Business development is crucial to the long term prosperity of a new temp agency, but with it becoming increasingly difficult to get through to the correct person with 'cold' communications - what can you do to overcome this, and what other options are there to attract new business and build a strong client list?
1. Branding - Be clear, know your niche and specialist area. First things first, establishing a clear company brand and professional image - including logo, website, stationary etc.
2. Content Marketing - if skills and resources allow, a website blog is a great way to attract potential clients. Useful, engaging and industry specific content gives people a reason to find and be interested in you, makes you stand out from competitors and improves your search ranking (SEO).
3. LinkedIn - with over 830 million members worldwide it is reported; accessible prospects, quality potential referrals and the recommendations feature, LinkedIn has to be a priority when building a client portfolio.
A strategic approach monitoring internal movement and retention patterns within a company offers valuable insights, while being active on the platform - either creating your own groups or contributing to related professional groups - boosts your presence further. Showcase your business ensuring details are accurate on your company page, including your website, specialties and a full description of what service you offer.
4. Networking - isn't about short-term gains, but about getting out to events and meet-up's, and forming meaningful connections. The easier you are to talk to, the more comfortable people will feel and the more open to a relationship they may be.
It is also easier to build a rapport by asking open-ended questions. A specific business niche helps to make more deep-seated connections while networking, rather than a more generic recruitment approach and follow up, ideally within 48 hours of meeting the person.
5. Cold Calling - remains a popular business development method and can be highly effective when the correct approach is used.
Groundwork and research is key (and sometimes a thick skin required!) but prepare by sending a warm-up email or by engaging with a potential customer through social media, by commenting on or sharing a post.
Have belief when you embark on the call - as positivity can be projected - and remember you are taking an opportunity to present information to individuals who otherwise would not have access to it, you are providing a solution.
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