How to find potential buyers and importers in the USA? from Siomex's blog

Identifying customers and importers in the USA may seem like a daunting task if not done correctly, but it’s really a rather simple task.

This means that it is always critical to make sure that you find good customers especially if you are new to international business or maybe venturing into it. Here it is broken down for you with the hope that you can start your search and get meaningful matches.

1. Understand Your Product and Its Need

It is highly unworthy reaching for consumers before knowing everything that can be known about the product. Ask yourself:

●     What can I emphasize about my product?

●     For what reason would a buyer in the USA have an interest in it?

●     Is each of these required for consumption in the US?

For instance if you are selling organic tea, find out the level of organic eats and drinks consumption in the USA. Think about tendencies, customer needs and what competitive products have done.

You can deduce this from the above breakdown because this basic groundwork will help you target the right buyers Dataand avoid wasting time.

2. Trade Data & Information Avatar

A good way to search for buyers is the specific website which provides accurate import-export data is Siomex. Such platforms provide trade information that gives information on precisely who is importing what, from where.

You can find prospective US buyers who are already in the market importing similar products to your offered products.

For example, in case if you are exporting wooden furniture. As you wish to know companies in the USA that have imported wooden furniture from other countries in the recent past, Siomex can assist you on this aspect. For this reason, these businesses should preferably be interested in your offerings as well.

3. Search Online Marketplaces

What’s even better is that the internet is your best friend when it comes to finding buyers. Whether targeting consumers or other businesses, amazon business, eBay or simple business directories, such as Alibaba or Siomex are great starting places. A good number of companies in the USA rely on these websites for supplying their products.

For instance, if you are selling handmade candles you may be interested in finding stores based in the US but that sell home decor products from these platforms. Contact them through email and describe them your product and why their business will benefit from using it.

4. Utilize Social Media and Business Connection

LinkedIn is a very useful site helping to search for potential buyers. I also found that on LinkedIn, you can look for the companies based on the country and industry type, such as importers exporters wholesalers or distributors in the USA.

Firstly, you can search and link up with people in your line of business, as well as join groups about your company. For instance, if you are exporting spices, opt for group and communities where restaurant suppliers, food distributors among others are frequenting. The final essential step is to advance from a mere connection to a message to introduce the product in question.

5. Participate in booths, fairs, conventions, tradeshows, conferences and any other events both online and offline.

Buyer meetings are easier, especially during trade shows Since you get a chance to talk to buyers personally. Currently, there are trade fairs and exhibitions for almost any product category in the USA. If travelling cannot happen, try and search for virtual events where you can take your product online.

For instance, if you import fabric then visit textile expos or other virtual fashion events that US buyers are seeking suppliers from. Make sure you have your mantra ready, as well as trial/ photo images of product/service you wish to offer.

6. Enter into a contractual relationship with Local Agents or Distributors

If you do not have a clue about some segment of the US market, then it is recommended to resort to local agents or distributors. They know the right people and have been in the business long enough to ensure that you get buyers as fast as possible.

For example, if you are a manufacturer of Organic honey, you should locate a distributor in the USA who deals with natural foods. They can assist you to get your product to the stores or sell it directly to potential customers.

7. Contact Trade Associations

The USA has several trade associations for most industries whereby you can get leading buyers in those industries. Some of these organizations have directories or resources which contains list of firms who are interested in such products.

For example, if your export is electronics, then contact electronics trade associations in USA. They can give you contacts or even suggest you buyers in search of suppliers similar to you.

8. Use Free Samples in Order to Gain Clients’ Trust

At some point, the buyers may lack the confidence to associate with independent experts. It is also possible to follow the method of providing a free sample or make a trial order which is also rather effective will help to earn people’s trust.

For instance if you are exporting handmade soaps, you should occasionally make a sample box and share it with prospective buyers. Add a brief message stating on what your product will help them and why they will find it useful. Besides, it not only demonstrates your product to your partner company’s associates but also tells them that you are committed to the partnership.

9. Relationships Are What This Leadership Model is About

Selling is not only about looking for the buyers to make the sales but instead it is looking for customers to build and sustain relationships with. Always show some respect, some formality and be quick on the respond when contacting or conversing with potential buyers.

For instance if a buyer contacts you seeking information about your product then ensure that you give them all the information they need immediately. Remind your partner politely after making a proposal but don’t impose.

10. Monitor Competitors

Some of the best lessons you can learn about finding buyers are from your competitors. Look at their destinations of exports, who their primary clients are. This information may provide you with cues as to which particular firms or geographic area may prove to be interested in your products.

Using sources such as Siomex you can get information about the activity of your competitors in terms of trade. If youdetect that a competitor is exporting to the USA the question arises to identify who is buying from the competitor and propose an offer.

Why Siomex is Your Best Ally

Purchasing and sale of food products are made easy by Siomex. You don’t have to waste several weeks searching for leads; they provide access to third-party trade credentials. Some of the data contain importer’s name and address, type of product imported.

For instance, if you want a directory of firms in the US which are already importing leather bags with leather products, Siomex can give it to you. This saves you time and effort, allowing you to instead concentrate on the development of your company.

Final Thoughts

When searching for buyers, it might be rather overwhelming if the country in consideration is as large as the USA, but really if you take it point by point the process becomes easy. Always refer to the Siomex use tools, experience great relations or connections, and do not shy away from contacting various channels such as the trade show, online platform, and social media. All you need is time and perseverance and you will find solid customers and expand your export business.

FAQ

1. In the USA how can I be able to find the prospective customers in the market?

The potential buyers can be identified with the help of Siomex which gives import-export data. You can also go online and search for Amazon Business or select group and association for the USA or attend trade shows or select local agents and distributors in the USA region.

2. Before going to the buyers what information should I have?

To make the right communications with the buyers, you should have the clear vision about the product such as what is the product? what makes it different from others? how much it would cost? what are the advantages of using this product? Finally, do the market analysis for your product specifically targeting the US market ensuring that you come ready with some samples, price quotes, and shipping methods to address customers when they ask.

3. Can one actually identify buyers through the use of tools such as the Siomex?

Sure, there are such tools as Siomex that are incredibly reliable for the most intense analytical work. They have reliable trade data to help you to quickly pinpoint companies that are already importing similar products to yours. These insights pay off and give a small list of everything you would want to avoid wasting time on while giving you a list of prospects to continue marketing to.

4. Should I give samples to the potential clients?

One of the best strategies of approaching the customers is by offering small samples which go a long way in creating trust from the side of potential buyers in the market especially when you have not been in the market before. It helps them assess your quality standard of a product, and the outcome might improve the business relationship between you two.

5. Is it a must to invest on the trade shows for you to be able to find the buyers in the USA?

Although going to trade shows is valuable, it is not the only way to get buyers. Where you are unable to meet in person there are other forms like virtual trade fairs and online platforms and data tools such as Siomex. It can however promote an opportunity to personally interface with buyers and effectively present your product.