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Effective Ways to Select A List Broker

If you've used a list broker before you'll be familiar with how we can help you. However, if you’re new to list rental you will be interested in our article What is a list broker?

If you’re using a list broker for the first time, or you're looking for an alternative source, there are a few recommendations we would make to help you get the best results.

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Recommendations and referrals

This one is easier for people who have been in marketing circles for a while - if you have built your network you can guarantee someone will be able to recommend a resource they have used previously. Better still you will be able to ask them about their experiences and the results generated.

So what if you don’t have a network to ask, or your network comes up empty?

Starting your search

Search engines are usually our first port of call when looking for a new service provider. However the results can be overwhelming.

‘List broker’, or ‘mailing list provider’ will yield thousands of results - so where do you begin?

What are you looking for?

Getting specific is important. Data is typically split between consumer and business lists, and you will find specialists for each area.

In addition consider your vertical. If you're selling pharmaceutical products search for a list broker who specifically supplies pharmaceutical mailing lists - specialism is important, a broker who has used several lists in the same vertical should be able to advise you on the effectiveness of those lists.

 

Download -  B2B Target Audience Worksheet

 

Local or global?

Data is worldwide and the best source of supply is not always local. The most important things to remember are:

  • Can the list broker advise on data protection and permissions by country & state?
  • Are they easy to reach by telephone or email during normal business hours?
  • Can you overcome any language barriers and customs?

As we have discussed previously, communication is key to success, so these last two points are crucial.

Short list your options

Reduce your list to the best prospects, simply using the bullet points above and then dig a little deeper.

Research the business, look at their website in detail. Go beyond the homepage and get into the information, do they sound like a good fit? Do they care about customer service? Do they show testimonials from other satisfied customers?

Pick up the phone

It’s easy to shy away from starting a conversation with a total stranger, but remember you’re bringing business to them, they will want to talk to you! More can be achieved in a 5 minute phone call than 2 weeks of email exchange.

Within minutes you will know if the company is dedicated to great customer service - do they answer the phone promptly? Are they enthusiastic about what you do and what you want to achieve? Do they willingly share their knowledge and experience?

You’ll know if you’re comfortable with them, if you can talk to them in plain English - remember you don’t want to be bamboozled later with fast sales speak and jargon!

These are a critical elements to a successful ongoing relationship so it’s worth the time investment.

Try before you buy

When you're ready to award your first job simply ask 2 or 3 of your short list to provide counts. There should be no cost or obligation to use their services at this stage and it will give you a good idea on the quality and availability of the lists they can provide. You will also see the speed of their response - this is so important when you’re working to timescales, don’t leave it until you have a looming deadline to discover your list broker is tardy!

Still unsure?

Testimonials are great, they really help narrow the shortlist. A list broker who has great relationships with their clients will have no difficulty in putting you in touch with them. Ask for references - could you have a 5 minute chat with a previous customer (or 2)? If they agree, plan your call carefully - you don’t want to take lots of their time, but you do need answers. Good questions are based on customer service levels and of course response rates!

Set the benchmark

We pride ourselves on exceptional customer service. Why not give us a try? Simply call me today on +1 860-210-8088 or email me directly dpeterson@worldinnovators.com.