Q4 is right around the corner and if you’re like most of us this year, you’re welcoming 2021 with open arms. This year has been unlike any other. As we all navigate the end of this year, we’re turning to new ways to reach customers, drive demand, and grow business. Among the pressure, of course, is determining the most effective use of budget especially if you had to cancel any large-scale events. Whether you’re facing a “use it or lose it” scenario or trying to pivot and strategically reallocate spending amid the new normal, NOW is the time to prepare your business for the end of year rush.
Here are 5 creative ways to get the most bang from your end-of-year buck:
Engage Partners Through Your Channel Executives
Without in-person events and valuable networking opportunities, channel executives are losing the opportunities they typically rely on to engage Partners. Social media and online engagement are excellent ways to ensure Partners have multiple opportunities to receive and interact with the important information you provide. By investing in a Social Media Amplification Program (SMAP), Channel executives can effectively target and communicate with Partners, build stronger relationships, and grow their influence without having to get on an airplane.
Sponsor a “Through” Channel Demand Generation Engagement.
Help Partners put their best foot forward and tackle 2021 by providing managed marketing services (MMS) or marketing concierge support. Select a group of high-potential Partners, and we’ll work with them individually to ensure they’re prepared for the new year. These programs are offered at different levels based on your Partner’s current social media expertise and are designed to drive social skills and marketing efforts focused on your specific solutions.
Rethink Your Event Strategy.
Who knows when we’ll see the return of live, in-person events. On the bright side, budget that was formerly spent on travel and event costs can now be used in creative, pandemic-friendly new ways. Consider virtual training sessions and workshops for your sales and marketing teams, your Channel Partners, or both. From customized guest speaking engagements to demand generation workshops and Partner-facing team training, you can build relationships and reduce time-to-market through effective online Partner and Customer education.
Assess Your “To” Partner Communications.
Right now is a great time to look under the hood and assess your current “To” Partner communication strategy. There’s never been a “one size fits all” communication strategy when it comes to reaching Channel Partners. The reality is, Partners are fatigued just like everyone else right now and are constantly being bombarded with irrelevant information. Now more than ever, it’s important to provide highly-relevant assets and communicate to Partners based on THEIR preferences and specialization.
Prioritize Video.
Video has become an incredibly effective tool for reaching highly distracted and digitally-fatigued decision makers. The best part? It’s inexpensive! By leveraging personalized video, Partners can showcase solutions and business outcomes in a compelling and easy-to-digest way. You can also leverage video to educate Partners about the latest digital and social selling best practices. It’s a WIN WIN!
Interested in learning more about how to prepare your business and Partners for success in the new year? We’re here to help!