Meet Andy Robson, the driving force behind SQUIDGY, a digital agency that specialises in SEO, PPC, and paid social. Based in Newcastle upon Tyne, Andy’s journey began 14 years ago when SQUIDGY was first incorporated. However, it wasn’t until four years ago that he felt the business evolved into what he now calls a ‘proper’ agency—a team of ten people, fully aligned, and pushing forward in the competitive digital space. What started as a one-man band has grown into a well-oiled machine that’s helping clients cut through the noise in the digital landscape.
Taking the Leap
Andy’s philosophy in business is simple but powerful: nothing is risk-free. “I’ve seen people hesitate because they’re looking for guarantees, but you’ve got to take the leap sometimes,” he says. This advice has guided him through crucial decisions—from hiring to exploring new tactics and strategies. “Not everything will go as planned, but learning from those experiences is essential. Just keep moving forward.”
It’s this balance of pragmatism and courage that has helped SQUIDGY evolve from a solo venture to a thriving agency. There’s no waiting around for the ‘perfect’ moment—Andy’s approach is to jump in, course-correct when necessary, and keep the momentum going.
The Worst Advice (And How He Dodged It)
Running a business comes with its fair share of questionable advice, and Andy’s no stranger to that. One standout moment came when he was advised to extend payment terms to 90 days in hopes of attracting more clients. “That could’ve been a disaster,” he recalls. Instead, SQUIDGY stuck with a 14-day payment term after invoicing on the first of the month, a structure that fits perfectly with the digital agency world. “It’s rarely questioned, and had we extended the terms, it could have caused real problems, especially in the early days.”
Looking Ahead: Expanding the Team
The next 12 months for SQUIDGY are all about building ahead of demand. Andy is focusing on expanding his team before the workload increases, giving new hires time to integrate smoothly and develop their skills. This isn’t just about meeting client needs; it’s about creating space for the entire team to grow, both personally and professionally. “Bringing in new talent early reduces the risk for a small agency like ours. It gives us room to breathe, improve services, and invest in internal growth.”
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Digital Agency Owners
For those considering starting their own digital agency, Andy’s advice is refreshingly straightforward: “Go for it and get stuck in.” He stresses the importance of starting small, managing risks, and embracing the hard work that comes with it. With the digital agency space growing ever more crowded, he believes that success lies in building a business around what you truly love. “When you’re passionate about what you do, the rest will follow.”
A Growing Business in a Dynamic Industry
As SQUIDGY continues to grow and adapt, Andy remains committed to fostering a supportive and dynamic workplace. His approach to business growth is not about rushing for the next big contract or quick wins but about laying a strong foundation for the long term. His decision to prioritise team integration, internal development, and client satisfaction reflects a thoughtful, measured approach to success in an industry that never stands still.
Connect with Andy
If you’d like to learn more about Andy’s journey or explore how SQUIDGY can help your business navigate the digital space, feel free to connect with him on LinkedIn or visit SQUIDGY’s website. Andy’s always happy to chat, especially if it’s about the delicate balance between risk and reward in today’s fast-paced business world!