Division of Labor: A Comprehensive Review of the Advertising Agency for Startups

Division of Labor is a San Francisco-based advertising agency specializing in helping startups and brands that think like startups. With a focus on companies that have secured Series B funding, Division of Labor excels in creating campaigns that build brand awareness, drive website traffic, and increase conversions for both B2C and B2B companies. Their portfolio includes notable clients like Stytch, Statsig, Dropbox, Opendoor, Roku, and MetroMile, as well as established brands like Nike, Ford, and Microsoft. Offering creative-only, creative + strategy, and media buy services, Division of Labor is a go-to agency for startups looking to make a big impact.

Pros and Cons of Division of Labor

Creativity and Innovation

One of the standout features of Division of Labor is their ability to craft highly creative and attention-grabbing campaigns. Clients consistently praise their innovative approach, with one reviewer stating, "We LOVE their creativity and the way they can come up with campaigns that really grab someone's attention." Another client highlighted their ability to distill complex ideas into simple, impactful messages, saying, "They use few words to get the message across." This creativity extends to their willingness to push boundaries, as seen in their recommendation to use TV ads, which resulted in significant success for one client.

However, some clients noted that the agency’s bold creative ideas occasionally required a leap of faith. For example, one client mentioned that while their edgy campaign was highly effective, it did generate a few complaints from non-target audiences. This suggests that while Division of Labor’s creativity is a major strength, it may not always align with more conservative brand identities.

Project Management and Communication

Division of Labor’s project management style is another area where they shine. Clients appreciate their responsiveness, organization, and ability to meet tight deadlines. One reviewer praised their account director for being "very responsive, organized, detailed, and connected all the dots." Another client highlighted their flexibility, stating, "They were always on time, on task, and within budget." Communication tools like Slack, email, and Zoom were effectively utilized to keep projects on track.

That said, a few clients mentioned that more upfront discussions about production details and timelines could have improved the process. For instance, one client noted, "We could’ve had a more in-depth discussion about production and delivery earlier in the process." While this didn’t detract from the overall success of the projects, it’s an area where Division of Labor could refine their approach.

Results and Impact

The measurable success of Division of Labor’s campaigns is a recurring theme in client feedback. One client reported a "77.8% increase in website traffic" following a direct mail campaign, while another saw a "40% growth in brand awareness" in a test market. Their ability to drive engagement and conversions is evident, with clients noting significant spikes in website visits, social media interactions, and even ticket sales.

However, some clients mentioned that the full impact of certain campaigns, such as those with long shelf lives (e.g., shuttle bus ads), could only be assessed after a year. This means that while the immediate results are impressive, some campaigns require patience to fully evaluate their effectiveness.

Client-Centric Approach

Clients consistently praise Division of Labor for their attentiveness and commitment to understanding their needs. One reviewer described them as "super attentive to our needs and always got back to us with a clear and concise answer." Another appreciated their ability to balance creative vision with client feedback, saying, "They were very patient with our rounds of edits and feedback and pushed back where they had expertise."

Despite this, a few clients noted that the agency could improve in setting clearer expectations around success metrics. One client advised, "Know your success metrics, and help Division of Labor understand those things clearly." This suggests that while the agency is highly collaborative, a more structured approach to defining goals could enhance the partnership.

Conclusion: Is Division of Labor Worth It?

Division of Labor is a highly creative and results-driven advertising agency that excels in helping startups and established brands alike. Their ability to craft innovative campaigns, manage projects effectively, and deliver measurable results makes them a top choice for companies looking to elevate their brand. While there are minor areas for improvement, such as more upfront discussions about production and clearer success metrics, the overwhelmingly positive client feedback speaks volumes about their expertise and dedication.

Final Verdict

If you’re a startup or a brand looking for an agency that combines creativity, flexibility, and a client-centric approach, Division of Labor is an excellent choice. Their track record of success and commitment to going above and beyond make them a standout partner in the competitive world of advertising.