Swindon firm's four years of helping businesses grow online

Swindon-based digital marketing specialist Rob Curtis started The Pursuit Agency in 2022 to build a digital marketing agency that people could genuinely trust, something he felt was lacking in his industry.
He said: “I wanted to create a business that centred around trust. One focused on meaningful results, giving honest advice and one that becomes a part of the businesses it worked with.
"I didn’t want to create a business that was simply acting as another supplier.
“Since that little ambition, we have grown a brilliant team, worked with more than 100 businesses and helped generate over £6m in revenue for clients of all shapes and sizes and I’m incredibly proud of what we have achieved to date.”
To mark The Pursuit Agency’s fourth birthday, Rob has shared the four wins and four lessons that have shaped both him and his business.
The four wins
Recognition: “In our first four years, we’ve had some fantastic recognition for our team and their work. Winning Great British Expos’ Start-Up of the Year and the Wiltshire Techies’ Driven by Data award were both incredibly proud moments. 
"We have also been shortlisted for national business awards and recognised within the local business community.”
Built long-term relationships: “One of the things I am most proud of will never be fully captured by an award or a financial figure. 
"We’re not an outside company that sends a report once a month and disappears until the next invoice, we become invested in the businesses we support and are often included in conversations that extend well beyond marketing. 
"For me, that’s what a genuine partnership looks like.”
Becoming ‘more’: “When The Pursuit Agency launched, most of our conversations centred around SEO, Google Ads and lead generation. Four years on, our business has evolved from a traditional digital marketing agency into a more strategic growth partner. 
"We work closely to provide information but also understand what a business is trying to achieve and find the most effective way to move it forward.”
Helping people grow: "Finally, the part I’m proud of the growth we’ve seen in our clients’ businesses because of their collaboration with us. We’ve seen businesses grow their teams, enter new markets and gain confidence in digital marketing. 
"Knowing we have played a part in these businesses journeys is something I’ll never take for granted.”
Rob added: “When I started the business four years ago, I simply wanted to build an agency that genuinely cared about its clients and delivered results that made a real difference.
“Looking back now, I'm incredibly proud of how far we've come, but even more grateful to every client, partner and supporter who has been part of the journey. Their trust has allowed us to grow year after year.”
The four lessons
You don’t need all the answers: “In four years, I’ve become more comfortable admitting that I don’t always have the answer and that leadership is not about pretending to know everything. Leadership is about remaining curious, asking for help and listening to the people around you. I no longer see it as a weakness.”
Hard conversations and the most rewarding: “I’ve had to tell clients their approach isn’t working or had to admit something’s gone wrong or had to chase for money owed. None of these conversations are enjoyable. 
"But I’ve learnt that honesty, delivered with empathy and respect, can lead to stronger relationships and some of the strongest relationships we have today came from difficult conversations which led to successful campaigns.”
Find the right clients, not more clients: “When you start a business, it’s an impulse to say yes to every opportunity. You’re building a business, you don’t want to say ‘no’. But not every opportunity will be the right fit and that’s okay. 
"Saying ‘no’ can be difficult, particularly when you are responsible for salaries and overheads but accepting the wrong work can cost you more. 
"The right clients energise your team, value your expertise and allow you to produce your best work.”
Always remember why: “Over the past four years, I’ve realised building a successful business is not only about turnover or awards, but also about creating a life where you can be present for the people who matter most. 
"I don’t believe there is a perfect work-life balance as there are periods when the business needs more from me and moments when family has to come first. What I’ve found is a better understanding of how to juggle both.”
Since its launch, The Pursuit Agency has adapted with its clients and the rapidly evolving digital landscape, ensuring clients benefit from the latest strategies and technologies including AI.
Rob said: “Digital marketing has changed enormously over the last four years, but one thing that hasn’t is the importance of building strong relationships and putting clients first. 
"We're excited about what the future holds and remain committed to helping businesses grow through honest advice and innovative thinking.”
The Pursuit Agency specialises in SEO, pay-per-click advertising, content marketing and digital strategy, helping businesses improve their online presence and generate sustainable growth. 
To find out more visit https://thepursuitagency.com
 

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