FAQ
Questions?
We've got answers.
Everything you've wondered about working with Sproutbox, from pricing and timelines to who's actually on your account.
How much does it cost?
Our monthly services start around $2k/month and larger projects like branding and websites start around $10k. We'll give you a clear, honest scope after a 30-minute call.
How long until we see results?
Paid ads can drive traffic in days. SEO and brand strategy take longer to compound — typically 3–6 months to see meaningful momentum. We'll set honest expectations upfront, not inflated ones.
Who works on my account?
Senior people. Every account is led by an experienced expert, not handed off to a junior team after the pitch. You'll know your team by name and they'll always act in the best interest of your organization.
Do we need a long-term contract?
No. We offer month-to-month options because we'd rather earn your business every month than lock you into something that doesn't work. Most of our clients stay because they want to, not because they have to.
What industries do you work with?
We work with everyone from startups to fortune 500 companies - and everything in between. Our experience extends across industries including B2B, professional services, manufacturing, e-commerce, tech, and more. If you're serious about growth, we're serious about helping.
What does onboarding look like?
We'll dig into your brand, audience, and goals. Whether we're starting a month-to-month partnership or running a focused project, you'll have a clear roadmap within 30 days—and we'll be executing against it. No limbo. No waiting.
How is AI changing search?
Google's integrating AI answers directly into results, which means SEO strategy needs to adapt fast. We're already on it.
Does my website really matter in the modern world of marketing?
Absolutely. Social is borrowed real estate. Your website is your only true owned asset.
How long until SEO actually works?
3-6 months for meaningful results. It's slow, but the traffic that comes sticks around.
Do I really need professional photos for my business?
Yes. Amateur photos signal amateur business. Good photos build credibility and convert more customers.
What exactly is AI optimization?
It's optimizing your content for AI-generated answers in search. Google's AI summarizes results—we get you featured in them.
Is WordPress hosting really different from regular hosting?
Yes. WordPress needs specific configurations—we optimize for speed, security, and updates. Most generic hosts don't.
Should I be worried about AI stealing traffic?
Only if you're not optimizing for it. AI-generated results reward high-authority, specific content—which is what we build.
Should I be on every platform?
No. Focus on where your customers actually hang out. We figure out which 2-3 platforms are worth your energy.
What makes a website actually convert?
Fast loading, clear value proposition, easy navigation, and obvious next steps. Form over flash.
How much does a photoshoot cost?
Depends on scope and what you need—product, headshots, lifestyle content. We quote per project.
Is this different from regular SEO?
It's an evolution of SEO. Search is changing; we're making sure you show up in both traditional and AI results.
Is outsourced marketing cheaper than hiring?
Usually yes—no salary, benefits, or training costs. You get a full team's expertise without the overhead.
What happens if my site goes down?
We handle monitoring, backups, and emergency fixes. You never see the problem—we catch it first.
Is SEO dead because of AI?
No. Search is evolving, but organic traffic is more valuable than ever. We're adapting strategy, not abandoning it.
How do you grow followers faster?
Consistent posting, real engagement, and content people actually want to share. No bots, no shortcuts.
Should my site be fancy or simple?
Simple always wins. Users want to find what they need fast—not admire your animation skills.
What about video? Is it worth it?
Absolutely. Video gets 10x more engagement than static content. We produce testimonials, explainers, and social content.
What's the difference between SEO and AI optimization?
SEO gets you ranked on Google search. AI optimization helps your business show up as the answer when your customers use AI platforms.
Can you replace my in-house team?
We can be your team, augment what you have, or just handle specific channels. It's flexible based on your needs.
Is WordPress secure enough?
Only if it's set up right and maintained. Ours is hardened, patched, and secured—we handle all of it.
How do I get into an AI summary?
Authoritative content, clear formatting, and citations matter most. AI rewards depth and expertise.
What's the difference between paid and organic search?
Paid stops the moment you stop paying. Organic grows over time and compounds. Both matter, but organic wins long-term.
How long does a website build take?
Typically 6-12 weeks (complex builds can take much longer). We don't rush—we build something that actually works for your business.
How much am I paying for WordPress hosting?
It varies by traffic and features, but we keep it reasonable. All-inclusive—no hidden fees.
Do I need SEO if I'm doing ads?
Yes. Ads are expensive and temporary—SEO builds a foundation that pays off for years.
How involved do I need to be?
We do the work, but you stay in the loop. Monthly strategy calls and approval on major decisions—that's it.
Can AI write my content for me?
AI can draft, but it needs a human brain to make it authentic. We use AI as a tool, not a replacement.
Does Instagram still work for business?
Absolutely, especially with Reels. Video drives reach right now—we make sure you're creating it.
How long does a video take to produce?
2-4 weeks from concept to final edit, depending on complexity. Strategic videos take more time than quick social clips.
Will AI optimization hurt my regular search traffic?
Nope. Good AI optimization is just SEO done right. It improves everything.
How do I rank in an AI-dominated search world?
Expertise, uniqueness, and citations matter more than ever. We build content that AI actually recommends.
What's the point of social if I'm not selling directly?
Social works by warming up the top of your marketing funnel. It builds awareness, trust, and community.
Can you use this content across platforms?
Yes. A professional shoot gives you photos and video content you can repurpose across every channel.
What if I need something outside your services?
We've got partners for whatever you need. Our network is deep and vetted.
Can I migrate to your WordPress hosting without risk?
Yes. We handle the entire migration, test everything, and launch with zero downtime.
Can you migrate my site without losing rankings?
Yes. Migrations are risky but doable. We handle redirects, technical SEO, and zero traffic loss.
Can AI optimization happen without an SEO strategy?
Not really. You need solid fundamentals first—then we layer in AI optimization on top.
How do you know SEO is actually working?
Organic traffic increases, leads from search go up, and you rank for keywords that matter. We track everything.
How do I know if social is actually working?
We track engagement, reach, traffic to your site, and conversions. If it's not moving the needle, we change strategy.
What if I need to upgrade or change something?
Easy. We're always available for updates, optimizations, and adjustments. No lengthy ticket queues.
What if I'm in a super competitive industry?
Then SEO takes longer and costs more—but the payoff is worth it. We focus on niches where you can actually win.
Is SEO still worth it in 2026?
Absolutely. Organic traffic is still the most valuable—we're just adapting how we get it.
Do you also handle editing and retouching?
Everything. Photography, videography, editing, color correction, animation—we handle the whole creative.
How do we measure if outsourced marketing is actually working?
Monthly reports, clear KPIs, and strategy sessions. We're transparent about what's working and what's not.
What if I already have a website that's not working?
We audit it, identify the leaks, and rebuild or refactor. Bad websites are worse than no website.
How soon will I see results from AI optimization?
2-3 months for initial visibility in AI summaries. Consistency over time is what drives real results.
Do I still own and have access to my own site?
Yes, always. You have full admin access to your WordPress dashboard and can export your content or move hosts at any time. We do not hold your site hostage.
Can you manage ads across platforms?
Yes—Facebook, Instagram, Google, LinkedIn, TikTok. We pick the right mix for your audience, not just the trendy ones.
How is your Search & AI service different from standard SEO?
Standard SEO focuses on rankings in the traditional blue-link results. Our Search & AI service covers that and adds GEO — optimizing to get cited in AI-generated answers on ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, and Copilot. It is the same foundation with a broader target.
What if my ads don't work?
We pause underperformers fast and redirect money to what's actually converting. Testing and tweaking is built into every campaign.
How much does WordPress hosting with Sproutbox cost?
Hosting plans start at $150/month and include management, updates, backups, and support. Plans scale based on traffic and the level of maintenance needed. We are transparent about pricing — no surprise fees for routine requests.
Do you have remote work options?
We're flexible about how and where people work, as long as the work gets done and collaboration stays strong. Most of our team is in Portland, but we're open to conversations about what works best.
How often should I email my list?
Weekly is ideal for most businesses. Consistency beats sporadic blasts every time.
What industries do you have paid advertising experience in?
We have run campaigns across professional services, healthcare, automotive, CPG, B2B SaaS, non-profit, and retail. If your industry has a specific compliance angle — healthcare or financial services — we know the restrictions.
Do you write the email copy?
Yes. Our team writes the copy, designs the template, and sets up the send. You review and approve before anything goes to your list. If you prefer to write your own copy, we can handle strategy and production only.
Can we use the studio content for multiple campaigns?
Absolutely. That's the whole point. We shoot strategically so you can repurpose content across email, social, your website, ads—getting more value from every shoot.
How do I know if you can actually help my business?
Good question. That's what the call is for. We'll ask about your goals, your challenges, and what you've tried before. Then we can tell you whether we think we can move the needle or if you'd be better served elsewhere. We've turned down work before, and we'll do it again if we don't think we can deliver.
What is a realistic open rate to aim for?
It depends on your industry and list quality. B2B lists typically see 25–40% open rates. B2C and retail run 15–25%. What matters more than the industry average is the trend — we want to see your rates improving over time.
What if I want to move to a different host later?
We make it straightforward. We will export your site files and database and give you everything you need to move. We would rather earn your business every month than trap you in a service you are not happy with.
What is your typical pricing for a brand video?
Brand videos start around $3,000–$5,000 for a single-day shoot with editing. Larger productions with scripting, multiple locations, or animation are scoped individually. We give you a detailed quote before anything is booked.
Do you travel outside Portland for shoots?
Yes. We travel for the right project. Travel costs are scoped into the estimate upfront. We work across the Pacific Northwest regularly and can go wherever the project calls for.
How do you measure whether we are being cited by AI?
We run regular citation audits across ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, and Copilot using relevant queries for your business. We also track AI referral traffic in GA4 — if an AI names you, those sessions show up as a separate channel.
What's the first call actually for?
It's a conversation. We want to understand what you're working with, what's working, and what isn't. No pitch. No pressure to sign anything. We just ask good questions and listen.
What makes an email convert?
Clear subject line, one main idea, personal tone, and a single obvious next step. Keep it simple.
Do you handle plugin and theme updates?
Yes. We review, test, and apply updates on a regular schedule. We do not blindly auto-update everything — plugin updates can break sites, so we test on staging first for anything significant.
Do you design print and physical materials too?
Yes. Business cards, brochures, signage, packaging, trade show materials — anything that carries the brand. We design for both digital and physical applications from the start so nothing feels inconsistent in the real world.
How long is the call?
Usually 30 minutes. Enough time to talk through the basics without eating your whole afternoon. If we're both into it and want to dig deeper, we'll grab more time.
How long does a rebrand take?
This depends on the scope and scale of the project, but most of our rebrands take between 4 and 8 weeks.
What does a website redesign cost?
Most marketing websites run $8,000–$20,000 depending on scope, number of pages, and custom functionality. We give you a detailed estimate before anything starts — no surprises mid-project.
What if we do not like the initial direction?
We present two or three distinct directions, not one take-it-or-leave-it concept. If none of them land, we brief you on why we went that direction and start again. We build in alignment checkpoints specifically to avoid late-stage surprises.
How is managed WordPress hosting different from cheap shared hosting?
Shared hosting like GoDaddy or Bluehost puts your site on a server with hundreds of others, which tanks performance and creates security risk. WP Engine is built specifically for WordPress — faster load times, better security, automatic scaling, and actual support from people who know WordPress.
Can you do GEO without also doing traditional SEO?
Technically yes, but it is not recommended. AI systems cite content that already ranks well in traditional search. If your SEO foundation is weak, GEO efforts have less to build on. The two strategies compound when done together.
What is the minimum engagement?
We typically ask for a 3-month minimum to get campaigns set up, tested, and optimized. After that, we work month-to-month. We want to earn your business every month, not lock you in.
What if I hate the first draft?
We come back with new directions. Branding is iterative, we keep evolving until something clicks.
Do you work with businesses outside Portland?
Yes. Our team is Portland-based but we work with clients across the US. Local SEO is Portland-focused by nature, but content strategy and technical SEO work for any market.
Will my ads look like everyone else's?
Nope. We build creative that fits your brand and actually stops the scroll—generic ads are a waste of budget.
What is the difference between local SEO and national SEO?
Local SEO targets people searching in a specific geographic area — ideal for Portland businesses serving local clients. National SEO targets broader, higher-competition keywords. Most of our clients benefit from both running together.
What kind of projects will I work on?
You'll work across multiple clients and disciplines, depending on your role. One day you might be brainstorming strategy, the next executing a campaign or creating content. We're a full-service agency, so you'll get exposure to different types of work and clients—which means constant learning.
Do we pay the ad platforms directly, or do you handle billing?
You pay the platforms directly. We manage the accounts on your behalf, but your card is on file with Google, Meta, and LinkedIn. That way you always own the accounts and have full visibility into spend.
Will my new site be optimized for SEO from day one?
Yes. SEO is baked into our build process, not added at the end. That means proper site structure, fast load times, schema markup, meta tags, and content set up to rank before we hand the keys over.
How long does a typical shoot take?
It depends on scope. A product shoot might be 1-2 hours. A brand video could take a full day or more. We'll map out the timeline upfront so you know exactly what to expect and plan your team's involvement accordingly.
What ongoing support do you offer after launch?
We offer hosting and maintenance plans that cover security updates, performance monitoring, plugin management, and content edits. You will not be left on your own after launch.
What platforms do you manage?
Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok, Pinterest, and X. We focus your budget on the platforms where your audience actually spends time rather than spreading thin across everything.
How do you handle deliverability issues?
We monitor deliverability metrics closely — bounce rate, spam complaints, sender reputation. If something is off, we diagnose it fast. Most deliverability issues come from list hygiene problems, which we catch early by cleaning lists on a regular cadence.
How do you track ROI for outsourced marketing?
We set up proper conversion tracking in GA4 and your CRM from the start. Every month you get a clear report showing what channels drove leads, what it cost, and what it returned. No vanity metrics.
What does schema markup do and why does it matter?
Schema markup is structured data that tells search engines and AI systems exactly what your page is about. It helps Google generate rich results and helps AI tools identify your content as a reliable, citable source. We implement and maintain schema across your site as part of this service.
How do AI systems decide what to cite?
AI systems favor content that is authoritative, specific, well-structured, and consistent across multiple sources. That means strong schema markup, entity recognition, citations from trusted directories, and content that answers questions completely rather than vaguely.
Will a rebrand actually help sales?
If done right, yes. Good branding builds trust, attracts the right customers, and justifies premium pricing.
What's the work culture actually like at Sproutbox?
We're collaborative, not hierarchical. You'll work directly with clients and teammates who care about doing good work. There's no ego or politics—just people who want to solve problems and build great marketing together. We value autonomy, so you're trusted to own your work.
Can I scale up or down?
Yes. Monthly retainers are flexible. Need more hours one month or less the next? Just let your account lead know and we'll adjust.
Do you handle list management too?
Yes. Segmentation, deliverability, compliance, and strategy. We handle the boring stuff so you focus on the wins.
Will you try to sell me something on the call?
We're not that kind of agency. If it feels like a good partnership after we talk, we'll explore what that could look like. If it doesn't, we'll tell you that too. Better for both of us to be honest upfront.
Can email really compete with social media?
Yes! Both social media and email marketing are powerful tools to connect with your audience. When done right, email marketing can increase brand loyalty AND conversions.
How do you handle negative comments or a PR situation?
We monitor your accounts daily and flag anything that needs a fast response. For sensitive situations, we brief you and get approval before responding. You are never out of the loop.
Do you do keyword research as part of your SEO service?
Yes, always. Keyword research is the foundation of everything else. We find the terms your buyers actually search, map them to the right pages, and build a content plan around the gaps.
Do you write the captions and create the visuals?
Yes. Our team handles strategy, writing, design, and scheduling. You review before anything goes live, but we do the heavy lifting so you are not stuck in a content hamster wheel every week.
Can I mix and match services?
Absolutely. Most clients combine two or more services — for example, brand + website, or social media + advertising. We'll help you figure out the right mix for your goals and budget.
How do you track conversions and report on performance?
We set up conversion tracking in GA4 and the ad platforms before any spend goes out. You get a monthly report showing cost per lead, ROAS, and which campaigns are pulling their weight. We do not hide behind impressions and clicks.
Is this a consultation where you tell me what to do?
Not really. It's more of a conversation to see if we could actually work together. We'll share some thoughts based on what you tell us, but the goal is mutual—to figure out if there's a real fit before anyone commits to anything.
What is the difference between a logo and a full brand identity?
A logo is a single mark. A brand identity is the complete system: logo, color palette, typography, graphic elements, photo style, and usage guidelines. A logo without a system gets applied inconsistently and loses impact fast.
What is included in your WordPress hosting plan?
Managed hosting on WP Engine, security monitoring, daily backups, plugin and theme updates, uptime monitoring, and a staging environment for testing changes before they go live. You get a full technical team, not just a server.
What if I'm not sure what I need yet?
Perfect. That's exactly what these calls are for. Some people know they need help with content, others know their website isn't working but don't know why. We help sort that out together.
What does GEO service cost?
GEO is typically bundled with SEO rather than sold as a standalone service. For clients already doing SEO with us, GEO optimization is included. Standalone GEO engagements start at $1,500/month.
What's included in a brand project?
Strategy, visual identity, messaging, logo, color palette, fonts, and guidelines so you stay consistent.
What makes outsourced marketing more cost-effective than hiring in-house?
A full in-house team — CMO, designer, SEO specialist, ads manager, social manager — easily runs $300,000+ per year in salaries alone. Outsourcing gives you that entire skill set for a fraction of the cost, with no recruiting, benefits, or turnover risk.
How many logo concepts do we get?
We present two to three logo directions in the initial round. From there, you pick a direction and we refine. Most projects reach a final logo in two to three rounds of revisions.
Do you host non-WordPress sites too?
Our managed hosting is focused on WordPress. For sites built on Astro, we deploy to Netlify. If you have a different platform, ask us — we can usually accommodate or point you to the right solution.
How long until I see results?
Most campaigns need 2-4 weeks to gather enough data to optimize. Patience now, momentum later.
How do you handle WordPress security?
We use WP Engine's built-in security tools plus additional hardening: login protection, malware scanning, firewall rules, and regular security audits. If your site is ever compromised, we remediate it at no extra charge.
Do you optimize for voice search too?
Yes. Voice search queries are longer and more conversational than typed searches. We structure content to answer those questions directly, which overlaps heavily with AI citation optimization. One content strategy covers both.
How does SEO work alongside paid ads?
They complement each other. Paid ads give you immediate visibility while SEO builds long-term authority. We often use paid data to inform SEO strategy — if a keyword converts well in ads, it belongs in the SEO plan too.
Can you migrate content from our existing site?
Yes. We handle content migration as part of the project. We audit what you have, keep what is working, and rewrite or cut what is not.
Do we need to come to your studio, or can you come to us?
We have a full studio in Portland if you want to work here, but we also shoot on location—your office, your warehouse, wherever makes sense for what we're creating. We'll recommend what works best based on your project.
How much should I spend on ads?
It depends on your goals and market but we usually recommend starting with $3K-8K/month to test what works. Once you find your winning formula, we scale it.
How many rounds of revisions are included?
Two rounds of revisions are included for video projects. Most projects are done in one. We do a detailed creative brief before the shoot so we are aligned on direction before the camera rolls.
What do you need from us before a shoot?
A solid creative brief, confirmed location access, and a clear shot list. We handle the brief and shot list — we just need your input on goals, audience, and any brand guidelines. The more context we have upfront, the better the shoot.
Can you migrate my existing WordPress site to your hosting?
Yes. We handle the full migration — files, database, domain DNS, SSL certificate — with no downtime. We test everything on the new environment before flipping the switch.
Do you handle ad creative and design too?
Yes. Our in-house creative team builds the ads — copy, graphics, video — alongside the media buy. You get strategy and execution from one team, which means the creative actually matches the campaign goals.
Do we need to have our copy and photos ready before we start?
Not necessarily. We can write copy and shoot photos as part of the project. Starting with finished content is faster, but we can build the two tracks in parallel if needed.
What kind of work can you produce in the studio?
Everything. Product shots, lifestyle photography, brand videos, testimonials, social content, website imagery, basically anything that needs to look professional and on-brand. We handle the lighting, equipment, and direction so you don't have to think about it.
Can you produce drone footage?
Yes. We have FAA-certified drone operators on staff. Aerial footage is available as an add-on for brand, real estate, event, and outdoor projects.
How do you measure AI citation and visibility?
We run regular manual audits querying AI platforms with terms relevant to your business and log whether you appear. We also track AI referral sessions in GA4. As AI search matures, more measurement tools are becoming available and we incorporate them as they do.
What does growth look like here?
We promote from within and invest in people who want to grow. Whether that's moving into a senior role, leading a discipline, or taking on more strategic work, we create opportunities. We also have a professional development budget so you can keep learning.
What happens if something breaks on my site?
We monitor your site around the clock and respond to downtime and critical errors fast. For non-emergency issues, most requests are handled within one business day. You have a real team in your corner, not a support ticket queue.
Do we need to provide photos and videos, or can you create content?
Both options work. If you have great assets, we use them. If not, our photo and video team can shoot content specifically for social. We find clients who invest in original content see meaningfully better engagement.
How do you hire contractors and freelancers?
We work with talented freelancers on project-based needs. We value quality and reliability, so we often work with the same people repeatedly—it's not one-off gigs.
Can you run influencer campaigns?
Yes. We identify and vet influencers who align with your brand, handle the outreach and contracts, manage the campaign, and track performance. We focus on micro-influencers with real engagement over inflated follower counts.
Can you advertise on platforms beyond Google and Meta?
Yes. LinkedIn for B2B, TikTok for consumer brands, YouTube for video-first campaigns, and programmatic display for retargeting. We recommend the mix based on your audience and budget, not what is easy for us to manage.
Can you rebrand just my logo?
We can, but it's usually a missed opportunity. A real rebrand goes deeper by tackling strategy first, then design.
How do you grow an email list fast?
Opt-ins on your website, lead magnets that actually matter, and strategic promotions. No bought lists, ever.
Will people unsubscribe if I email too much?
Not if you're sending something they actually want. Bad emails get ignored. Good ones get opened.
Do you replace our in-house team or work alongside them?
Either. Some clients hand off marketing entirely. Others have an in-house coordinator and use us as the specialists behind them. We flex to fit your structure.
What is AEO and how does it relate to GEO?
AEO stands for Answer Engine Optimization — it is about getting your content to appear directly in AI-generated answers, voice search results, and featured snippets. GEO is the broader practice that includes AEO. They overlap significantly and we treat them as part of the same strategy.
What happens if my rankings drop?
We investigate immediately. Ranking drops usually have a clear cause — algorithm update, technical issue, or a competitor gaining ground. We identify it, brief you on what happened, and adjust the strategy.
Can you help with brand messaging and copywriting?
Yes. Visual identity and brand voice should come from the same place. We offer brand messaging as part of a full brand engagement — positioning statement, tagline, voice guidelines, and messaging framework.
What is an AI Overview and how does it affect my traffic?
AI Overviews are the AI-generated summaries Google shows at the top of search results. They intercept clicks that would have gone to organic results. The goal of our Search & AI service is to get your content cited inside those answers, not buried below them.
Do you run A/B tests?
Yes. Subject lines, send times, CTAs, and content formats. We do not test for the sake of it — we test hypotheses that actually affect revenue. Results from one campaign feed into the next.
Do I need to prepare anything?
Nope. Just show up. If you want to jot down a few things that are bugging you about your current situation, great—but it's not required. We're good at getting the story out of people.
Can you segment our list and personalize content?
Yes. Segmentation and personalization are core to how we approach email. Sending the same email to your entire list is usually leaving revenue on the table. We build segments based on behavior, purchase history, and engagement level.
Can we start with a few services and add more over time?
Absolutely. Most clients start with two or three channels and expand as they see results. We scope what makes sense now and build a roadmap for what to add next.
What if I'm just shopping around?
No judgment. You should talk to a few people. We just ask that you're honest about it, so we know what kind of conversation to have. We're confident in what we do, but we also know we're not the right fit for everyone.
Do you handle the copywriting too?
We do. Headlines, ad copy, landing pages—everything's written to sell, not just to exist.
What happens after the shoot?
We handle all the editing, color grading, and retouching. You get final files ready for web, social, print, or ads. Plus guidance on how to use them across your marketing.
Schedule a 30-min call.
Thirty minutes to talk about your business. Where you are, where you want to go, and whether we're the right fit to help you get there.
No pitch deck. No pressure. And no long-term contracts. We'd rather earn your business every step of the way.