You’ve likely heard the saying, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” In 2023’s B2B digital landscape, that’s never been truer. Your clients are now completing up to 90% of the buying cycle before ever reaching out to you or your team. This means you need a really strong first impression with your value proposition and differentiators. These two items are quickly becoming a deal maker or a deal breaker.
Let’s begin with your value proposition. This is not a tagline or a marketing slogan, it is a clear statement on how your product or service solves a problem, the benefits of having done so, and why it is a better solution to what is currently in the market today. For example, Rankin PR writes feature articles for industrial trade publications and gets those published 30-50 times per year generating awareness, credibility, and sales leads for our clients. Our proven process allows us to guarantee results which is far from the norm when it comes to public relations.
In order to formulate an effective value proposition, you must first identify the differentiators that make you stand out as a unique brand. Cultivating these 6 common value proposition differentiators will help build a value proposition that helps fill your sales pipeline.
Product differentiation: Your offerings are unique.
First, determine all the ways your products are unique. You can stand out through a unique combination of features, performance, and by meeting stringent criteria for your offerings. Do you offer CAD services with 3D scanning and reverse engineering? Or do your CAD models include full assemblies that are accurate to ±.002” over any X, Y, & Z axis? Whatever it is, you need to begin by identifying the differentiators and then pinpoint how those differences benefit your target audience.
Effective product differentiation requires constant innovation because your competitors may try and copy what you are doing. That’s fine, your job is to continuously strive to offer something that is truly unique.
Service differentiation: Your customer engagement is top-notch.
The customer journey doesn’t end with the purchase. It continues through follow-ups and post-purchase services. Service differentiation encompasses the full spectrum of customer engagement — from delivery and support to training and installation. In the B2B business, service differentiation can create lasting bonds. Think of your service as an extension of your value proposition; consistent, exceptional service can transform a one-time buyer into a longtime loyal partner.
Distribution differentiation: Your reach is expansive.
Offering easier access, expertise, and enhanced customer service can be a significant differentiator. Manufacturers often rely on distribution partners to reach diverse markets. The key is collaboration, reliability, and a symbiotic relationship where shared goals and support lead to distinctive offerings that are hard to replicate.
Relationship differentiation: Your staff makes an impact.
The employees who interact with your customers become your living brand. Their competence, courtesy, and responsiveness are elements of relationship differentiation. They bridge the gap between your product and the customer. Building these relationships takes time, but their impact can be profound. Customers value the personal touch, and these emotional bonds can cement their loyalty.
Image differentiation: Your reputation resonates.
Image differentiation often emerges from other avenues, like top-notch service or superior quality. It’s the cumulative effect of symbols, communication, and atmosphere that defines your reputation. It’s an intangible asset that deters newcomers. Establishing a strong image requires consistent messaging, great and consistent PR, and communication that resonates with your target audience.
Price differentiation: Your cost is competitive.
Competitive pricing isn’t just about offering lower costs; it’s recognizing that each customer has a varying willingness to pay. Price differentiation enables you to cater to different segments with tailored offerings at different price points. An effective pricing strategy could be about undercutting competition, sure. But it’s also about capturing the total lifetime spend and the value customers place on your product beyond its cost.
In your pursuit of differentiation, a successful strategy ticks at least one of these boxes: it’s valuable, important, distinctive, superior, emotional, communicative, preemptive, affordable, or profitable. Each avenue offers a unique journey to distinguish your B2B business, enabling you to carve a space in the competitive landscape while resonating with your target audience.
Now that you’ve determined your value proposition differentiation, it’s time to convey it.
If you’re finding it hard to determine how to communicate your value proposition and differentiators to your target audience, a respected B2B PR agency, like Rankin PR, can help. Schedule a booking with the experts today!