LinkedIn Ads Agency vs In-House

"We can just do it internally. Our Social Media Manager can handle it." This is how 90% of failed LinkedIn campaigns start. Posting organic content and running paid acquisition are two entirely different skill sets. One requires creativity and empathy. The other requires statistics, finance, and technical tracking. Here is the breakdown of the three paths.

1. Safety (In-House)

Pros:

• Brand Voice: They know your product better than anyone.
• Speed: Instant communication.
• Cost: No management fee (just salary).

Cons:

• Skill Gap: A generalist marketer is not a LinkedIn Ads specialist. They will likely burn $10k learning the platform.
• Tunnel Vision: They only see your account. They don't know what's working across the industry.

2. Speed (Freelancer)

Pros:

• Cost: Cheaper than an agency ($1k - $3k/month).
• Specialization: You can find a "LinkedIn Ads Expert."

Cons:

• Reliance: If they get sick or win the lottery, your campaigns stop.
• Limited Resources: They don't have a design team or copywriter. You still have to provide the assets.

3. Scale (Agency)

Pros:

• Benchmarking: They manage 50 other clients. They know exactly what CPM is "normal" right now.
• Full Stack: They usually provide design and copy.
• Beta Access: Agencies often get access to new features before the public.

Cons:

• Cost: Expensive ($5k+ per month or 15% of spend).
• Attention: You are one of many clients. If you are small, you might get the "Junior" account manager.

The Verdict

• Spend < $3k/month: Do it yourself. (Learn the basics).
• Spend $3k - $10k/month: Hire a Freelancer.
• Spend $10k+/month: Hire an Agency.

Summary

Don't hand the keys to the Ferrari to someone who just got their learner's permit. LinkedIn Ads are expensive. Mistakes are costly. If you are spending serious money, hire a serious pilot.