Whether you are a new manufacturer finding your feet or an experienced one with years under your belt, you likely want to keep your existing client base, while expanding your reach.
Providing a high-quality product is key as a supplier, but is it enough? With the industry rapidly growing in competition, you need to be doing more to keep your clients happy and put yourself above the competition.
Here are some top tips to help your business become a leading manufacturer and the supplier at the top of everyone’s list.
Manage your responses with clients
Make sure you show your clients, and potential clients that you are committed, and they are valued. The simplest way to do this is to ensure communication stays open and frequent. If you ever get a query from a customer or potential customer, you need to ensure your response times are quick and valuable. If you are too slow to respond, there is a high chance that they will head to a competitor instead, so it is important to stay on top of your communications, by making sure they are organized, and your response time is less than 24 hours. If you do not have an answer, then you can acknowledge the contact and use the appropriate signposting.
Invest in up to date equipment and technology
While your current equipment might be comfortable to use and is known by everyone on site, you must take new chances and invest in up-to-date equipment and technology. While the manufacturing industry is ripe with competition, likely, one of the key areas clients will be looking for in their suppliers is innovation and technology.
Not only will they look for up-to-date equipment, but also equipment that is used by highly skilled staff, and is maintained to a high standard. You must be using the correct equipment for the work you are completing, make sure your staff knows the machinery like the back of their hand, inspect it regularly, replace any parts when needed, keep it clean and use the correct fuels and lubricants for any machines.
Use digital marketing strategies
What most people are resonating with now is a connection. Companies who are transparent, who are putting themselves out there, showing that there are humans behind the business and that they are a supplier with authority are more successful. The more they see of you online, your services, your solutions, what they can learn from you, and how you serve the community, can put you above your competition in more ways than one. Digital marketing is an excellent way to put your business in front of new clients, as it will increase your visibility on a variety of platforms and keep you well connected with a network of distributors, wholesalers, and clients. It will also encourage interaction, build a bigger audience and increase lead generations.
While creating a good, high-quality product is important in becoming a good manufacturer, there are many other factors you must consider to become a leader and put yourself above your competition.