Are You That Into Me?
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"During the sales process [with potential email service providers] you will meet rainmakers, executives, subject-matter experts, high-level technical support, and creative directors and so on," says Bryan Stapp in a post at the Loud Amplifier Marketing blog. "The real question is: Who is going to be there after the contract is signed?"
Indeed. And to make sure you get the right answers about each level of your future relationship with an ESP candidate, Stapp recommends asking questions like these:
Who will manage my day-to-day relationship? Ideally, an account manager—not a salesperson—will serve as your direct contact within the organization. She should have an incentive to advocate for your needs, the power to get things done, and a clear process in line to address problems that arise.
Who will act as my executive-level contact? "There needs to be a relationship with an executive who will be assigned to you as an ultimate escalation point," Stapp notes. "If they are too busy being executives to deal with customers like you, then you need to keep looking" for an ESP, he advises.
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Comments
This post is dead-on and in line with what we've been preaching for years. Since we offer the largest selection of ESPs in the nation, we have a unique view of the various ESPs and how they can fit (or not) with a specific client's needs. We have a "How to select an ESP" whitepaper where you'll find our 20 factors to consider (with these 5 all in there). Again, great post.
Best,
Marco Marini
President & CEO
ClickMail Marketing, Inc.
This advice works in a variety of industries beyond just email. It got me thinking about all the situations where a company hasn't planned for various consumer needs.
And how consumers/customers/fans (I do a lot of work in the music business) would be reassured to know that whenever they have a question, a need, or just want to talk, there is someone there for them to go to.