Data Buying Top Tips
It’s the lifeblood of your sales process, marketing application and eventual closed business total – yes…we’re talking about Data!
If you don’t have the right data it can ruin even the best planned campaign but all too often purchasing data is a rushed last minute affair. GCL Direct has put together their top tips on buying the perfect dataset:
Clearly define your Data Requirements - Before buying a database, it is important to understand what requirements the data needs to satisfy and if those requirements are realistic?
Work backwards from what requirements the data needs to fulfil, for example you’re ideal decision maker may be the IT Director, however, if you are targeting companies with under 100 employees will there even be an IT Director?
Know your Source! - There are so many data companies out there that someone will always offer you a cheaper price however as with anything in life buying cheap might mean buying twice. Always ask how a data company collects their data and if the count sounds too good to be true ask for references from previous customers.
Know Your Options - If the data available out there on the open market doesn't match your requirements then consider other services like building and cleansing existing data. These may seem like expensive options, however, often it can be the only way to target specific decision makers directly.
Learn What Works for You - Always ensure the volume, pricing and delivery timing of the data is right for you. The larger the order the more likely you are to get flexibility on data sourcing and delivery. Don’t be afraid to ask for exactly what you want.
Testing 1- 2- 3
Most importantly - Test it! Always get a sample of at least 10 records to test. Simple ways to test the data are to run a quick search in LinkedIn to confirm the contacts exists or confirm the email addresses via a mail tester. But the acid test is always to call the contacts and confirm the details in person!
