Go-To-Market Strategy

What is a go-to-market strategy?

A go-to-market (GTM) strategy is a comprehensive plan that outlines how an organization will bring its products or services to market, attract customers, and achieve its growth goals. It’s a crucial and strategic roadmap that guides a company in reaching its target audience and sustaining growth in a competitive market landscape.

Common go-to-market models include:

• Direct sales: In this model, a company sells its products or services directly to customers without intermediaries.
• Channel sales: Channel sales involve partnering with intermediaries, such as distributors, resellers, or service-based partners, to reach a broader audience.
• Inside sales: This model relies on sales teams that interact with customers remotely, typically through phone calls, emails, or web conferencing.
• E-commerce: These businesses primarily operate through digital channels, selling products or services online. They typically utilize websites, online marketplaces, and digital marketing to attract customers.
• Franchise: Finally, in some industries, franchising allows individuals or entities (franchisees) to operate outlets of a business under its established brand and business model.

What does a go-to-market strategy look like in practice? Imagine a sustainable skincare company that wants to reach a global audience through a network of resellers. It would first identify eco-conscious retailers that align with its values and mission. They may set up collaborative marketing campaigns, emphasizing the environmental benefits of their products.

Then, by providing comprehensive training on sustainable product features and benefits, the company ensures that partner retailers can convey the eco-advantages to customers effectively. Relevant incentive programs further motivate retailers to champion the company’s sustainability message. This approach enables the company to leverage a network of like-minded retailers, expanding its global reach while advancing the cause of sustainability.

If you’re getting started with your go-to-market strategy, you’ll typically follow a few steps:

• Start by understanding your target market, including customer needs, preferences, pain points, and competitive landscape. Research helps in identifying opportunities and potential challenges.
• Ensure your product or service aligns with market demands. Develop features and offerings that address customer needs and differentiate you from competitors.
• Craft a compelling value proposition and messaging that resonates with your target audience. Clearly communicate what sets your offering apart.
• Determine a pricing strategy that considers market conditions, competitors’ pricing, and your cost structure. Ensure your pricing aligns with your value proposition.
• Develop a detailed plan for how you will promote your product or service. This includes choosing marketing channels, creating marketing materials, and defining your sales approach.
• If you’re using a channel sales model, establish relationships with partners, provide necessary training and resources, and define how you’ll collaborate with them.
• Execute your GTM plan by launching your product or service to the market. Ensure all teams and partners are aligned and equipped to deliver on the plan.
• Continuously monitor the performance of your GTM strategy. Collect data on sales, customer feedback, and market dynamics. Use this information to refine and optimize your approach over time.
• As your business grows, consider expanding your reach, entering new markets, or diversifying your product offerings. Adapt your GTM strategy to support these growth initiatives.

A comprehensive go-to-market strategy enables your company to define its growth goals and how you’ll get there.

Related content:

Indirect Channel | Direct Channel | Go-To-Market | Go-To-Market Portal