Well, here’s some evidence to the contrary. A recently-launched app aimed at contractors is a powerful business intelligence tool in a web-based dashboard that pushes the most relevant and timely project data to contractors’ computers and mobile devices. The app, called Dodge BidPro, has recently been enhanced to help contractors move through the project selection and bidding process faster than ever before by drawing from an expansive network of local reporters and the largest database of private and public construction information. If there’s one thing contractors like, it’s new business. No doubt, they’ll love this app.
What’s more, recent research found that contractors are increasingly using the web for product information. Three in four contractors prefer industry websites as a better source of building product information over print magazines. And, it is only natural that end users would opt to do product research on their computer or device first, prior to taking the time to travel to a distributor for advice on the best brands and choices.
So how does a distributor stay relevant in an era where the end user makes the decision on how they want to receive information and utilize technology to make them smart before even purchasing?
Simple. Distributors need to think like marketers. They need to understand that in order to stay relevant to contractors, they need to provide them either added value in the form of information or thought-leadership that they can’t get anywhere else. So the value becomes the expertise they provide – but only if you can get them in the door.
And knowing that contractors are doing their preliminary research online, distributors need to have a strong online presence. If the decision making is happening before they even walk through the doors of the distributor, then contractors need to be reached when they are considering products, not when they are ready to buy. Search engine optimization, paid search as well as mobile apps and access to the inventory through an online portal are just some of the ways to reach contractors where—and when--they are considering a product.
Contact us today and we can help you build a strong marketing presence to reach contractors.
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