Many newcomers to foreign trade will ask: where exactly do customers come from?
The reality is:
👉 The platform is just one of the channels, not all of them.
A truly stable source of customers usually comes from a combination of multiple channels.
I. Google search: the most direct source of customers
By searching for keywords, you can directly find the official website of a potential customer, for example:
- welding wire importer
- steel distributor USA
✔ Tip:
- Search with "company + email" combination
- Find the official website and get contact information
📌 Strengths: Accurate, direct buyer matchmaking
Second, B2B platform: suitable for rapid start-up
Common Platforms:
- Alibaba
- Made-in-China
- Global Sources
✔ Fit:
- Start-ups
- Products that need exposure
📌 Disadvantages: high competition, high costs
Third, independent station SEO: long-term stable customer acquisition (core recommendation)
When a customer searches Google:
👉 "best welding wire supplier"
If your website shows up, you will continue to get inquiries.
✔ Advantage:
- No reliance on platforms
- Customers come to you
- Higher conversion rates
👉 Shandong Outreach Advantage:
Through SEO + content layout, we help companies get continuous accurate traffic instead of short-term inquiries.
IV. Social media development of customers
Recommended Channel:
- LinkedIn (most important)
- YouTube
✔ Focus:
Build a professional image, not a direct sales pitch
V. Developing letters: still valid, but upgraded
Traditional development letters are less effective, but "precision development letters" are still effective.
✔ Optimize the way:
- Personalized Headlines
- Write content for your industry
- Provide solutions, not quotes
VI. Exhibitions and offline channels
Fit:
- bulk products
- Industrial products
✔ Strengths: a strong sense of trust
VII. Customer referrals (neglected channels)
Referral of new customers by old customers is the least expensive way.
✔ Recommendation:
- Establishment of long-term cooperative relationships
- Provision of stable services
