Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

Does anyone have any experience of marketing to local government - any tips or best practices?

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Sam Simon

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The DipLady . . .
Pam`s Pantry . . .
www.pamspantry.net

Vote for me in the StartupNation Home Based 100

Trying to sell Janitorial Services.   I find that simply registering and responding to bids is not a smart way to win business.  It`s really hit and miss.  I want to find a way of marketing to them so I have a better chance of winning the bid.  But it`s difficult because they seem to dislike spending time with vendors.  So looking for any people with tips / experience.

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Sam Simon

After a bit of hunting I found a blog that goes some way to helping me

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Sam Simon

I have done work for the government under contracts, how is your company structured, where are you located, what agency do you want local, state or fed and your company employee make up.

Hi all,
Just my thoughts on the matter.  I used to run a parts center and sold to several government agencies.  First, as already mentioned earlier, most governmental agencies have a "vendors list."  You have to meet certain requirements to get on the list.  Also, most buyers and purchasing agents are restricted to doing business only with vendors on the list. 

But, once your on the list, try and find out who will actually be making the decision on hiring your company.  Then make an appointment with that person.  Don`t cold call because most of the decision makers are busy and won`t set time aside if you just walk in to their office.  Making an appointment also shows respect for the person you are to meet.

Further, do some research on the agency and its needs.  Make sure your sales pitch is geared towards meeting their needs.



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Goals are attainable at any age. It just seems to take longer the older we get. - S. Patrick Culshaw

I would just like to add a little something to this discussion.  I was told that if you wish to sell your product/services to the government agency then you have to go online (depending what state you live in) and get into their training program, take a number of small tests and then they will contact you whether or not you meet their criteria. 

Does this sound familiar to anyone?   I would like to know more if anyone is willing to share from their experience.

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Ljiljana Losich
Everlasting Promotions, Inc., President
Phone: (630) 541-8066
Fax: (630) 541-8067
Email: llosich@everlastingpromotionsinc.com
Web: www.everlastingpromotionsinc.com

Also in some cases are you a minority owned (MBE or WMBE) or vet owned business , if you are from Iowa Targeted Small Business, Feds 8a , Hubzone or Vet just some examples