Tag Archive for: b2btail

The Official eCommerce Checklist: Manufacturing eCommerce Success

The time has finally come for you to join the massive B2B eCommerce party. In fact, it’s the $1.8 TRILLION B2B eCommerce party! One challenge though: Where to start? Wouldn’t it be great to have an eCommerce checklist to walk you through the process?

We have your back.

Especially since you’ve made the outstanding decision that you can no longer afford to be the “Best Kept Secret”.

However, if you are not tech savvy and have no experience in eCommerce, just getting started can be daunting and overwhelming.

Yet, embracing eCommerce offers a healthy dose of opportunity.

The goal here is to provide the necessary tools and guidance to help you reach eCommerce success.

Above all, put you on the right path.

Not only to catch up with the competition but also to create competitive advantages that surpass others selling similar products.

This discussion primarily targets manufacturers just starting out in eCommerce.

The intention is to help Scale your Proprietary Process with eCommerce.

Another powerful approach for manufacturers entering eCommerce is to turn your proprietary process into a proprietary product.

Most importantly, entering the world of eCommerce offers extremely exciting new opportunities. 

Opens new doors. 

The bottom line: Sell more products that you are an expert at producing.

Following an eCommerce Checklist dramatically helps your cause.

eCommerce Checklist: Settlers Reap the Land 

eCommerce Checklist

I had a mentor who used to always say, “Pioneers ended up with arrows in their backs. Settlers reaped the land.”

At this stage, the pioneers of eCommerce from the 1990’s and early 2000’s paved the way for entrepreneurs today to easily navigate eCommerce strategies.

There is no reason to find arrows in your back. Therefore, come in as a settler and reap the rewards.

Take advantage of the avoiding the mistakes that others have made.

Following an eCommerce checklist helps you reduce stress while starting your eCommerce journey. 

Especially since now is the time to join the exploding B2B eCommerce market. 

To sum up, you have been in business for many years.

Selling through traditional sales channels.

You found your place in the supply chain that made sense and hopefully lots of Cents.

Now you feel like the world made a drastic change.

Yet, no one sent you a memo on these changes though.

Sometimes change is subtle.

That is until it is no longer subtle and hits you in the face.

Suddenly you find that the traditional supply chain is not following the rules as before.

For example, Alibaba provides a mammoth marketplace making Chinese-made goods much more accessible and easier to purchase. 

In addition, Amazon is soliciting Chinese manufacturers to sell direct to American consumers. 

How have these changes impacted your business? 

Well, change comes hard. Especially when the change is uninvited.

However, change is inevitable.

So let’s dig right in on the necessary steps for you to enter the eCommerce arena.

The B2BTAIL eCommerce Checklist

The B2BTAIL eCommerce Checklist is a basic guide to help you get started.

The intention is to get you in the game and on the field as soon as possible.

This eCommerce Checklist targets two separate scenarios:

  1. For the DIYer: You can use this as a tool if you are a Do-It-Yourselfer looking to tackle the entire eCommerce project internally or on your own.
  2. Otherwise, if you are hiring a web design firm to create your eCommerce store, this checklist serves as a helpful guide to complete the project in a timely fashion. Most likely, your web designer provides their own eCommerce checklist with much greater detail.

With no further ado, here we go…………

eCommerce Basics

  • Domain Name
  • Website Host
  • Select your eCommerce platform (Ex: WooCommerce, Shopify, BigCommerce, etc…)
  • Responsive Design: Mobile Friendly 
  • Company Logo
  • Color Scheme
  • Layout w/Strong Call to Action
  • Category Header of Products or Services 
  • SSL Certificate
  • Install Google Analytics
  • Sitemap
  • Keyword Research

Company Info:

  • About Us
  • Company History
  • Contact Us: Phone, Email, as well as Social Links
  • Meet the Team Page
  • Privacy Policy
  • Security Policy
  • Terms & Conditions
  • FAQ

Payment Options:

  • Credit Card Processor
  • Payment Gateway
  • Payment Options: MC, Visa, AMEX, Discover, PayPal, Google Pay
  • Set up your state sales tax
  • Fast & Easy Checkout Process 

Shipping:

  • Shipping Policy
  • UPS or FEDEX Map (show delivery times)
  • Show Shipping Rates
  • Expedite Options
  • Provide Tracking Info
  • Return Policy
  • Drop Ship Policy (if relevant)
  • Contact UPS, USPS and FEDEX for Discounts

Customer Service: 

  • Separate dedicated phone number to track eCommerce leads
  • Designated customer service staff to handle eCommerce sales – train accordingly
  • Dedicated emails with your company domain name (@your company – avoid gmail, hotmail, etc..)
  • Set up relevant email accounts (Ex: info@, Sales@, RFQ@, etc…)

Product Listings:

  • Product images (multiple angles)
  • Short Description: Quickly describe what are you selling
  • Long Description: (detailed) sizes, dimensions, specs, all necessary info (do not assume your customer knows your product)
  • Price (single price, quantity breaks, blanket orders, as well as scheduled shipments)
  • Product warranty or guarantee
  • Safety Certifications (Ex: UL Certification)
  • Product videos

eCommerce Checklist: Keep it Lean

eCommerce Checklist

As you take the plunge into eCommerce, go into the process flexible and also lean.

Consider a similar strategy as the book, “The Lean Startup” by Eric Reis.

Eric Reis preaches flexibility and agility. 

Furthermore, be laser focused with your strategic plan. However, be flexible enough to listen to customers.

You may think you have created the greatest mousetrap on the planet.

Yet, the market with confirm if you are right or not.

Give yourself timelines, benchmarks as well as specific goals.

Additionally, a major benefit with this strategy, eCommerce offers you the flexibility to change quickly.

Lastly, keep adjusting and tweaking until you find your grove.

eCommerce Checklist: Think Profit! 

 

In conclusion, what do you think? 

Are you ready now to make the leap into eCommerce? 

Still questioning why go into eCommerce in the first place?

There is truly only one answer. Profit!

Profit by opening new doors as well as explore new markets. 

If you are ready to launch your eCommerce store right now, let’s take the plunge.  

You have my word, eCommerce will create new opportunities and reach customers that you never knew existed. 

Following each item on the eCommerce Checklist is one step closer to reaching your goal. 

Just put one foot in front of the other to finally…..get in the game! 

 

Thanks for stopping by. You can also check out these helpful posts: 

 
 

 

 

 
 

 

/by

Two Options for Custom Manufacturers Implementing eCommerce

Manufacturers Implementing eCommerce. Actually sounds quite interesting, right?

An “old-school” traditional business taking on new technology.

Well, eCommerce isn’t really new anymore.

It’s an active part of our daily lives now. At least it certainly seems that way.

Why?

The convenience, efficiency and speed that eCommerce offers.

However, manufacturers implementing eCommerce for the first time face many challenges. 

Especially for custom manufacturers that do not produce a proprietary product or finished good. 

Today, let’s explore two strategies for a manufacturer to implement eCommerce by targeting its proprietary process. 

Related Article: 3 Step Approach To Scaling eCommerce for Manufacturers

Manufacturers Implementing eCommerce Opens New Doors

Implementing eCommerce awakens exciting opportunities and opens new doors.

As a custom manufacturer, you produce amazing products for other companies.

You are the widget expert. No one knows your product better than you.

You have spent years perfecting your proprietary process.

Yet, one of your biggest challenges: how do you scale your proprietary process? 

There must be plenty of potential customers searching for your products, services, and solutions.

Where are they?

How do you find them?

How can you narrow down the buying process to make life easier for you and more importantly, the buyer?

The answer: eCommerce.

Just a few years ago, many manufacturing clients claimed the internet wasn’t going to impact their company.

Now, most cannot move fast enough to plunge into the world of eCommerce.

“The Heat is On” (shout out to Glen Fry, God rest his soul).

So, how do you get started?

Let’s dig in. 

Below covers two options for a manufacturer implementing eCommerce for the first time.

Related Article: A Minimum Viable Product Helps You “Get in the Game” 

Option #1) Manufacturers Implementing eCommerce

Add an eCommerce store onto your existing website

eCommerce Checklist

First, contact your web designer to start a dialog on launching an eCommerce store to your current website.

In a previous post, we discussed the struggles manufacturers face when jumping into the world of eCommerce.

Over the years, you most likely have created prototypes for your customers.

Let’s use that same concept on your website.

The assumption is that you already have a website. What platform are you using?

Have a conversation with your web designer and ask if you can easily add eCommerce to your site.

For example, if you are on WordPress, your web designer can add the WooCommerce plugin. It’s FREE!

There are many other shopping cart options that are extremely inexpensive.

Many eCommerce platforms start at ONLY $19.99 per month (EX: Shopify, BigCommerce, 3D Cart, etc…).

Take several of your finished products and add them to your website.

CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT THE B2BTAIL.COM eCOMMERCE CHECK LIST

Adding an eCommerce store to your website offers tremendous benefits including: 

  1. Customers access your business 24/7/365 = round the clock customer service & a powerful sales tool
  2. Find Soulmates (aka Ideal Customers) 
  3. Eliminate the cumbersome RFQ process
  4. No A/R = Credit card payments means you are paid before you ship! YAY!!
  5. Lower cost marketing and sales strategy
  6. Market Research (eCommerce becomes your R&D department) 
  7. Stay in your Wheelhouse 
  8. Network = Cross Network with other vendors targeting the same market
  9. International opportunities
  10. Implementing eCommerce allows you to Scale Your Proprietary Process  

Related Article: eCommerce Checklist: Manufacturing eCommerce Strategies

Option #2) Custom Manufacturers Implementing eCommerce 

Allow Customers to Customize Your Product

Implementing eCommerce

Another option for manufacturers to enter the eCommerce world, allows customers to build your products on your website.

How?

Well, what is your sales process when a new customer reaches out?

Does the new customer submit a Request for Quote (RFQ)?

If so, you then kick start the quoting process.

Of course, you were already busy when the RFQ arrived.

Now you need to set aside other top priorities to accommodate the new customer. You don’t want to make a bad first impression. Speed is key. 

You look over the drawing. Check out the parts on the BOM (Bill of Materials).

Lookup component prices and availability.

Determine the labor units. Amount of time on machinery. The number of touches. Lead time for parts.

You’ve gone through this process probably thousands of times.

In addition, do you receive RFQ’s that drift off in areas outside of your expertise? Outside of your wheelhouse?

Odds are the answer is yes. 

It really becomes a bit more challenging to determine the quote for a new customer especially for products and processes that fall outside of your expertise.

Now they are waiting.

What if you could streamline the RFQ process?

Just imagine if you could narrow the process into an automated system that was available to a new customer online, 24/7.

Where you could create a quote or estimate instantly.

Sounds like heaven, right?

First, create a starting point.

Narrow down your product line. Begin with limited options.

Focus on the most popular. The most profitable. The most simplistic.

You have a proprietary process that you perfected over the years. Well, pretty close anyway.

Can you take that process to guide a customer into your funnel?

Let’s go deeper. 

Related Article: Hey Manufacturer, What’s on Your Menu? Perhaps a Plate of eCommerce?

80/20 Rule

Does your business experience the 80/20 rule?

Most businesses do. 

For example, let’s evaluate the 20% of your products and processes that generate 80% of your sales and profits.

Your top selling products.

  1. Take the raw material, parts and components that go into that product
  2. Calculate the labor units
  3. Add in machine time that goes into each unit

Provide this information on your website.

Offer a price right away to the user. 

Well, though the system may not be perfect to start, this at least gets you in the game….immediately. 

Implementing eCommerce Gets in the Game….Immediately 

So many of my clients state, “If I can just get a customer on the phone, we can close them.”

Creating a customized instant quoting process removes the bottleneck on the front end of the relationship.

You can state that the price is based on a single unit.

This would be interesting for potential customers working on a prototype.

It opens a door to start an immediate dialog.

Allows you to show your experience and expertise.

You now have a warm lead.

This opens the door to express your passion for their project.

What are you doing at this point?

You are now engaging. Building a relationship. Showing off your expertise. 

Revealing that you are capable of solving your customer’s problem. Quickly. 

Showing that you are a person of trust. A valuable partner.

Lastly, implementing eCommerce to start the quoting process lends a tremendous competitive advantage for your company. 

Wrapping It Up

Thank you for taking the time to read this post. 

For additional info, check out these helpful posts: 

 

 

 

 

 

/by

Like It or Not, Your Website is Your 24 Hours a Day Sales Rep

Like it or not, your company website is your 24 hours a day, 7 days a week sales rep. 

With that in mind, if your website is not an absolute top priority or even worse, an afterthought, an extremely important question to ask yourself: 

WHY?

Your website serves as the face of your business as well as the ambassador of your company. 

Most likely the first contact or engagement with a new customer comes from your website. 

Especially if you are a small business. 

Regardless of your legacy, reputation, or number of years in business, new prospects who are unfamiliar with your business judge you by your web presence. 

This can be a tough pill to swallow, particularly for those in manufacturing. 

Your website actually plays the role of company sales rep out in the field, 24/7/365.

So how are your sales rep performing?

24 Hour Sales Rep 

Sales Rep

When my wife was in college, she lived across the street from a store called, “We Never Close”. 

A business that never closes certainly is convenient when you need something at 3:30 AM. 

It’s ironic how in college I could stay up until 3:30 AM, now I find myself waking up at 3:30 to start my day. 

Ah, the joys of getting old.

Anyway, a major benefit with eCommerce and a strong online presence, you never close. 

Your website serves as your 24 hours – 7 days a week – 365 days a year sales rep.

Another benefit, a website never calls in sick or takes a vacation. 

However, if your website is not an absolute top priority, you could be severely depriving yourself of new opportunities. 

How do you judge a place of business? 

For example, while searching for a hotel, restaurant, vacation spot or even a new vendor, odds are your first point of contact with a business is on their website. 

Well, let’s say your dream buyer is online conducting a search for the exact product and service that you provide. 

This buyer has a huge problem to solve with an extremely tight deadline. 

Operationally, you have everything in place to hit the ball out of the park and solve this customer’s problem. Right now. 

However, is your website ready for the task? 

Can this dream customer find your website and if they do find it, do they like what they see?

What Impression Does Your “Sales Rep” Make? 

Sales Rep

Click on your website right now. How does it look?

Do you provide valuable information to help a new customer make a buying decision?

Your website plays a critical role and goes far beyond a simple online business card. 

Your website represents YOUR COMPANY. 

When conducting eCommerce workshops, I like to use the example, “your website should allow the viewer to make a buying decision on Saturday night at midnight” (or 3:30 AM for those still able to stay up that late).

Make it a top priority to provide all the necessary information so that a potential customer doesn’t have to wait until you open on Monday morning. 

Just remember, you have ONE chance to make an outstanding 1st impression. 

In other words, you have one chance to make that great first Webpression!

Related article: You Have Only One Chance to Make an Outstanding First Webpression

Let’s put this in perspective. 

Would you allow a salesperson represent your company in a poor fashion? 

Disheveled. Outdated. Uniformed. Unenthused. Bored. Delivering partial or even wrong information.

Furthermore, unable to describe your expertise and product as well as the solutions that you provide. 

Incapable of explaining the company history, mission, processes as well as product capabilities. 

Of course not. 

Nurture your website like it’s the most important representative of your company. 

Simply because it is. 

Related Article: Top 13 Reasons Why Manufacturers Struggle with eCommerce

Is Your “Sales Rep” Found in Search Results? 

Sales rep

A website that cannot be found is the same as the sales rep who never makes a sales call. 

They are hanging at the park feeding pigeons (or some other interesting activity that fails to produce a sale). 

What is the first thing that you do when looking for a new product or service?

Most likely, you rely on your good friend Google.

Well, your potential new customers rely on Google as well.

Therefore, are you coming up on a search for your core capabilities?

In other words, are you attacking your keywords? 

Let’s go to Google right now and type your top capability in the search box. 

Are you anywhere to be found on the first page? 

If the answer is no, hopefully, you are mad. 

Do you see your competitors coming up in the search results? 

If the answer is yes, hopefully, you are now even angrier than before.  

Contact an online marketing specialist immediately. 

Stop being the best-kept secret. 

Make your website a top priority. Now! 

Be found as well as make that Great 1st Webpression! 

Treat your website as one of the most important and valuable employees on your team and give it everything you’ve got. 

Related Article: 25 Blog Topics for Manufacturers Eager to Start Blogging

Wrapping It Up 

Thanks for reading this post. 

For additional info, check out these helpful posts: 

/by

Another Incredible eCommerce Benefit: No Major Capital Expenditures

Another incredible benefit that comes with embracing eCommerce for manufacturers: No major capital expenditures. 

For the record, I am CHEAP. Extremely cheap. 

Feel free to ask my wife, friends, family or even my 140 LB Rottweiler. 

Actually, I spoil my Rottie so he might not be the best to ask. 

Anyway, with that in mind, as an avid and dedicated eCommerce evangelist, eCommerce offers your company amazing opportunities at extremely low costs and no major capital expenditures. 

As a manufacturer, odds are you currently have a website.

Most likely, even a decent website that you are proud of showing new customers (hopefully anyway). 

When you are ready to take the eCommerce plunge and finding yourself cheap like me, there are many options to get you in the eCommerce game. Pronto. 

Related Article: eCommerce Checklist: Manufacturing eCommerce Strategies

Launching an eCommerce Store: No Major Capital Expenditures

capital expenditures

Buying a domain name typically runs $9.99 per year (check out GoDaddy). 

In addition, hosting your website runs approximately $120 per year (check out Bluehost). 

Odds are you already have a website which means you are already paying for both your domain name and hosting fees. 

Therefore, no additional expenses there. 

Next, you need a shopping cart. 

 As discussed, shopping carts are incredibly inexpensive. 

Tackling eCommerce adds little to nothing to fixed expenses.

Let’s take a look at a few eCommerce shopping cart options. 

Related Article:  3 Step Approach To Scaling eCommerce for Manufacturers

WooCommerce 

Do you love the word “Free” as much as I do?

WooCommerce offers a Free plugin (Click here). 

If you currently own a WordPress website, WooCommerce serves as an extremely reasonable and affordable eCommerce option for you to consider. 

What is WooCommerce? 

WooCommerce is an open-source, completely customizable eCommerce platform for entrepreneurs worldwide. Go beyond the confines of traditional eCommerce solutions, and be limited only by your own imagination.

WooCommerce is a wildly popular eCommerce solution. Click here to find out more about WooCommerce.

Discuss with your web developer about adding a WooCommerce shopping cart to your current website. 

No Major Capital Expenditures with eCommerce Shopping Carts 

There are plenty of options when selecting an eCommerce shopping cart. 

Each option delivers powerful resources without significant capital expenditures. 

Nearly all eCommerce shopping carts start around $20 per month. 

It truly comes down to the services offered and personal preference.

Most likely, your web designer will have a particular eCommerce store that they prefer or recommend. 

Let’s meet a few players within the eCommerce shopping cart software arena. 

3Dcart

“Founded in 1997, 3dcart is a complete and robust eCommerce platform designed to help online store owners thrive in a competitive market. With hundreds of features built directly into its software, business owners can effectively open, operate and maintain a successful online store with relative ease and efficiency. Today, we are an Inc. 5000 company, a Visa PCI Certified provider and a pioneer in mobile commerce and digital marketing.”

3Dcart pricing starts at only $17.10 per month with no transaction fees as well as unlimited products. Click here to view 3Dcart pricing. 

BigCommerce

“BigCommerce’s mission is to help merchants sell more at every stage of business growth. Simply put, we are: Built for growth so merchants can realize their visions without compromise; Designed for powerful performance to enable businesses to scale seamlessly with technology they can trust; Efficient in both time and cost. We have the lowest total cost of ownership (TCO) in the industry enabling merchants to unlock profit and invest in customer acquisition.”

BigCommerce pricing starts at only $29.95 per month. Click here to view BigCommerce pricing. 
 

Shopify

“Shopify powers over 1,000,000 businesses worldwide The all-in-one commerce platform to start, run, and grow a business. Over a decade ago, we started a store to sell snowboards online. None of the eCommerce solutions at the time gave us the control we needed to be successful—so we built our own. Today, businesses of all sizes use Shopify, whether they’re selling online, in retail stores, or on the go. Making commerce better for everyone. We help people achieve independence by making it easier to start, run, and grow a business. We believe the future of commerce has more voices, not fewer, so we’re reducing the barriers to business ownership to make commerce better for everyone.”

Shopify pricing starts at $29 per month. Shopify also offers credit card processing as well as discounts on shipping. Click here to view Shopify pricing. 

Volusion 

“It all started in 1999 when our founder, Kevin Sproles, then 16 years old, started building custom websites for clients. Talking to customers, and building their dream was a passion from the beginning. Doing it all, from sales to support, to product design, Kevin knew what needed to happen to be able to help more people, and soon the first version of Volusion was born: an all-in-one tool for people to run their business. From the beginning, it was easy to use, and we were there if you needed help. Today, that’s still true. Kevin and 200+ more Volusioneers are a phone call away, 24×7 to help you reach your goals. And product innovation is at the forefront. This is only the beginning… just wait, we’ve got even more great things in store for you to come.”

Volusion pricing starts at $26 per month with no transaction fees as well as unlimited products. Click here to view Volusion pricing.

Wix

“Our powerful technology allows everyone to get online with a stunning, professional and functional web presence. Whether it’s your first time creating or you’re a long time expert, you’ll find the features and solutions you need to build a professional website with true creative freedom. Our global user base, open SDK, and unparalleled design capabilities create a unique ecosystem. Partners, developers, web designers, and other online professionals can effectively market their Apps and services to millions through Wix.”

Wix pricing starts at $23 per month which includes unlimited bandwidth and also allows accepts online payments. Click here to view Wix pricing. 

eCommerce Web Designer 

Your biggest expense will most likely be the web design services to launch your eCommerce store.

If you have a current web designer, start there. Invite a constructive conversation with your web designer about their experiences with eCommerce. 

In case you do not have an active web designer or your current web designer simply has no experience with eCommerce, it’s time to start looking around. 

Depending on your taste, your goals, and the direction you are heading, creating a new eCommerce store could cost as little as a few hundred dollars all the up to tens of thousands. 

Remember, I am cheap! 

If you are just starting out and getting your feet wet, a minimum viable product most likely is the best route. 

Find a web designer that aligns with your goals and vision. 

Be clear and concise with your budget. 

Even though you cannot expect a Lamborghini on a Chevy budget, there is no reason you cannot have an impressive and professional looking website at an extremely low cost. 

Spending tens of thousands of dollars to “test the market” most likely is not the best strategy here. 

Creating a new eCommerce store is a onetime variable expense to launch the site along with maintaining a relationship with the designer for ongoing updates and additions.  

So, where do you find a web designer to help keep our capital expenditures as low as possible? 

Related Article: A Minimum Viable Product Helps You “Get in the Game” 

Resources to Find an eCommerce Web Designer

Below includes a list of 10 helpful resources to explore when seeking an eCommerce web designer: 

  1. Chamber of Commerce – Check your local Chamber of Commerce for recommendations. 
  2. Facebook – If you are an active Facebooker – turn to your Facebook tribe and ask for recommendations for an eCommerce web designer.
  3. Fiverr – “Find the perfect Freelance Services for your business”.
  4. Freelancer – “Hire expert freelancers for any job, online”.
  5. Google – Turn to good ole Google and conduct a few local searches (For example: “Best eCommerce web designer in my area”).
  6. LinkedIn – As a LinkedIn junkie, LinkedIn offers a wealth of opportunities and connections to connect with eCommerce web designers. 
  7. Local colleges and universities – Colleges and universities are an incredible resource and great place to connect with a young and hungry web designer who might be looking for an internship or spending money. It could also turn into a nice long-term relationship. 
  8. Twitter – I follow a bunch of SEO and eCommerce experts (fellow geeks) on Twitter which is an incredible resource to connect with eCommerce web designers.
  9. Upwork – “In-demand talent on demand. Upwork expertly connects professionals and agencies to businesses seeking specialized talent.”
  10. Vendors – Check with vendors if they have any web designer suggestions. Especially vendors already utilizing eCommerce. Those ahead of the curve or already executing eCommerce should have excellent recommendations for you.

Related Article: Two Options for Custom Manufacturers Implementing eCommerce

No Major Capital Expenditures with Online Marketplaces 

In case you decide that launching an eCommerce store is premature or simply not the right direction, no fear. 

Tipping your toe in the eCommerce world via an online marketplace might be a much better fit. 

In other words, testing the waters on an existing online marketplace offers an excellent alternative. 

Online marketplaces provide a powerful resource for you to enter the eCommerce arena with minimal investment. 

Additionally, did I mention that my favorite word is FREE? 

Well, with pursuing the online marketplace route, once again, NO major capital expenditures. 

It is completely free to add products to an online marketplace. 

Typically the marketplace simply takes a commission on your products. 

For example, several online marketplaces to consider include: 

Once again, this option also offers incredible opportunities with no major capital expenditures. 

Wrapping It Up 

Thanks for reading this post. 

Hopefully, you found this helpful for your eCommerce journey. 

For additional helpful links on eCommerce, check out these links below: 

/by

Get on the Offensive to Escalate Your eCommerce Strategy

Today, we are going to discuss: “Get Offensive” to escalate your eCommerce strategy. 

Not the same type of offensive as your Uncle Charlie at a cookout. 

As well as the drunk co-worker at the annual Christmas office party (hopefully we’re not talking about you). 

Rather, this “Get Offensive” refers to you aggressively letting the world know you offer amazing products and solutions.

Remember, “This ain’t no party!” (My shout out to the Talking Heads). 

Our 3 prong approach to Scaling Your Proprietary Process with eCommerce includes:

  1. Make a great 1st Impression (aka Webpression)
  2. Dominate Search 
  3. Get Offensive

So this post addresses the 3rd step with the Scaling eCommerce Strategy at B2Btail: Get Offensive. 

Start connecting with companies that NEED your product who unfortunately at the moment simply do not know that you exist. 

We are eliminating the “Best Kept Secret Syndrome” as well as the “Job Shop Blues” with eCommerce. 

So, let’s tie everything together. 

You now have a website that makes an incredible Webpression (aka: a fantastic first impression). 

In addition, your team is also working diligently to Dominate Search. 

Well, the time has arrived to go on the offensive with these new tools. 

Keep in mind, an explosive offense hits home runs, makes plenty of baskets, puts the puck in the net, and scores lots of touchdowns.

Therefore, we need to do the same. 

Related Article: You Have Only One Chance to Make an Outstanding First Webpression

Get Offensive 

Get Offensive

Parlay your “Dominate Search” strategies to escalate your “Get Offensive” attack. 

With a narrowed focus for your business, eCommerce plays the perfect partner for you to go out and start seeking new customers. 

Above all, let’s think about any and every industry imaginable that needs your expertise and solutions. 

In particular, companies facing a serious void where your area of expertise perfectly fills the gap. 

On your quest to Scale Your Proprietary Process, landing on the radar on buyers of your products plays a critical role.

How?

Connecting, engaging as well as delivering value offers a winning hand to both parties. 

For example, a number of “Get Offensive” strategies include:

  • Send out product samples 
  • Share blog posts 
  • Email out a white paper that you created
  • Connect with buyers on LinkedIn 
  • Follow dream customers (aka “Soulmates”) on social media platforms 
  • In addition, engage with these dream clients social media posts 
  • Put out How to Videos of your products and proprietary processes 
  • Also share videos of your machinery and equipment 

As a result, the expert who commits themselves to solve problems builds trust as well as realizes huge dividends.  

Related Article: Hey Manufacturer, Let’s Scale Your Proprietary Process with eCommerce

Offensive Teammates 

Part of your Get Offensive approach includes analyzing companies ranking for your keywords. 

As you recall from our Dominate Search strategy, your keywords represent your proprietary processes and core capabilities. 

This is a fantastic opportunity to team up with these “competitors” and potentially turn them into customers. 

For example, when you conduct a search for your products, do any online companies or brick and mortar companies appear? 

Partnering with online retailers supports your cause on both fronts of our Dominate Search strategy as well as Get Offensive. 

These particular companies certainly play their part with Dominating Search.

As you go on the offensive by partnering with these companies, your business tremendously benefits by possessing real estate on Google search results as well as on these websites. 

The goal is when a buyer conducts a search for your product, they find your product regardless of which website they land on. 

This strategy supports the opportunity to Dominate Search simply by listing products on as many valuable partner sites as possible. 

Below includes a number of companies that are prime targets to team up with on your quest to Get Offensive and also Dominate Search. 

Online Marketplaces (the 800 LB Gorillas) 

First, let’s Get Offensive with the 800 LB eCommerce Gorillas:

These companies need no introduction, yet offer incredible opportunities for your business. 

Placing your products on these online marketplaces brings instant credibility as well as millions of shoppers. 

In addition, these companies potentially already bid on your keywords which provides you with another avenue for customers to find you quickly.  

Auto Retailers 

In the case that you manufacture parts or components for the auto industry, plenty of amazing options exist for you to pursue. 

Below includes a list of national auto parts retailers: 

Also, start exploring all of the thousands of car dealerships, auto repair shops, and mechanics who would greatly benefit by connecting with you. 

Electronics Suppliers 

Manufacturers of electrical parts, products or components also participate in a vast market that includes a host of companies to partner with on your Get Offensive quest. 

Prominent players in electronics include: 

Industrial Suppliers 

Do you manufacture industrial parts? 

Hopefully, you’re licking your chops at the enormous number of industrial suppliers that offer great potential as well. 

Of course, the 800 LB Gorillas here include Home Depot and Lowe’s. 

However, PLENTY of other options play on this field. 

Ocean of Opportunity 

This list simply represents just a tiny sampling of the wealth of opportunities available to you.

Most likely, your mind is swirling with ideas, industries as well as potential customers that need your solutions, NOW. 

There is truly a huge ocean completely full of options waiting for you. 

However, fish typically fail to jump out of the water on the hook or right into the net. 

It takes effort. Tremendous effort. 

Yet, it is up to you to throw the first cast. 

Your “Get Offensive” strategy with eCommerce helps land plenty of fish and you never know, you might even land a whale or two. 

Wrapping It Up 

Thank you for reading this post. 

Hopefully, you found this helpful. 

For additional helpful information as you begin your eCommerce journey, please click on the links below: 

 

 

 

/by

“GET REAL” Marketing for Manufacturers with MFG Out Loud

Guess what? There is a new Sheriff in town amongst the world of podcasts for manufacturers. MFG Out Loud!

Actually, I should say, sheriffs. Allison DeFord and Ray Ziganto are the Hosts with the Mosts!

This outstanding podcast targets those of us who simply cannot get enough info about manufacturing.

In particular, marketing for manufacturers.

The podcast that tees up courageous sales and marketing conversations for today’s manufacturers who want to GET REAL — expertise, exchange, as well as exposure in just 30 minutes a week.
 
Click here to go to MFG Out Loud.
 

You can also click on these links to listen:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mfg-outloud/id1503172461

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmN8A61qp0alVDOWqj8hlng

 

Hosted by Ray Ziganto (Manufacturing Unicorn at Linara International) and Allison DeFord (Trailblazer at Felt Marketing).

So, what do you get when you combine a Unicorn with a Trailblazer?

The chemistry between Ray and Allison is PURE GOLD.

With vast experience as well as an unapologetic passion for helping manufacturers, these kindred spirits deliver a “tell it like it is” approach.

Let’s learn a little bit more about these dynamic hosts.

Allison DeFord (aka, the MFG Out Loud Trailblazer)

Founder and Trailblazer, Felt Marketing

Allison and her award-winning team at Felt Marketing are on a mission to strengthen the heart and soul of manufacturing for generations. Helping legacy brands modernize in a digital world and profit for nearly 30 years.

She uses her platform to amplify the voice of women in manufacturing as well as breaking down stereotypes and inspiring future generations.

Fueled by Starbucks, she never settles for lukewarm and admittedly geeks out over gears, tools, wood, as well as really nice pens.

Click here to connect with Allison on LinkedIn.

Ray Ziganto (aka, the MFG Out Loud Unicorn)

MFG Outloud

Founder and President, Linara International

Dubbed the ‘Unicorn,’ Ray has worked on both sides of the manufacturing fence for more than 30-years. As a former CEO he also knows first-hand what it takes to run a successful organization. In addition, as a consultant to countless small to mid-sized manufacturers he understands the limitations and barriers to change and growth.

As the President of Linara International, he helps manufacturers as well as tech innovators compete globally by anticipating and managing the organizational change associated with technology innovation.

Where others see chaos, Ray sees opportunity.

Click here to connect with Ray on LinkedIn

Killer Episodes at MFG Out Loud

 

On episode #14, the one & only Ben Baker discusses “Leading Your Team in the New Normal” as well as avoiding silos with this fantastic episode:

Episode #14 – Leading Your Team in the New Normal

On episode #16, dear friend and the “Host with the Most” of Manufacturing Happy Hour fame, Chris Luecke shares his wisdom and insights with this fantastic interview:

Episode #16 – MFG Happy Hour: Harnessing Smart Manufacturing

 

Also, our dear friend Damon Pistulka from Exit Your Way discusses powerful results with drastically cutting lead times from 10 weeks down to 2:

Episode #18 – Show Me the Money

 

Hey, Want do you know? We also ended up on an episode:

Wrapping It Up

Thank you for reading this post.

We wish you massive success on your eCommerce journey.

For additional information, please check out these helpful articles:

 

/by

Illinois MEP Taps B2Btail for LinkedIn Workshop for Manufacturers

IMEC, the Illinois MEP (Manufacturing Extension Partnership) offers an exciting LinkedIn workshop on Thursday – Feb 18 at 11:30 CST which features Falconer Electronics and Voice Express. 

Click here to register for the LinkedIn workshop

Are you taking full advantage of the possibilities that LinkedIn has to offer you and your business?

Join us for this fun & informative LinkedIn training workshop to help capture the AMAZING OPPORTUNITIES waiting for you on LinkedIn.

  • Create an inviting LinkedIn Profile
  • Showcase your experience & expertise
  • Connect and engage with your target market
  • Explore delivering valuable & impactful content
  • Develop and nurture vibrant business relationships

IMEC Delivers Powerful Results for Illinois Manufacturers 

IMEC is a team of improvement specialists as well as technicians dedicated to providing organizations in Illinois with the tools and techniques to create sustainable competitive futures. The experienced hands-on team at IMEC works closely with its clients to plan critical business improvements in the areas of Leadership, Strategy, Customer Engagement, Operations, as well as Workforce.

With more than 50 full-time staff and partners positioned statewide, IMEC delivers the local expertise to not only plan and strategize, but to implement and evaluate the effectiveness of client improvements. In fact, IMEC assists more than 700 companies each year with successful business improvement projects.

As a result, IMEC has demonstrated a return on investment that exceeds 19:1. This is made possible as organizations become more effective and efficient – and together with IMEC – excel toward enterprise excellence.

IMEC logo

Illinois MEP National Network

As a NIST MEP approved Center, IMEC is the official representative of the MEP National Network in Illinois.

The MEP National Network provides a unique public-private partnership that delivers comprehensive, proven solutions to U.S. manufacturers, fueling growth as well as advancing U.S. manufacturing.

Wrapping It Up 

Finally, thank you for reading our blog post on Manufacturers Digitizing. 

For additional information, please check out these helpful posts below as you continue your eCommerce journey:

/by