We’ve covered the bidding process before – and how it can be a resource-heavy process – but one thing we also say is that marketing your presence on Digital Outcomes and Specialists the right way can put you in a good position for when buyers are evaluating your responses.
Here’s what you can do to help your marketing strategy when it comes to DOS…
Engage on social
Social media can be a great way to connect with your potential buyers, without the big costs. We suggest using channels like Twitter and LinkedIn, as you can start following, communicating and, importantly, engaging with the right members of staff directly.
It also gives you some indication on what your potential buyers, and even competitors, are sharing too. This way you can adjust your social media strategy to make sure you’re posting what people want to see.
You’re not going to get much out of just stating you’re on the Digital Outcomes and Specialists framework, using these channels is more about building up your awareness and showing you know what you’re talking about. Which brings us on to our next point…
Make some great content
If you’ve got the resources to do it, start writing some content about the services you provide through DOS. It’s a great way to show that you know your stuff, and places you in a greater position of trust – which is essential for building relationships with public sector buyers. It also goes hand-in-hand with using social media and avoids you just resharing other people’s content!
Attend events
It seems pretty obvious, but you need to get networking! And attending events are the best way to do this. There are plenty of opportunities throughout the year to engage with members of the public sector and from lots of different organisations in government. Events like techUK’s Smarter State Conference or more sector specific events are a great way to meet those who may eventually be looking to purchase your solutions.
At the end of the day, if a buyer knows your company already, and what you do, it puts you in good stead for when they’re evaluating your bid. It creates more understanding for your buyer about the services you offer – and hopefully means your responses are backed up too!
Sponsor events too
Don’t just attend them, try sponsoring good events too. Putting your name on a successful event is a great way to get your name out there in front of buyers in the public sector. But don’t just put your name to anything, try getting involved with conferences and talks that are relevant to what you offer and build an association to that industry within the public sector.
They can be a great way to get your name out there and get in front of your target audience – but as we said, make sure you do your research first!
There are many ways to start marketing after getting on to DOS, with most ways aimed at building your relationships and trust with potential public sector buyers. Alongside getting on to the framework, having a good public sector marketing strategy is essential!
