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What is the best way to get companies to pilot out an application? (Free)

I have just launched and am actively looking to get pilot companies to test my product but find it difficult in the recruiting space.

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Tom Williams

Clarity's top expert on all things startup

Social Proof (customer testimonials), Press or Analyst Coverage is a key driver in checking-out new tools. Unfortunately, there is such a significant number of vendors offering recruiting solutions that it's difficult to get a customer's attention, even with a free offering.

I would focus on your messaging: Why are you better than similar solutions and what proof or anecdotal evidence can you offer?

Also, LinkedIn ads targeting just recruiters or HR execs can be effective (though expensive).

Happy to talk through this with you as I have built products in this space that have achieved product/market-fit.

Answered almost 11 years ago

Sean Middleton

Founder & COO of Cognizant's business incubator

While your application doesn't have a monetary cost, it isn't free. Even for the pilot you need time from the person you're selling to.

In my experience pitching and being pitched to, that time is often worth more to the person you're trying to work with than money. I know that is true of my recruiters who are primarily driven by finding high quality candidates quickly; cost is secondary.

Without knowing your value proposition, it is tough to give you specific tips. Generally I'd say you need to craft a pitch that not only addresses a pain point, but also doesn't require a lot of cost (including time on the buyer's part) to test out. Show them the big picture but also how they can start small. If they don't like it, make it easy to walk away. If they do like it, then you can scale.

Good luck.

Answered almost 11 years ago