This guide is here to walk you through the steps, answer some of the big questions, and help you figure out if (and when) bringing in a HubSpot implementation partner makes sense. Spoiler alert: we’re also going to tell you why we think we’d be a pretty awesome fit for your business!
Let’s start with the basics: why might you need a HubSpot partner in the first place? HubSpot is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, but when it comes to setting it up to match your specific business needs, the complexity can ramp up pretty quickly. Some of the main challenges people often face is data migration, process set up and automation, system integrations, customisation to specific needs and making the most out of the tools they have. Mistakes made during the transition journey can lead to operational disruptions and incorrect data which can affect overall business functions!
If you’ve ever tried to build complex workflows, integrate external platforms, or customise dashboards and reporting to get the exact insights your team needs, you know that having an expert guide can save a lot of time, frustration, and (let’s face it) mistakes. A great HubSpot partner can:
At its core, a HubSpot partner helps you make HubSpot work for you - not the other way around.
You might be wondering, “Can’t I just figure this out myself?” The short answer is yes - sort of. But here’s a more detailed answer: you can get started with HubSpot on your own, but there are certain telltale signs that bringing in a HubSpot partner is the smart move.
Here’s when you might want to consider bringing in some expert help:
If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to start looking for the right partner.
So, how do you actually go about finding “the one”? Choosing the right HubSpot partner is all about finding a match that gets you and your business. Here’s what to consider...
First things first – experience. It’s everything. You’ll want to check how long they’ve been in the game and what kind of businesses they’ve worked with. Have they done projects similar to yours? Do they specialise in your industry? A seasoned partner will know the nuances that matter and help you avoid rookie mistakes. And let’s face it, who has time for that?
Now, let’s talk credentials. Certifications and accreditations are the official stamp of approval. HubSpot offers a bunch of certifications and you want to make sure your partner has them. It’s not just about ticking boxes; these certs show that your partner is keeping up with the latest best practices and platform updates. Look for partners with accreditations, it’s a good sign they know their stuff and have the backing to prove it!
Next up, client testimonials. What have they actually delivered for others? Reading reviews and case studies can give you an idea of what working with them will be like. Real world results and client stories will tell you if this partner can not only talk the talk but also walk the walk. And honestly, it's comforting to hear from other businesses like yours that have seen success with them.
You wouldn't necessarily consider this but cultural fit is another key attribute! You’ll be working closely with this partner, so you want to make sure there’s a good relationship between your teams. Are they easy to work with? Do they align with your company’s values and communication style? It’s not just about skills, it’s about whether they ‘get’ your business and team dynamics. You’re in this for the long haul, so don’t overlook this piece of the puzzle.
Finally, to make things a little easier (and more structured), consider creating an RFP (Request for Proposal) and a decision matrix. This will help you compare potential partners side by side on the criteria that matter most to you. Things like experience, certifications, client feedback and cultural fit can be scored, giving you a clear image of which partner is the best match for your needs. A decision matrix ensures you’re making an informed choice rather than going with the one that just feels right in the moment.
So, you’ve got your HubSpot partner on board – that's great! But let’s be honest, a successful collaboration doesn’t just happen by magic. It’s all about setting the right foundations from day one. Here’s how to make sure you and your partner are totally in sync.
First up, set clear expectations. It might sound basic, but seriously, this is where a lot of projects can go sideways. Sit down (virtually or in person) and get clear on what you both want. What’s the big picture? What are the nitty gritty deliverables? When do you need things done by? What is your budget? The more detail, the better. No one wants that awkward moment halfway through when you realise your partner thought “next month” meant a different thing!
Then, let’s talk about success metrics. You don’t just want to cross the finish line, you want to know how well you’re running the race. What does success look like for you? Think about KPIs like how long it’ll take to complete each phase, how smoothly the data migration goes (because no one needs a data disaster) and how effective those new workflows are. Defining these upfront keeps everyone accountable and on track.
And don’t forget to articulate your goals clearly. What’s the “why” behind this project? Make sure your partner knows exactly what you’re aiming for, so they can tailor their approach to hit the right targets. A good partner will ask lots of questions here – that’s a great sign they’re on the same wavelength.
Now, let’s outline those timelines. Deadlines matter, but it’s not just about when the whole project wraps up. Breaking it down into phases with specific timelines helps keep everything moving. Plus, it’s a lifesaver when you’re juggling multiple priorities.
Deliverables – they’re your partner’s promise to you. Make sure they’re spelled out in black and white. What exactly are you expecting? Whether it's configured workflows or seamless integrations, getting this nailed down avoids any "I thought you meant this!" confusion later.
Be prepared to invest time. While your HubSpot partner will handle a lot of the heavy lifting, they’ll still need your input. Make sure you have a dedicated internal point of contact to manage the relationship and ensure a smooth process.
Oh, and here’s a big one: communication. Proactive communication from your partner and yourself is key. You don’t want to be chasing them for updates and they don't want to chase you for confirmations either. Make sure you agree on how often you'll touch base, whether that’s a weekly call or a quick email check in. You should always feel like you’re in the loop without having to ask.
Challenges? Yep, they’re bound to pop up. Unfortunately it's just part of the process. But when they do, it’s all about how you and your partner handle them together. If you’ve got a strong, transparent relationship, you'll tackle any bumps in the road like a team.
So if you've read this blog I think it's safe to say you're looking for your perfect match... well you're in luck you've found us! At BBD Boom we check all the boxes. Not only are we a HubSpot Elite Solutions Partner (meaning we're the highest tier of HubSpot Partners and is considered the most exclusive) but we also have numerous accreditations to back our experience.
We know HubSpot inside out, and we’ve helped businesses just like yours crush their CRM goals. Whether you’re a fast growing startup or a huge enterprise, we’ve got the experience to navigate the challenges and get you the results you’re after.
And let’s talk about results. We don’t just hand you a platform and say “Good luck!” We’re here to deliver actual, measurable wins. Our clients love us (and we’ve got over 200 reviews and case studies to prove it). Whether it’s smoother data migration, setting up workflows that just work or aligning everything to your business goals, we’re all about making HubSpot work for you.
One of the biggest reasons people choose BBD Boom? We’re all about relationships. We don’t do cookie cutter solutions. We take the time to really understand your business and your goals. That way, we can tailor everything to fit – and we’re super easy to work with. No corporate jargon, just straight up, proactive communication and a genuine partnership.
If you’re looking for a team that’s as invested in your success as you are, we’re the perfect fit. With BBD Boom, you’re not just getting a HubSpot partner – you’re getting a team that’s got your back every step of the way.