Public sector organisations are often large, complex and risk-averse buyers of expensive technology systems. They have specific procurement processes, regulations and requirements that must be followed by potential suppliers. To capture business from them, you need to understand their needs, challenges and goals, and tailor your solutions accordingly. Here are some steps to help you do that:
- Research the organisation and its stakeholders. Public sector organisations rely on public funding. Consequently they have to show that they are wisely using those funds. This means that there are usually much greater needs to be transparent than a private sector business. Being more transparent means there is a lot of information publicly available about their decisionmaking processes, funding, budgets and past expenditure. Find out what their mission, vision and values are, what their current pain points and priorities are, and who the key decision-makers and influencers are. Use public sources of information, such as their website, annual reports, press releases, social media and industry publications, board meeting agendas and minutes, published budgets, as well as your own network of contacts and referrals.
- Build relationships and trust. Establish rapport with the relevant stakeholders, such as the procurement officers, project managers, technical experts and end-users. Communicate regularly and consistently, provide value-added information and insights, demonstrate your expertise and credibility, and show genuine interest in their needs and goals. Avoid being too pushy or salesy, and respect their time and preferences.
- Identify and qualify opportunities. Look for signs of demand or interest in your technology systems, such as requests for information (RFIs), requests for proposals (RFPs), invitations to tender (ITTs), or expressions of interest (EOIs). Evaluate the fit between your solutions and their requirements, the size and scope of the project, the budget and timeline, the competition and the decision criteria. Focus on the most promising and profitable opportunities, and avoid wasting time on low-probability or low-value ones.
- Develop and present your proposal. Craft a compelling and customised proposal that addresses their specific needs, challenges and goals, and showcases your unique value proposition, differentiators and benefits. Use clear and concise language, evidence-based arguments, relevant case studies and testimonials, and attractive visuals. Follow their format and guidelines, answer their questions and objections, and highlight your compliance with their regulations and standards.
- Negotiate and close the deal. Prepare for the negotiation process by setting your objectives, priorities and limits, anticipating their concerns and counteroffers, and identifying areas of mutual interest and value. Use effective negotiation techniques, such as asking open-ended questions, listening actively, acknowledging emotions, proposing options and alternatives, making concessions strategically, and building rapport. Aim for a win-win outcome that satisfies both parties’ interests and expectations.
