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Consultant vs. agency: what's the difference?

When to bring in a consultant

You’ve got someone running your Google Ads—maybe an in-house person, maybe a junior from an agency—but something feels off. You’re not confident in the strategy. Spending is rising but results aren’t. Or you’re new to ads and want expert guidance without committing to a full agency. That’s when a consultant makes sense.

What advisory actually means

Advisory isn’t hand-holding. It’s a senior consultant who knows what works, spots what doesn’t, and tells you the truth—even if the truth is “your ads are fine” or “you should pause this campaign.” You get strategy, recommendations, and access when you need it.

A typical advisory engagement

  1. Discovery callWe talk through your current setup, goals, budget, and pain points. No assumptions.
  2. Account auditI review your Google Ads account for structure, tracking, bid strategy, waste, and missed opportunities.
  3. Strategy sessionI present findings and recommendations. We agree on priorities and next steps.
  4. Implementation supportI’m available as you (or your team) implement changes. Fractional management available if needed.

Why experience matters

I’ve managed over £2M in ad spend across ecommerce and home services. That experience matters because Google Ads looks simple but isn’t. One wrong setting costs thousands. A consultant with real data knows what to look for and how to fix it. You’re not paying for someone to learn on your account.

Common reasons to hire a consultant in Bishop Auckland

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between consultant and full agency management?

Agency = done-for-you, you don’t touch it. Consultant = strategic oversight and support, you (or your team) implement. Consultancy is cheaper and gives you more control.

Can you help if I already have someone managing my ads?

Yes. I’ve worked with clients who had an agency or in-house person and wanted an external eye. I’ll audit the account and give honest feedback.

How does fractional management pricing work?

If you need ongoing hands-on work (not just strategy), we can agree on a monthly fee for a set number of hours—typically 10-20/month. Pricing starts from £300/month, quote on a call based on scope.

Do you work with businesses in Bishop Auckland and County Durham?

Yes, I’m UK-wide remote. Most of my consulting clients are in ecommerce and home services, many based around Bishop Auckland, Shildon, Willington, and the surrounding region.

Do you do one-off audits?

Yes, via the PPC Audits service. That’s a fixed-scope diagnostic (no ongoing commitment). This service is for ongoing advisory and strategy.

What if your recommendations conflict with what my current team is doing?

That’s the point. I give you honest feedback, even if it means disagreeing with your current setup. You decide what to do with it.

Need a second opinion?

Book a consultation. We'll talk through your account, strategy, and what's working (or not).

Call 07410 907 104 Book a consultation