Selling to Millennials

The marine industry, like many others, is witnessing a significant shift in its customer base. Millennials, who now constitute a large portion of the workforce, are becoming the primary decision-makers in B2B purchasing. Understanding how to sell to this demographic is crucial for businesses looking to thrive in today’s market.

We are a marketing, advertising, and branding firm for the maritime industry. Our services are designed to help mission-driven businesses clarify positioning, expand reach, and increase revenues. Request a Free Strategy Call or just shoot me an email at mcharette@boatsquarterly.com 

The 3 Rules for Effectively Selling to Millennials

1. Embrace the Millennial Mindset

• Millennials desire control over their buying journey. They prefer to conduct their research and engage with salespeople on their terms. This shift requires a fundamental change in the sales approach, moving from a seller-driven process to a buyer-driven one.
• “The buyer wants to be in control of their journey. Today’s salesperson needs to be flexible.”

2. Make Content Accessible and Relevant

• Millennials have little tolerance for traditional B2B sales tactics like gated content. They seek information that is readily available and free from friction.
• Sales and marketing strategies should focus on providing value through content that is easily accessible. This approach builds trust and positions the seller as a consultative partner rather than just a vendor.
• “Make your content accessible to your buyer – (non-gated). Create relevant content that is frictionless.”

3. Guide the Buyer Experience

• Millennials appreciate guidance through their buying journey. This can be achieved by creating a clear and logical sequence of information and interactions, often referred to as the “Yellow Brick Road.”
• The goal is to become a trusted advisor, offering insights and solutions tailored to the buyer’s needs and stage in the buying process.
• “Enable the buyer experience to be guided step-by-step.”

Application in the Marine Industry

In the marine industry, where products and services can be complex and highly technical, these rules are particularly pertinent. Sales teams should focus on understanding the unique needs and behaviors of millennial buyers, adapting their strategies accordingly.

Implementing the Rules

• Understand the Millennial Buyer: Conduct market research to understand the preferences, challenges, and goals of millennial buyers in the marine industry.
• Develop Engaging and Accessible Content: Create informative blogs, videos, and guides that address common questions and challenges faced by these buyers. Ensure this content is easily accessible on your website and social media platforms.
• Consultative Selling Approach: Train your sales team to adopt a consultative approach, focusing on understanding the buyer’s needs and offering solutions that align with their goals.

Effectively selling to millennials requires a shift in mindset and approach. By understanding their unique preferences, making content accessible, and guiding them through the buying process, businesses in the marine industry can build lasting relationships with this vital demographic. Remember, the key is flexibility, relevance, and guidance.

Request a Free Strategy Call

Merrill Charette 

MIDA.PRO – Marine Industry Digital Agency – Web dev / Marketing

Podcast – SHIPSHAPE INTERNATIONAL OCEAN INSIGHT