What Actually Happens in a Marketing Discovery Call?
- Katie

- Oct 27
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 24
If you have ever wondered what actually happens on a Marketing Discovery Call and whether it is worth your time then this post is for you.

At Spark & Forge, our marketing discovery call is our Catalyst Call. It is not a sales trap or a generic chat. It is a focussed 20 minute discovery call designed to see whether we are the right strategic marketing partner for your business and whether you are the right fit for us.
It is the moment we both get clarity: you on what your next marketing step could be and us on whether we can help you deliver it.
TLDR: a marketing strategy call (our Catalyst Call) is a two-way discovery session.
It helps you understand how we work, lets us understand your goals and ensures that when we move forward, it is built on mutual fit, trust and clear purpose.
What is a catalyst call?
The Catalyst Call is our introductory marketing discovery call. It is a 20-minute conversation that explores your brand, marketing challenges, and ambitions. It is designed for business owners ready to take marketing seriously but unsure what the next step looks like.
Here is what happens:
You share. We listen.
We will ask a few questions about your business goals, current marketing activity, your current challenges and what success would look like for you.
We assess fit.
We look at whether Spark & Forge’s approach aligns with your needs and if our values and processes are a good match.
We identify the right path forward.
If we both feel there is a fit, we outline the next strategic steps, whether that is a monthly retainer package, project work or marketing consultancy. If it's not quite right we will let you know there and then.
Why it matters: fit first, strategy second
Not every agency suits every business and that is a good thing!
We firmly believe that great partnerships start with honest conversations. Our Catalyst Call helps both sides confirm fit before any commitment. It ensures that when we do work together, it is aligned, productive and built to last.
Here is why that matters:
You save time and money. There is no point investing in strategy that is not right for your stage or goals.
You gain clarity fast. We help pinpoint whether your marketing challenge is strategic, operational or creative.
You meet your potential team. You get a feel for how we think, communicate, and collaborate.
What a Catalyst call is not?
Our Catalyst calls are absolutely not a pitch or a high pressure close. We won't recommend what you don't need. We won't
How can I book a catalyst call?
Ready to have a conversation?
FAQs
Is the Catalyst Call really free?
Yes - absolutely no strings attached. It is a genuine discovery call.
Who will I speak with?
One or both of our Directors - Katie and Benn, not a salesperson.
Is this a sales call?
No. It is a discovery, fit and clarity call. We both decide if collaboration makes sense.
What will I need to prepare?
It would be great if you have a few thoughts about your current marketing - what is working well and what challenges are you having, your business goals and what success means to you.
Why is the call only 20 minutes?
We believe that focus delivers clarity. We respect your time and get straight to what matters.
What happens if we are not the right fit?
If we are not the right fit we will recommend alternative next steps or resources to help you move forward. If we can connect you with someone else who we think will be a better fit, we will.
Can I bring my co-founder or marketing lead?
Absolutely! Collaboration starts from the first conversation.
How soon can we start if we are a fit?
We will get a formal proposal out to you within 72 hours. Once this is signed, we can onboard immediately after.
Why does Spark & Forge offer this call for free?
Because the best relationships begin with trust, not transactions.
