that aligns with your strategic needs and budget expectations.

  • Percentage of ad spend

Some PPC experts and agencies operate on a model where they charge a percentage of your total ad spend. For example, if you’re investing $100,000 in PPC campaigns and the fee is set at 10%, you’d pay $10,000. 

This model ties your PPC partner’s incentives to your spending and performance, as they only earn more when your campaigns are actively running. 

This model is especially beneficial if your campaigns are well-optimized, ensuring that every additional dollar spent translates into measurable gains. 

However, it may encourage PPC agencies/experts to increase your spend, so you’ll need to monitor overall efficiency and ensure that increased spending leads to proportionate improvements in ROI.

  • Flat monthly fee

Some PPC specialists and agencies prefer a flat monthly fee, which offers a predictable budgeting framework. With this model, you pay a set amount each month regardless of fluctuations in your ad spend. 

This is ideal if you’re a small to mid-sized business (SMB) that values cost predictability and a consistent level of service. A flat fee arrangement often covers a defined scope of work, including strategy development, daily management, and reporting. 

While this approach simplifies budgeting, you also need to make sure the service level provided justifies the fixed cost, especially if your campaigns scale up over time.

  • Performance-based fee

For high-growth businesses, a performance-based fee model might be the ideal choice. 

In this setup, the expert/agency’s fee is directly linked to measurable outcomes, such as improved conversion rates, lower cost-per-acquisition (CPA), or increased ROAS. Often, there’s a base fee with additional bonuses tied to achieving specific targets. 

This model aligns the partner’s interests with your business goals, as they only benefit when your campaigns deliver tangible results. It’s a compelling option if you want to ensure every dollar spent is driving clear, performance-based value, though it may come with higher variable costs if performance surges.

3. Industry-specific cost considerations

Not all industries are created equal when it comes to PPC marketing. Sectors like legal, finance, and e-commerce typically face higher cost-per-click rates and may also encounter steeper management fees.

If you’re in this field, it means that you need to weigh the benefits of outsourcing PPC marketing even more carefully, as extensive knowledge of PPC advertising can help you navigate the competitive market and drive profitable results. 

📙 Read: Hire a PPC Expert to Manage Paid Marketing in 2025 – Find out how to hire the right expert to manage your paid campaigns effectively.

ROI comparison showing cost savings and improved performance from outsourcing PPC

Businesses that make the switch to outsource PPC management generally experience a drop in wasted ad spend and a noticeable boost in conversion rates. Here’s a table comparing a DIY PPC approach to outsourcing PPC (and the impact on ROI):

Company Size DIY PPC Approach Outsourcing PPC Impact on ROI
Small business (1-10 employees) For a small team, establishing an in-house PPC function usually involves recruiting a junior/entry-level specialist, which can cost between $41,000 and $46,000 annually. This won’t cover extra training and essential tools, so you may want to go for a mid-level expert instead. Hiring a freelance PPC professional typically costs between $500 and $6,000 per month, and they offer flexible, expert support without the burden of full-time overhead. Hiring a freelancer gives you immediate access to specialized skills and agile campaign management, which translates into rapid performance gains and an optimized advertising budget.
Mid-market (1-200 employees) Building an internal PPC team in a mid-market company may involve assembling 2-3 PPC specialists. The average salary of a mid-level PPC expert is $50,000 - $88,000. So, hiring 2-3 may cost between $100,000 and $250,000. If your campaigns scale quickly, they may struggle to keep up with growing demands. Engaging a PPC agency generally costs between $2,000 and $12,000 per month. This agency will typically deliver scalable PPC strategies and advanced analytics to refine campaign performance continuously. Mid-level companies benefit from outsourcing PPC to PPC agencies because it gives them access to a team that specializes in paid ads. It also frees up the internal team to focus on tasks that move the needle toward business growth.
Enterprise (200+ employees) Large organizations may invest up to $1 million (or more) annually in a comprehensive in-house PPC operation. However, managing complex, high-volume PPC campaigns without external help can introduce operational challenges. Partnering with fractional PPC experts or PPC agencies will cost between $20,000 and $60,000 per month, depending on the scale of operations. However, the PPC partner will offer integrated consultancy and expert management suitable for multifaceted campaigns. Outsourcing PPC to an external partner fills in any skill gaps and streamlines operations. This results in incremental gains through data-driven insights and ensures that every advertising dollar contributes to sustained improvements in ROI.


Read:
How to Structure and Manage a Paid Social Media Team

What services should a PPC Management agency provide?

When evaluating a PPC management agency, you should know what digital marketing services they offer. Here are some common services you should look out for: 

1. Campaign strategy and planning

A solid campaign strategy forms the foundation of any successful PPC. 

A skilled agency starts by understanding your unique business goals, target audience, and market dynamics. Then, they craft a bespoke strategy that defines your key performance indicators (KPIs) and outlines a clear roadmap for targeting and bidding. 

This ensures that every campaign is aligned with your brand’s objectives, setting the stage for success right from the start.

2. Account structure and optimization

A PPC agency meticulously sets your campaigns into logical, segmented ad groups based on themes, products, or customer demographics. This structure simplifies management and improves tracking capabilities, which makes iit easier to pinpoint which segments are performing well and which need adjustments.

Continuously optimizing this structure, through refining keywords, ad placements, and budget allocations, ensures that your campaigns remain agile and responsive to market changes.

3. Ad copywriting & testing

A professional PPC agency excels at creating compelling ad copy that speaks directly to your target audience. They understand that every word matters and often invest in A/B testing different versions of headlines, body text, and calls-to-action.

By comparing how variations perform in real-time, they can then fine-tune your ad messaging to drive higher click-through rates and better overall engagement, boosting conversion rates.

4. Bid management and budget allocation

Maximizing your ROAS is about precision in bid management and smart budgeting. A PPC agency uses advanced data analytics and automation tools to set competitive bids for high-value keywords, so you can capture the most profitable opportunities.

They continuously monitor market trends and adjust bids in real-time, so your budget is always allocated where it can deliver the highest impact. This prevents overspending and guarantees that your investment drives the best possible result.

5. Landing page and conversion rate optimization

Driving traffic to your website is just the beginning—the real challenge lies in converting those visitors into customers. PPC agencies work hand in hand with web designers and developers to create landing pages that are not only visually appealing but also optimized for conversions.

They test various elements such as form placements and images to determine the best configuration for converting ad clicks into tangible leads or sales. This approach ensures that the entire customer journey is optimized from the moment an ad is clicked to the final conversion.

6. Transparent reporting and analytics

A reputable PPC agency is transparent and provides clarity and detailed, easy-to-understand reports that break down all key metrics—from impressions and click-through rates to conversions to cost-per-acquisition. They offer insights into what’s working and where there’s room for improvement, allowing you to make data-driven decisions. 

With regular performance at your fingertips, you can confidently adjust your strategy to maximize ongoing results.

📙 Read: How to Structure a High-Performing Paid Search Marketing Team – Discover the ideal team structure for optimizing your paid search efforts.

Types of PPC management services: finding your perfect match

To find the right PPC agency/expert, you’ll need to explore a range of options that cater to your business size, budget, and needs.

Here are different PPC management services that might be the ideal match for your business:

1. Full-service digital marketing agencies

Full-service digital agencies are the best if you need a broader digital marketing strategy that includes SEO services, social media, content marketing, and more under one roof. These agencies' approach ensures that your PPC efforts are aligned with your overall marketing goals and brand messaging across cross-channels for maximum impact.

2. PPC specialists and boutique agencies

If you want dedicated PPC expertise without the overhead of a large agency, PPC specialists and boutique agencies offer a focused solution.

These partners focus solely on pay-per-click advertising, giving them a deep understanding of the nuances and constant changes in PPC marketing platforms. They develop high-performing ad campaigns, test innovative strategies, and adapt quickly to shifts in market trends. 

3. Freelance PPC consultants

Small business owners or startups that need a flexible and cost-effective solution might find PPC consultants a viable option. While they might not have the resources of larger agencies, their agility and lower overhead make them an attractive choice if you need focused, hands-on PPC management without a long-term commitment.

Their flexible engagement models mean you can often negotiate terms that suit your budget and scale of operations.

📙 Read: Hire a PPC Expert to Manage Paid Marketing in 2025

4. Platform-specific experts

Sometimes, you need a specialist who knows the ins and outs of a particular advertising platform if your business relies heavily on lead generation or sales.

Platform-specific experts, such as those specializing in Google Ads, Facebook Ads, or LinkedIn Ads, can provide deep, technical expertise tailored to the unique features and algorithmic nuances of one platform.

They’re often more knowledgeable on the latest updates and best practices to help you get the most out of your advertising spend on that particular platform.

5. Industry-specific PPC managers

If you’re in e-commerce, SaaS, or healthcare, you understand that each industry comes with its own unique challenges and regulatory requirements. Industry-specific PPC managers bring tailored strategies and insights honed by experience within your sector.

Their specialized knowledge comes in handy when navigating competitive keywords, compliance issues, and industry-specific audience behavior, to ensure that your campaigns perform well and align closely with industry standards and customer expectations. 

10 critical questions to ask before outsourcing PPC

Before committing to an outsourced PPC partner, there are questions you need to ask to help you gauge whether the agency’s expertise, approach, and structure align with your business needs and goals.

Here are 10 questions to ask:

1. Do you have experience in my industry?

A PPC agency or expert with relevant industry experience understands your target market’s unique challenges, customer behaviors, and dynamics. 

This enables them to craft strategies that resonate with your target audience and anticipate industry-specific trends, ensuring that your campaigns are both innovative and effective.

💡Pro tip: Look for case studies or client examples that demonstrate success in your specific field.

2. How do you measure success?

First, determine which KPIs the agency prioritizes. Whether it’s click-through rates, conversion rates, or cost-per-acquisition, you want to ensure their metrics align with your business goals.

Then, ask how they set benchmarks and what tools they use to track progress. Their approach should include both short-term performance and long-term growth metrics.

3. What reporting frequency and transparency can I expect?

Inquire about the cadence and details of performance reports. A reliable partner provides regular updates—whether weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly—that include clear insights into budget allocation, campaign performance, and optimization efforts.

Transparency in reporting builds trust, allowing you to see exactly where your investment is going and understand the rationale behind strategic adjustments.

4. What’s your approach to campaign strategy vs. tactical execution?

Ask how they balance long-term strategic planning with day-to-day campaign management. A solid partner will start with a comprehensive strategic blueprint that outlines your goals, target audience, and key messaging, and then back that up with tactical expertise that adapts to real-time market fluctuations.

Understanding this balance helps ensure that your campaigns aren’t just reactive but are built on a foundation that drives sustained growth.

5. What certificates do your PPC managers have?

Verify if their team holds industry-recognized certificates such as Google Ads Apps Certification, Meta Blueprint Certifications, or LinkedIn Ad Certifications. These credentials are a strong indicator of expertise and commitment to staying current with platform updates and best practices. 

They build credibility and assure you that the expert or agency is capable of using the latest features and tools for your campaigns.

6. How do you handle changes in PPC algorithms?

Platforms like Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn regularly update their algorithms, which can significantly impact campaign performance. Ask how the agency stays ahead of these changes and adapts strategies accordingly.

This ensures that your ads remain competitive, even when the digital landscape shifts.

7. What’s included in your services?

Clarify the scope of services covered by their fees. Does the fee include everything from initial strategy development, account management, and creative production, to reporting? Understanding what’s included prevents any surprise costs later and helps you compare partners, so you know exactly what your investment is buying.

8. What contract terms and exit clauses do you offer?

Examine the contractual details carefully. Ask about the length of the contract, cancellation policies, and any other penalties for early termination. Flexible contract terms and clearly defined exit clauses give you the freedom to reassess the partnership if it isn’t delivering the expected results.

A good agency will offer terms that reflect confidence in their performance and a willingness to align with your business needs over the long term.

9. How do you approach A/B testing?

A/B testing is crucial for refining ad creatives, landing pages, and overall campaign performance. Inquire about their testing methodology—how they design tests, measure results, and implement findings. A robust A/B testing process demonstrates their commitment to continuous improvement and data-driven decision-making.

10. How do you ensure ROI improvements over time?

Ask for concrete examples or case studies where their strategies led to measurable ROI improvements. Look for details on how they optimize campaigns, manage budgets, and adapt to performance trends. 

Their ongoing optimization processes should include regular reviews, data analysis, and iterative refinements designed to boost returns steadily.

Red Flags to Watch For When Evaluating PPC Management Services

Red Flags to Watch For When Evaluating PPC Management Services

Before signing on with a PPC agency or expert, look out for these red flags to avoid future headaches:

1. Unrealistic guarantees: “We guarantee #1 rankings overnight.”

Promises that sound too good to be true often are. Be wary of agencies that guarantee immediate top rankings or sky-high ROI with little explanation of how they’ll achieve these outcomes.

PPC is inherently competitive and involves many variables. No one can promise overnight success without cutting corners or engaging in risky tactics that could backfire in the long run.

2. Lack of transparency: Won’t share previous case studies or reporting methods

If a PPC agency or expert hesitates to share real case studies or detailed reporting methodologies, it could be a sign that they’re hiding underwhelming results or using opaque practices. You need clear, accessible insights into how your campaigns are managed, so any reluctance in this area should raise concerns.

3. Poor communication: Show response times during the sales process

Effective communication is the backbone of a productive relationship. If you experience delays or vague responses during the initial sales conversations, imagine what might happen once the campaign is running.

Poor communication can lead to misaligned expectations, delayed optimizations, and overall frustration when you need timely updates or strategic adjustments.

4. Restrictive contracts: Long-term commitments with no performance-based opt-outs

Contracts that lock you into long-term commitments without performance-based opt-out clauses can leave you stuck with a service that isn’t meeting your needs. Always look for agreements that allow for regular performance reviews and the option to adjust or exit if results consistently fall short of expectations.

5. Outdated PPC marketing strategies: Not adapting to Google’s latest automation features

As digital advertising platforms are continually evolving, so should your campaign strategies. An agency that refuses to incorporate new features, like Google’s advanced automation tools, may struggle to deliver competitive results.

You should ensure that your partner is committed to staying current with industry trends and continuously refining their approach to maximize your ad performance.

How to Prepare Your Business for a Smooth Transition

For a smooth transition to outsourcing PPC management, here are the essential information you need to define clear metrics, set communication expectations, and establish a realistic onboarding timeline:

1. Gather key documents.

Before the handoff, compile all relevant historical data of your campaigns. This includes reports, conversion data, and any insights into your competitors’ strategies. 

Such documentation not only provides your new partner with a baseline understanding of what’s worked (and what hasn’t) but also speeds up the process of tailoring strategies that can capitalize on your brand’s unique opportunities.

2. Define success metrics.

Clear goals make for a successful transition. Establish the KPIs and metrics that matter most to your business, such as ROAS, CPA, and CTR. These metrics will serve as benchmarks to measure ongoing campaign performance and ensure that your internal team and PPC partner are aligned in pursuing the same outcomes.

3. Set up communication expectations.

Define how often you expect updates and the preferred channels, whether that’s regular check-ins, detailed email reports, or real-time messaging via Slack. Setting these expectations from the start helps avoid misunderstanding and ensures you remain informed and engaged as strategies evolve.

4. Timeline for onboarding and performance improvements

You should plan a clear, phased timeline for the transitions. Here’s an example:

  • Week 1-2. Focus on strategy, research, and initial optimizations. During this phase, your new PPC partner will review your documentation, understand your market, and develop a customized strategy that addresses your immediate priorities.
  • Months 1-2. The focus shifts to scaling campaigns and making refinements. With a solid foundation in place, your partner will expand successful strategies, optimize ad spend, and fine-tune campaigns to enhance performance for measurable results.

Case Studies: Brands We’ve Helped Hire PPC Experts 

Apparel Magic

ApparelMagic, the leading software suite for fashion powerhouses, had an impressive product and client roster but struggled with a fragmented B2B marketing strategy. Nicoll Leighton, the Operations & Strategy Manager, recognized that siloed efforts in SEO, content creation, and paid advertising were holding the brand back from capturing more market share.

With their previous marketer leaving, Nicoll saw an opportunity to reimagine their marketing approach and needed an expert growth leader who could integrate multiple channels into a cohesive strategy. So, Nicoll reached out to us. 

We soon paired Nicoll with Katya, a marketer with over 10 years of B2B SaaS marketing experience. After auditing the brand, Katya went to work developing a comprehensive strategy to improve brand excitement through revitalized industry events, partner dinners, collaborative initiatives, and a refreshed brand identity.

"We are consistently seeing an increase in leads year-over-year of up to 53%,” said Nicoll. “The website traffic from organic and referral sources has also been up. As a result, we’ve experienced more deals closed since we started working with Katya.”

Read: ApparelMagic's Marketing Transformation with MarketerHire Expert Talent

Stuart & Lau

Stuart & Lau was founded by Matthew Stuart and Jimmy Lau to fill a gap in the market for lightweight, weatherproof briefcases and bags that combined timeless design with innovative, performance-driven materials. 

Initially, the company partnered with a New York-based full-service marketing agency to boost its presence on Facebook and Instagram. However, the agency's reliance on outdated "best practices" led to diminishing growth and a stagnating return on ad spend. 

Frustrated with rigid strategies that no longer resonated with shifting algorithms and evolving consumer behavior, Matthew and his team knew they needed a more agile, channel-specific approach. So, Matthew ended the traditional agency contract and joined forces with MarketerHire. 

By hiring remote marketing experts on retainer, the brand was able to manage its email marketing and paid advertising on Facebook, Instagram, and Google more effectively. This switch not only streamlined their marketing efforts and increased monthly revenue but also doubled their return on ad spend, all for less than the cost of a full-time hire.

"MarketerHire pairs you with a specialist specifically suited to your needs,” Matthew says. “Our freelancers have come in quickly and hit the ground running, with minimal learning curve."

Read: How Stuart & Lau Built an Exceptional Remote Marketing Team with MarketerHire

Jadu 

Jadu’s augmented reality app transforms your phone into a portal for holograms of entertainers, like Lil Nas X sporting vivid red angel (or devil) wings. When COO Jake Sally joined, he needed to understand user behavior and identify pain points in the app by setting up a marketing data studio—a turnkey project that required a senior-level expert.

Needing a part-time hire immediately, Sally turned to MarketerHire, albeit with some skepticism. He was quickly impressed when we introduced him to Declan, a growth marketer experienced with mobile products. Declan built the required dashboard in under six weeks, enabling Jadu to run its first paid TikTok campaign and gather lower-funnel metrics on actual app usage.

The TikTok campaign exceeded expectations with a click-through rate twice to three times the typical rate, validating Declan’s work. Despite the project ending and Declan moving on, Sally highly recommends MarketerHire, calling it “one of the best services I’ve ever worked with.”

Read: Jadu Needed to Track Behavioral Data in Its App. Enter a MarketerHire Expert.

Maintaining Control While Outsourcing PPC Marketing: Best Practices

Even when you outsource PPC advertising, you don’t have to let go of control entirely. By following these best practices, you can maintain oversight and harness your PPC partner’s expertise while maintaining brand consistency.

1. Establish a collaborative partnership.

Rather than a one-sided delegation, build a partnership where both your team and the agency contribute insights and expertise. Stay involved in strategic discussions and encourage an open dialogue about campaigns.

This way, you can ensure that the agency’s tactics are in sync with your brand’s vision while also tapping into their specialized skill set to drive innovation and performance. 

2. Set regular review meetings.

Schedule monthly or quarterly performance deep dives to review key metrics, discuss optimization opportunities, and realign on goals. These meetings serve as a forum for both teams to evaluate what’s working, address any challenges, and plan for future improvement. 

Consistent reviews also help maintain transparency and ensure that both parties are equally invested in the campaign’s success.

3. Approval workflows for ads and budget adjustments.

Establish clear approval processes for new ad creatives, budget shifts, or strategic changes. Outline a detailed workflow that includes review stages and necessary sign-offs. 

This approach maintains your brand standards and reduces the risk of misaligned messaging.

4. Balance agency expertise with internal knowledge

Your internal team possesses valuable insights about your customers, brand history, and market dynamics that the agency might not fully capture. Balance the specialized expertise of your PPC partner with this in-house knowledge.

Encourage regular knowledge-sharing sessions where your team provides contextual insights while the agency offers data-driven recommendations. This ensures that every campaign uses the best of both teams, increasing overall performance and ROI.

Outsource PPC through MarketerHire

PPC advertising can be complex, expensive, and incredibly time-consuming, but outsourcing your PPC marketing doesn’t mean you lose control. When you partner with the right agency or freelancer, you not only improve your results but also have time to focus on core business initiatives.

Outsourcing your PPC advertising efforts through MarketerHire means working with pre-vetted experts who are ready to reduce wasted ad spend and improve your return on ad spend (ROAS) with data-driven strategies.

These proven professionals streamline your campaigns while preserving your brand’s voice and strategic direction. They do the heavy lifting, which allows you to reclaim internal resources for bigger growth initiatives and strategic projects that drive your business forward.

If you’re ready to scale your PPC campaigns without the stress of managing every detail yourself, let MarketerHire match you with a proven PPC specialist today.

Althea StormAlthea Storm
Althea Storm is a freelance Content Marketer who has written 300+ expert-backed and data-driven articles, eBooks, and guides for top software companies like HubSpot, Thinkific, Wiza, and Zapier. When Althea’s not producing top-notch content, you’ll find her deeply engrossed in a novel or painting.
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Running PPC campaigns in-house can feel haphazard, if not managed properly. Costs creep up, algorithms shift, new features roll out (and sometimes roll back), and before you know it, you’re spending more time troubleshooting ad performance than actually growing your business.

Managing PPC properly takes a mix of deep platform expertise, constant optimization, and more hours than most teams have to spare. And if you’re stretching resources too thin, you’re not just burning ad spend but also leaving serious revenue on the table.

That’s where outsourcing PPC comes in.

When done right, a PPC management service doesn’t just “run your ads”—they become an extension of your team, bringing data-backed strategies, ad creatives that convert, and real-time optimizations that keep your ROI on track.

In this guide, I’ll cover:

  • How to know when it’s time to outsource PPC; 
  • How to choose the right PPC partnerx; and 
  • How to get the most out of your partnership.


Let’s dive in.

When to outsource PPC

You don’t always have to handle pay-per-click (PPC) campaigns in-house, especially if your team gets stretched too thin. Sometimes, shifting this responsibility to external experts, like PPC specialists or PPC agencies, is the best step to take. 

Here are some scenarios in which outsourcing PPC campaigns is the smart move:

1. Declining performance

At MarketerHire, we helped a brand that offers premium protein powders and motorcycle/custom car giveaways hire a PPC expert. 

At the time, the two brothers who owned the brand paid $10,000 in agency fees and spent a staggering $500 every day on ads. Yet, their efforts only yielded a disappointing $5,000 in revenue.

This scenario perfectly illustrates declining performance. If you’re increasing your ad spend, but you're not seeing a corresponding improvement in key metrics like click-through rates, conversion rates, or overall ROI, there’s a problem. This indicates that your current PPC strategy might be misaligned or inefficient, leading to wasted budget and lost opportunities.

Instead of continuing down this costly path, outsourcing your PPC campaigns lets you hire external experts who analyze data, identify inefficiencies, and implement fresh strategies that turn performance around.

These two brothers did exactly that. They reached out to us, and we paired them with Bobby, a paid social marketing expert. 

Bobby analyzed their situation, identified the inefficiencies in their approach, and mapped out a tailored PPC strategy, which started yielding great results almost immediately.

2. In-house limitations

If your team is juggling multiple PPC marketing channels and struggling to give PPC the attention it needs, it’s time to consider an expert. Outsourcing frees your team from being spread too thin, allowing them to focus on what they do best while experts handle the nuances of PPC campaigns. 

This division of labor ensures that every facet of your digital marketing efforts gets the dedicated focus it deserves.

3. Difficulty keeping up with PPC changes

Platforms like Google, Meta, and LinkedIn Ads evolve constantly, introducing new features and updates at a fast pace. Staying on top of these changes can be overwhelming, especially when you’re caught up in the day-to-day activities of running a business.

A dedicated PPC partner stays ahead of the curve, ensuring your campaigns adapt quickly and efficiently to every update.

4. Wasted spending

A leading global clothing brand was spending $1 million a month on platforms like TikTok, Meta, Rauten, YouTube, and programmatic display—but something was missing: clear strategic leadership. Without a dedicated strategist, inefficiencies went unchecked, and despite the hefty budget, the ad performance began to slip. 

The issue wasn’t overspending; it was the lack of a cohesive strategy to guide how and where that money was deployed.

If your PPC campaigns aren’t converting as expected, the problem might not lie in your budget but in your approach. Outsourcing your PPC ads to PPC experts can optimize spend, cut out inefficiencies, and reallocate funds to channels that deliver the best returns.

Realizing their escalating wasted spend, the brand turned to MarketerHire and was connected with David, a paid social media expert. With a proven track record of managing large budgets and boosting return on ad spend (ROAS) from 4X to 7X, David helped the brand refine its strategy, minimize waste, and maximize the return on its advertising investment.

Read: How to Hire a Paid Social Marketer: A Practical Guide to Building High-Performing Ad Campaigns

5. Scaling challenges

As your PPC campaigns grow, managing the increasing complexity becomes a challenge. Scaling PPC advertising efforts requires more sophisticated strategies and PPC tools that your in-house team may not have at their disposal. 

A PPC expert or agency can handle growth and adapt your campaigns to maintain efficiency while exploring new opportunities for expansion.

6. Opportunity cost analysis

Every minute your team spends on managing PPC campaigns is time not spent on other high-impact marketing activities. Outsourcing your PPC ads allows you to reallocate valuable internal resources to strategic initiatives that drive growth. 

By handing off PPC to a trusted expert, you ensure that your team can focus on what truly matters—creativity, customer engagement, and other core areas that fuel business success.

📙 Read: 35 Best PPC Tools to Manage Ad Campaigns in 2025 – Explore top tools to streamline and enhance your PPC strategy.

Case studies: How MarketerHire Has Helped Brands Find PPC Experts

How MarketerHire Has Helped Brands Find PPC Experts

Here are some other instances in which MarketerHire has helped brands find and hire PPC experts: 

A subscription app

A fast-growing subscription app was spending $350K a month on ads across major platforms, paying an agency a standard 15% media-buying fee that sometimes cost them $80K in management alone. 

A deep dive into their detailed reports revealed that the agency was charging roughly $3,000 per hour for just six hours of work each week. With their contract expiring right before peak season in January, the company faced a stark choice: continue burning money or regain control. 

They decided to ditch the bloated agency model and reached out to MarketerHire. Before long, we matched them with Chris, an elite marketer with a proven track record of scaling high-budget campaigns for Fortune 100 companies and top mobile gaming firms. 

After one scoping call, Chris joined the team, eliminating unexplained fees and inefficiencies while ensuring every dollar was well spent.

Quartix UK

With conversion rates dipping and rising ad costs, Sofie knew that hiring the wrong specialist could derail progress for Quartix’s lean, six-person marketing team managing localized campaigns across six countries. 

After past freelancers proved unreliable, Sofie turned to us. Through our custom matching process, we connected her with José, a pre-vetted PPC specialist. Fifteen minutes into the scoping call, Sofie felt confident—"I think he’s the one"—and hired him. 

José immediately started shifting the focus from vanity metrics to revenue by integrating offline conversion tracking, cutting wasted spend on low-value leads, and prioritizing sales-qualified leads to improve ROAS. 

📙 Read: Hiring a PPC Expert? Look for These 13 Skills – Learn the key skills to consider when hiring a PPC professional.

The Real Costs of DIY PPC vs. Outsourcing PPC

Switching from DIY PPC to outsourcing PPC isn’t just about shifting responsibilities—it’s also about rethinking your budget and maximizing every dollar you spend on your campaigns. 

Let’s break this down:

1. The hidden costs of in-house PPC

Running PPC campaigns internally goes far beyond simply launching ads. Training your team takes time and money, and investing in the right tools to analyze and optimize campaigns can add up quickly.

Then there’s the risk of wasted ad spend when strategies miss the mark, not to mention the significant time investment required to stay on top of the platform updates and campaign tweaks. 

These hidden costs often stack up, impacting your campaigns more than you might expect.

2. Common pricing models for outsourced PPC

Outsourcing PPC pricing isn’t a one-size-fits-all scenario—it varies based on your business size, goals, and growth stage. Understanding the differences between these pricing models can help you choose an arrangement that aligns with your strategic needs and budget expectations.

  • Percentage of ad spend

Some PPC experts and agencies operate on a model where they charge a percentage of your total ad spend. For example, if you’re investing $100,000 in PPC campaigns and the fee is set at 10%, you’d pay $10,000. 

This model ties your PPC partner’s incentives to your spending and performance, as they only earn more when your campaigns are actively running. 

This model is especially beneficial if your campaigns are well-optimized, ensuring that every additional dollar spent translates into measurable gains. 

However, it may encourage PPC agencies/experts to increase your spend, so you’ll need to monitor overall efficiency and ensure that increased spending leads to proportionate improvements in ROI.

  • Flat monthly fee

Some PPC specialists and agencies prefer a flat monthly fee, which offers a predictable budgeting framework. With this model, you pay a set amount each month regardless of fluctuations in your ad spend. 

This is ideal if you’re a small to mid-sized business (SMB) that values cost predictability and a consistent level of service. A flat fee arrangement often covers a defined scope of work, including strategy development, daily management, and reporting. 

While this approach simplifies budgeting, you also need to make sure the service level provided justifies the fixed cost, especially if your campaigns scale up over time.

  • Performance-based fee

For high-growth businesses, a performance-based fee model might be the ideal choice. 

In this setup, the expert/agency’s fee is directly linked to measurable outcomes, such as improved conversion rates, lower cost-per-acquisition (CPA), or increased ROAS. Often, there’s a base fee with additional bonuses tied to achieving specific targets. 

This model aligns the partner’s interests with your business goals, as they only benefit when your campaigns deliver tangible results. It’s a compelling option if you want to ensure every dollar spent is driving clear, performance-based value, though it may come with higher variable costs if performance surges.

3. Industry-specific cost considerations

Not all industries are created equal when it comes to PPC marketing. Sectors like legal, finance, and e-commerce typically face higher cost-per-click rates and may also encounter steeper management fees.

If you’re in this field, it means that you need to weigh the benefits of outsourcing PPC marketing even more carefully, as extensive knowledge of PPC advertising can help you navigate the competitive market and drive profitable results. 

📙 Read: Hire a PPC Expert to Manage Paid Marketing in 2025 – Find out how to hire the right expert to manage your paid campaigns effectively.

ROI comparison showing cost savings and improved performance from outsourcing PPC

Businesses that make the switch to outsource PPC management generally experience a drop in wasted ad spend and a noticeable boost in conversion rates. Here’s a table comparing a DIY PPC approach to outsourcing PPC (and the impact on ROI):

Company Size DIY PPC Approach Outsourcing PPC Impact on ROI
Small business (1-10 employees) For a small team, establishing an in-house PPC function usually involves recruiting a junior/entry-level specialist, which can cost between $41,000 and $46,000 annually. This won’t cover extra training and essential tools, so you may want to go for a mid-level expert instead. Hiring a freelance PPC professional typically costs between $500 and $6,000 per month, and they offer flexible, expert support without the burden of full-time overhead. Hiring a freelancer gives you immediate access to specialized skills and agile campaign management, which translates into rapid performance gains and an optimized advertising budget.
Mid-market (1-200 employees) Building an internal PPC team in a mid-market company may involve assembling 2-3 PPC specialists. The average salary of a mid-level PPC expert is $50,000 - $88,000. So, hiring 2-3 may cost between $100,000 and $250,000. If your campaigns scale quickly, they may struggle to keep up with growing demands. Engaging a PPC agency generally costs between $2,000 and $12,000 per month. This agency will typically deliver scalable PPC strategies and advanced analytics to refine campaign performance continuously. Mid-level companies benefit from outsourcing PPC to PPC agencies because it gives them access to a team that specializes in paid ads. It also frees up the internal team to focus on tasks that move the needle toward business growth.
Enterprise (200+ employees) Large organizations may invest up to $1 million (or more) annually in a comprehensive in-house PPC operation. However, managing complex, high-volume PPC campaigns without external help can introduce operational challenges. Partnering with fractional PPC experts or PPC agencies will cost between $20,000 and $60,000 per month, depending on the scale of operations. However, the PPC partner will offer integrated consultancy and expert management suitable for multifaceted campaigns. Outsourcing PPC to an external partner fills in any skill gaps and streamlines operations. This results in incremental gains through data-driven insights and ensures that every advertising dollar contributes to sustained improvements in ROI.


Read:
How to Structure and Manage a Paid Social Media Team

What services should a PPC Management agency provide?

When evaluating a PPC management agency, you should know what digital marketing services they offer. Here are some common services you should look out for: 

1. Campaign strategy and planning

A solid campaign strategy forms the foundation of any successful PPC. 

A skilled agency starts by understanding your unique business goals, target audience, and market dynamics. Then, they craft a bespoke strategy that defines your key performance indicators (KPIs) and outlines a clear roadmap for targeting and bidding. 

This ensures that every campaign is aligned with your brand’s objectives, setting the stage for success right from the start.

2. Account structure and optimization

A PPC agency meticulously sets your campaigns into logical, segmented ad groups based on themes, products, or customer demographics. This structure simplifies management and improves tracking capabilities, which makes iit easier to pinpoint which segments are performing well and which need adjustments.

Continuously optimizing this structure, through refining keywords, ad placements, and budget allocations, ensures that your campaigns remain agile and responsive to market changes.

3. Ad copywriting & testing

A professional PPC agency excels at creating compelling ad copy that speaks directly to your target audience. They understand that every word matters and often invest in A/B testing different versions of headlines, body text, and calls-to-action.

By comparing how variations perform in real-time, they can then fine-tune your ad messaging to drive higher click-through rates and better overall engagement, boosting conversion rates.

4. Bid management and budget allocation

Maximizing your ROAS is about precision in bid management and smart budgeting. A PPC agency uses advanced data analytics and automation tools to set competitive bids for high-value keywords, so you can capture the most profitable opportunities.

They continuously monitor market trends and adjust bids in real-time, so your budget is always allocated where it can deliver the highest impact. This prevents overspending and guarantees that your investment drives the best possible result.

5. Landing page and conversion rate optimization

Driving traffic to your website is just the beginning—the real challenge lies in converting those visitors into customers. PPC agencies work hand in hand with web designers and developers to create landing pages that are not only visually appealing but also optimized for conversions.

They test various elements such as form placements and images to determine the best configuration for converting ad clicks into tangible leads or sales. This approach ensures that the entire customer journey is optimized from the moment an ad is clicked to the final conversion.

6. Transparent reporting and analytics

A reputable PPC agency is transparent and provides clarity and detailed, easy-to-understand reports that break down all key metrics—from impressions and click-through rates to conversions to cost-per-acquisition. They offer insights into what’s working and where there’s room for improvement, allowing you to make data-driven decisions. 

With regular performance at your fingertips, you can confidently adjust your strategy to maximize ongoing results.

📙 Read: How to Structure a High-Performing Paid Search Marketing Team – Discover the ideal team structure for optimizing your paid search efforts.

Types of PPC management services: finding your perfect match

To find the right PPC agency/expert, you’ll need to explore a range of options that cater to your business size, budget, and needs.

Here are different PPC management services that might be the ideal match for your business:

1. Full-service digital marketing agencies

Full-service digital agencies are the best if you need a broader digital marketing strategy that includes SEO services, social media, content marketing, and more under one roof. These agencies' approach ensures that your PPC efforts are aligned with your overall marketing goals and brand messaging across cross-channels for maximum impact.

2. PPC specialists and boutique agencies

If you want dedicated PPC expertise without the overhead of a large agency, PPC specialists and boutique agencies offer a focused solution.

These partners focus solely on pay-per-click advertising, giving them a deep understanding of the nuances and constant changes in PPC marketing platforms. They develop high-performing ad campaigns, test innovative strategies, and adapt quickly to shifts in market trends. 

3. Freelance PPC consultants

Small business owners or startups that need a flexible and cost-effective solution might find PPC consultants a viable option. While they might not have the resources of larger agencies, their agility and lower overhead make them an attractive choice if you need focused, hands-on PPC management without a long-term commitment.

Their flexible engagement models mean you can often negotiate terms that suit your budget and scale of operations.

📙 Read: Hire a PPC Expert to Manage Paid Marketing in 2025

4. Platform-specific experts

Sometimes, you need a specialist who knows the ins and outs of a particular advertising platform if your business relies heavily on lead generation or sales.

Platform-specific experts, such as those specializing in Google Ads, Facebook Ads, or LinkedIn Ads, can provide deep, technical expertise tailored to the unique features and algorithmic nuances of one platform.

They’re often more knowledgeable on the latest updates and best practices to help you get the most out of your advertising spend on that particular platform.

5. Industry-specific PPC managers

If you’re in e-commerce, SaaS, or healthcare, you understand that each industry comes with its own unique challenges and regulatory requirements. Industry-specific PPC managers bring tailored strategies and insights honed by experience within your sector.

Their specialized knowledge comes in handy when navigating competitive keywords, compliance issues, and industry-specific audience behavior, to ensure that your campaigns perform well and align closely with industry standards and customer expectations. 

10 critical questions to ask before outsourcing PPC

Before committing to an outsourced PPC partner, there are questions you need to ask to help you gauge whether the agency’s expertise, approach, and structure align with your business needs and goals.

Here are 10 questions to ask:

1. Do you have experience in my industry?

A PPC agency or expert with relevant industry experience understands your target market’s unique challenges, customer behaviors, and dynamics. 

This enables them to craft strategies that resonate with your target audience and anticipate industry-specific trends, ensuring that your campaigns are both innovative and effective.

💡Pro tip: Look for case studies or client examples that demonstrate success in your specific field.

2. How do you measure success?

First, determine which KPIs the agency prioritizes. Whether it’s click-through rates, conversion rates, or cost-per-acquisition, you want to ensure their metrics align with your business goals.

Then, ask how they set benchmarks and what tools they use to track progress. Their approach should include both short-term performance and long-term growth metrics.

3. What reporting frequency and transparency can I expect?

Inquire about the cadence and details of performance reports. A reliable partner provides regular updates—whether weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly—that include clear insights into budget allocation, campaign performance, and optimization efforts.

Transparency in reporting builds trust, allowing you to see exactly where your investment is going and understand the rationale behind strategic adjustments.

4. What’s your approach to campaign strategy vs. tactical execution?

Ask how they balance long-term strategic planning with day-to-day campaign management. A solid partner will start with a comprehensive strategic blueprint that outlines your goals, target audience, and key messaging, and then back that up with tactical expertise that adapts to real-time market fluctuations.

Understanding this balance helps ensure that your campaigns aren’t just reactive but are built on a foundation that drives sustained growth.

5. What certificates do your PPC managers have?

Verify if their team holds industry-recognized certificates such as Google Ads Apps Certification, Meta Blueprint Certifications, or LinkedIn Ad Certifications. These credentials are a strong indicator of expertise and commitment to staying current with platform updates and best practices. 

They build credibility and assure you that the expert or agency is capable of using the latest features and tools for your campaigns.

6. How do you handle changes in PPC algorithms?

Platforms like Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn regularly update their algorithms, which can significantly impact campaign performance. Ask how the agency stays ahead of these changes and adapts strategies accordingly.

This ensures that your ads remain competitive, even when the digital landscape shifts.

7. What’s included in your services?

Clarify the scope of services covered by their fees. Does the fee include everything from initial strategy development, account management, and creative production, to reporting? Understanding what’s included prevents any surprise costs later and helps you compare partners, so you know exactly what your investment is buying.

8. What contract terms and exit clauses do you offer?

Examine the contractual details carefully. Ask about the length of the contract, cancellation policies, and any other penalties for early termination. Flexible contract terms and clearly defined exit clauses give you the freedom to reassess the partnership if it isn’t delivering the expected results.

A good agency will offer terms that reflect confidence in their performance and a willingness to align with your business needs over the long term.

9. How do you approach A/B testing?

A/B testing is crucial for refining ad creatives, landing pages, and overall campaign performance. Inquire about their testing methodology—how they design tests, measure results, and implement findings. A robust A/B testing process demonstrates their commitment to continuous improvement and data-driven decision-making.

10. How do you ensure ROI improvements over time?

Ask for concrete examples or case studies where their strategies led to measurable ROI improvements. Look for details on how they optimize campaigns, manage budgets, and adapt to performance trends. 

Their ongoing optimization processes should include regular reviews, data analysis, and iterative refinements designed to boost returns steadily.

Red Flags to Watch For When Evaluating PPC Management Services

Red Flags to Watch For When Evaluating PPC Management Services

Before signing on with a PPC agency or expert, look out for these red flags to avoid future headaches:

1. Unrealistic guarantees: “We guarantee #1 rankings overnight.”

Promises that sound too good to be true often are. Be wary of agencies that guarantee immediate top rankings or sky-high ROI with little explanation of how they’ll achieve these outcomes.

PPC is inherently competitive and involves many variables. No one can promise overnight success without cutting corners or engaging in risky tactics that could backfire in the long run.

2. Lack of transparency: Won’t share previous case studies or reporting methods

If a PPC agency or expert hesitates to share real case studies or detailed reporting methodologies, it could be a sign that they’re hiding underwhelming results or using opaque practices. You need clear, accessible insights into how your campaigns are managed, so any reluctance in this area should raise concerns.

3. Poor communication: Show response times during the sales process

Effective communication is the backbone of a productive relationship. If you experience delays or vague responses during the initial sales conversations, imagine what might happen once the campaign is running.

Poor communication can lead to misaligned expectations, delayed optimizations, and overall frustration when you need timely updates or strategic adjustments.

4. Restrictive contracts: Long-term commitments with no performance-based opt-outs

Contracts that lock you into long-term commitments without performance-based opt-out clauses can leave you stuck with a service that isn’t meeting your needs. Always look for agreements that allow for regular performance reviews and the option to adjust or exit if results consistently fall short of expectations.

5. Outdated PPC marketing strategies: Not adapting to Google’s latest automation features

As digital advertising platforms are continually evolving, so should your campaign strategies. An agency that refuses to incorporate new features, like Google’s advanced automation tools, may struggle to deliver competitive results.

You should ensure that your partner is committed to staying current with industry trends and continuously refining their approach to maximize your ad performance.

How to Prepare Your Business for a Smooth Transition

For a smooth transition to outsourcing PPC management, here are the essential information you need to define clear metrics, set communication expectations, and establish a realistic onboarding timeline:

1. Gather key documents.

Before the handoff, compile all relevant historical data of your campaigns. This includes reports, conversion data, and any insights into your competitors’ strategies. 

Such documentation not only provides your new partner with a baseline understanding of what’s worked (and what hasn’t) but also speeds up the process of tailoring strategies that can capitalize on your brand’s unique opportunities.

2. Define success metrics.

Clear goals make for a successful transition. Establish the KPIs and metrics that matter most to your business, such as ROAS, CPA, and CTR. These metrics will serve as benchmarks to measure ongoing campaign performance and ensure that your internal team and PPC partner are aligned in pursuing the same outcomes.

3. Set up communication expectations.

Define how often you expect updates and the preferred channels, whether that’s regular check-ins, detailed email reports, or real-time messaging via Slack. Setting these expectations from the start helps avoid misunderstanding and ensures you remain informed and engaged as strategies evolve.

4. Timeline for onboarding and performance improvements

You should plan a clear, phased timeline for the transitions. Here’s an example:

  • Week 1-2. Focus on strategy, research, and initial optimizations. During this phase, your new PPC partner will review your documentation, understand your market, and develop a customized strategy that addresses your immediate priorities.
  • Months 1-2. The focus shifts to scaling campaigns and making refinements. With a solid foundation in place, your partner will expand successful strategies, optimize ad spend, and fine-tune campaigns to enhance performance for measurable results.

Case Studies: Brands We’ve Helped Hire PPC Experts 

Apparel Magic

ApparelMagic, the leading software suite for fashion powerhouses, had an impressive product and client roster but struggled with a fragmented B2B marketing strategy. Nicoll Leighton, the Operations & Strategy Manager, recognized that siloed efforts in SEO, content creation, and paid advertising were holding the brand back from capturing more market share.

With their previous marketer leaving, Nicoll saw an opportunity to reimagine their marketing approach and needed an expert growth leader who could integrate multiple channels into a cohesive strategy. So, Nicoll reached out to us. 

We soon paired Nicoll with Katya, a marketer with over 10 years of B2B SaaS marketing experience. After auditing the brand, Katya went to work developing a comprehensive strategy to improve brand excitement through revitalized industry events, partner dinners, collaborative initiatives, and a refreshed brand identity.

"We are consistently seeing an increase in leads year-over-year of up to 53%,” said Nicoll. “The website traffic from organic and referral sources has also been up. As a result, we’ve experienced more deals closed since we started working with Katya.”

Read: ApparelMagic's Marketing Transformation with MarketerHire Expert Talent

Stuart & Lau

Stuart & Lau was founded by Matthew Stuart and Jimmy Lau to fill a gap in the market for lightweight, weatherproof briefcases and bags that combined timeless design with innovative, performance-driven materials. 

Initially, the company partnered with a New York-based full-service marketing agency to boost its presence on Facebook and Instagram. However, the agency's reliance on outdated "best practices" led to diminishing growth and a stagnating return on ad spend. 

Frustrated with rigid strategies that no longer resonated with shifting algorithms and evolving consumer behavior, Matthew and his team knew they needed a more agile, channel-specific approach. So, Matthew ended the traditional agency contract and joined forces with MarketerHire. 

By hiring remote marketing experts on retainer, the brand was able to manage its email marketing and paid advertising on Facebook, Instagram, and Google more effectively. This switch not only streamlined their marketing efforts and increased monthly revenue but also doubled their return on ad spend, all for less than the cost of a full-time hire.

"MarketerHire pairs you with a specialist specifically suited to your needs,” Matthew says. “Our freelancers have come in quickly and hit the ground running, with minimal learning curve."

Read: How Stuart & Lau Built an Exceptional Remote Marketing Team with MarketerHire

Jadu 

Jadu’s augmented reality app transforms your phone into a portal for holograms of entertainers, like Lil Nas X sporting vivid red angel (or devil) wings. When COO Jake Sally joined, he needed to understand user behavior and identify pain points in the app by setting up a marketing data studio—a turnkey project that required a senior-level expert.

Needing a part-time hire immediately, Sally turned to MarketerHire, albeit with some skepticism. He was quickly impressed when we introduced him to Declan, a growth marketer experienced with mobile products. Declan built the required dashboard in under six weeks, enabling Jadu to run its first paid TikTok campaign and gather lower-funnel metrics on actual app usage.

The TikTok campaign exceeded expectations with a click-through rate twice to three times the typical rate, validating Declan’s work. Despite the project ending and Declan moving on, Sally highly recommends MarketerHire, calling it “one of the best services I’ve ever worked with.”

Read: Jadu Needed to Track Behavioral Data in Its App. Enter a MarketerHire Expert.

Maintaining Control While Outsourcing PPC Marketing: Best Practices

Even when you outsource PPC advertising, you don’t have to let go of control entirely. By following these best practices, you can maintain oversight and harness your PPC partner’s expertise while maintaining brand consistency.

1. Establish a collaborative partnership.

Rather than a one-sided delegation, build a partnership where both your team and the agency contribute insights and expertise. Stay involved in strategic discussions and encourage an open dialogue about campaigns.

This way, you can ensure that the agency’s tactics are in sync with your brand’s vision while also tapping into their specialized skill set to drive innovation and performance. 

2. Set regular review meetings.

Schedule monthly or quarterly performance deep dives to review key metrics, discuss optimization opportunities, and realign on goals. These meetings serve as a forum for both teams to evaluate what’s working, address any challenges, and plan for future improvement. 

Consistent reviews also help maintain transparency and ensure that both parties are equally invested in the campaign’s success.

3. Approval workflows for ads and budget adjustments.

Establish clear approval processes for new ad creatives, budget shifts, or strategic changes. Outline a detailed workflow that includes review stages and necessary sign-offs. 

This approach maintains your brand standards and reduces the risk of misaligned messaging.

4. Balance agency expertise with internal knowledge

Your internal team possesses valuable insights about your customers, brand history, and market dynamics that the agency might not fully capture. Balance the specialized expertise of your PPC partner with this in-house knowledge.

Encourage regular knowledge-sharing sessions where your team provides contextual insights while the agency offers data-driven recommendations. This ensures that every campaign uses the best of both teams, increasing overall performance and ROI.

Outsource PPC through MarketerHire

PPC advertising can be complex, expensive, and incredibly time-consuming, but outsourcing your PPC marketing doesn’t mean you lose control. When you partner with the right agency or freelancer, you not only improve your results but also have time to focus on core business initiatives.

Outsourcing your PPC advertising efforts through MarketerHire means working with pre-vetted experts who are ready to reduce wasted ad spend and improve your return on ad spend (ROAS) with data-driven strategies.

These proven professionals streamline your campaigns while preserving your brand’s voice and strategic direction. They do the heavy lifting, which allows you to reclaim internal resources for bigger growth initiatives and strategic projects that drive your business forward.

If you’re ready to scale your PPC campaigns without the stress of managing every detail yourself, let MarketerHire match you with a proven PPC specialist today.

Althea Storm
about the author

Althea Storm is a freelance Content Marketer who has written 300+ expert-backed and data-driven articles, eBooks, and guides for top software companies like HubSpot, Thinkific, Wiza, and Zapier. When Althea’s not producing top-notch content, you’ll find her deeply engrossed in a novel or painting.

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