Manufacturing Web Marketing Success Stories: How to effectively utilize your company’s website and SNS

In today’s digital world, having an optimized online presence is crucial for any manufacturing business that wants to thrive. However, many manufacturers may feel overwhelmed by all the different online marketing options available or unsure of how to get started. In this article, we will explore how other manufacturing companies have successfully used websites and social networking sites (SNS) like Facebook and Twitter to grow their business. We’ll also provide some practical tips you can implement to boost your online visibility and connect with customers in new ways.

One great example is Schmidt & Sons, a custom hardware manufacturer based in Wisconsin. A decade ago, they primarily relied on trade shows, print ads, and word of mouth to find new clients. However, as more buyers started researching products online first, Schmidt & Sons knew they needed an online strategy. They launched a new website highlighting their full product catalog with detailed photos and specs. They also added frequently asked questions, case studies of past projects, and a contact form. Within the first year, nearly 20% of their new projects came from the website. They were able to connect with customers all over the country without needing to attend every trade show.

In addition to the new website, Schmidt & Sons created social media profiles on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter. They posted pictures and updates about new products 2-3 times per week. Comments and messages from customers led to valuable feedback on how to improve existing designs or ideas for new products. Their social following quickly grew, and potential clients now regularly check Schmidt & Sons’ pages when exploring manufacturer options. Integrating their online presence helped Schmidt & Sons find 50% more projects annually compared to before without increasing their marketing costs. Their success shows how even a small manufacturer can reach vast new audiences cost-effectively online.

Another example is Fischer Manufacturing, a German company that produces precision machine parts for industries like automotive and aerospace. While they had always marketed to European customers, they recognized an opportunity to expand globally, especially in the United States and Asia. Their first step was completely overhauling their 10-year old website to make it mobile-friendly and translate content into five languages. They added an industry news blog to establish themselves as thought leaders. Fischer Manufacturing also created sharable social posts highlighting their specialized manufacturing capabilities as well as industry trends.

Within two years, their website traffic from new international markets grew by 30% year-over-year. Clients in those regions now account for 15% of annual revenue compared to just 5% previously. On Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, Fischer Manufacturing connects with thousands of engineers and procurement managers monthly. Positive customer reviews and case studies shared on the website and SNS have boosted brand trust internationally. The revamped web presence effectively introduced Fischer Manufacturing as a reputable global partner rather than just a local German company. Their digital marketing transformation paid off by tapping into huge untapped markets abroad.

So what lessons can your manufacturing business learn from these success stories? Here are some tips to drive results online:

– Optimize your company website with targeted keywords, high-quality photos/videos, informative content and a streamlined customer journey from awareness to purchase. Implement website analytics to track improvements over time.

– Prioritize creating shareable social content that positions your company as an industry expert while showing real customer value. Post consistently across major channels.

– Highlight new products/services through blogs, social posts, videos etc to spark customers’ interest and questions. Turn inquiries into qualified sales leads.

– Ask for customer testimonials, case studies and reviews to bolster trust and proof of successful implementations. Share these widely online.

– Measure results of digital activities like links clicked, form submissions, traffic sources. Adjust strategy based on data to continually optimize engagement and leads.

– Consider lead generation ads on channels like Google, Facebook if looking to acquire new prospects in target regions or industries. Track ROI closely.

– Utilize multimedia like infographics, videos in communication for increased attention and understanding online versus only text.

– Collaborate with influencers in your space by providing products for giveaways or review. Can supercharge awareness virally.

While it takes some effort, following these best practices successfully utilized by other manufacturing companies can help boost your own online reputation and discoverability. With a strong, optimized digital presence thoughtfully leveraged across your website and favored SNS platforms, you have the tools needed for ongoing lead generation and sales in today’s digital marketplace. Are you ready to start attracting more customers through your company’s online channels?