Marketing

Happy New Year!

I did a search on "marketing" not a single hit on the first page. I did the search for that reason alone to see if it would be upfront. Question for you guys that are experienced and successful owning a truck or trucks, why isn't marketing ever brought up and do you guys market yourselves beyond cold calling? I am intrigued by the complaints of struggling O/O's but I never see anything about marketing. Is marketing not a useful tactic in the industry with being the employer and employee? What methods do you use (website, packets, etc...)? I appreciate the feedback and good luck to all of you this year.

 

it has always been that case, but I really wonder if one was to treat this business like every business as far as getting business to be successful. I understand the other dynamics, such as taxes, regulations, etc... make this industry a different monster in itself. Doctors market even though everyone needs one.

 

I understand completely, I just wonder what if someone just did it. I mean just made it a point to get their name out there. it would be an interesting case study for the industry. I appreciate the replies.

 

I appreciate the participation as I am a thinker to a fault sometimes. I see a lot struggles and just wonder if thinking outside of the box not just for me but everyone would benefit the carrier. In saying that it does get very complex and for a small outfit I can see it being a very daunting undertaking. I am also a believer in these things are what make successful businesses that are the backbone of our country. Marlin46 I like your plan because you are putting yourself out there and a da will come where the calls you get and can't take now will be the deciding factor in one more truck and then another until you reach goals as a business owner if you have not already.
I love the challenges this industry brings and think success can be had for the innovators and forward thinkers. I did my final paper to get my MBA on the trucking industry and was allowed to speak to shippers as if I were the company and it was eye opening. I spoke to 10 shippers and the consensus was "we don't know who anyone is because the only companies that make themselves available are brokers and salesman from large carriers". I love this conversation as it really moves the mouse upstairs.

 

what factors do you think causes o/o's to not think on a bigger scale regardless of size of there outfit? I have a few reasons why just want to hear your take.