The role of self-service ordering has become increasingly important for both B2B businesses and their customers. With tools like mobile sales apps, businesses can make B2B ordering easier.
Technology in B2B self-ordering
The success of self-ordering in today’s B2B sales is linked to technology, like B2B sales websites and B2B sales apps. Websites and apps provide customers with a user-friendly platform, making it easy for customers to use without needing much training. This ensures that even people who aren’t tech-savvy can easily place orders, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
While these are the tools that make it possible. Let’s look at why self-service ordering is becoming more important and how it makes B2B customer interactions better by being more convenient and efficient.
Accessibility 24/7
Transactions may happen in different time zones and locations. Therefore the 24/7 accessibility of self-service ordering has many benefits including, allowing customers to buy and manage orders anytime, anywhere. Unlike traditional methods where there is limited office hours and sales rep availability, self-service platforms provide constant access to products and services.
This convenience helps customers worldwide because it works for different schedules and time zones. Customers can order, check deliveries, and see their accounts anytime, making it easier to handle their purchases. As for your business, it means reaching more customers and having more chances to make sales as you are not limited by office hours and schedules.
Streamlining the B2B sales process
Usually, B2B sales include many steps where sales reps meet or call potential clients to make deals. But now, sales apps allow businesses to set up their own B2B self-service sales channel. This not only saves time but also gives customers a sense of independence, creating a more positive and efficient buying experience.
In a fast-paced business setting, where time is vital, the convenience of self-service ordering can strongly influence a customer in selecting its suppliers.The use of self-service lets customers access your product catalogue whenever they want and wherever they want by enabling them to place orders using their mobile devices, this leads to more orders and happier customers.
Increased order volume and revenue
Another benefit of letting customers order for themselves is that it can result in a big increase in the number of orders. This is because a sales app makes it easier and more convenient for your customers, encouraging them to place orders more often. Therefore businesses can see a rise in how often transactions happen, leading to more revenue.
Convenience and flexibility for customers
One of the major benefits of B2B self-ordering is the convenience it offers customers. They no longer have to wait for a salesperson to visit or call. Instead, they can take charge and order whenever they want, saving time and offering flexibility. When businesses let customers control the process, it shows a commitment to meeting their needs well. This positive experience builds loyalty, creating strong, long-term relationships between you and your customers.
Productivity boost for sales teams
Introducing self-service ordering not only helps customers but also enables sales teams to concentrate on other important tasks. By streamlining routine order processing and freeing up time, sales reps are able to focus on strategic activities like building relationships, identifying new business opportunities, and offering personalised support to clients. This increased efficiency allows sales teams to boost their overall productivity and help drive business growth.
Data and analytics
Moreover, the data from self-service platforms gives useful insights into how customers behave and what they prefer. Businesses can then use this information to adjust their offerings, improve pricing, and create targeted marketing. Businesses even have the opportunity to use analytics and artificial intelligence, to go even further, allowing them to use the information collected to predict trends and understand customer needs. This helps fine-tune sales strategies and contributes to the overall success of the business.
Improved order accuracy
Self-ordering is great for making sure orders are correct. When customers input their orders directly, the possibility for mistakes goes down significantly. Direct interaction like this reduces the risk of misunderstandings that can happen when relying on using middlemen like sales reps. The result is a more accurate and smooth order process, which is an advantage for both you and your customer.
Overcoming challenges with self-service ordering
While self-service ordering comes with clear benefits, businesses need to be aware of potential challenges. One significant concern is making sure customers feel well-supported during the self-ordering process. To tackle this, businesses can set up strong customer support systems to provide help when needed and ensure a smooth shift to self-service ordering.
Additionally, you should ensure that the app or site that you use has a user-friendly interface that caters to a diverse audience. Since B2B customers may not always be fluent in the same languages, the app’s language should be clear, concise, and free from unnecessary jargon. This inclusive approach ensures that the advantages of self-ordering are accessible to a global clientele.
The future of B2B sales
The future of B2B sales is shaped by the growing importance of self-service ordering, especially through platforms like mobile sales apps. This signals a shift towards a more efficient, customer-focused approach. Allowing customers to place orders easily brings benefits such as increased order volume, better customer satisfaction, and heightened loyalty.
As technology advances, the use of self-service ordering in B2B sales is expected to become even more common.. Businesses should embrace this shift, ensuring their self-service platforms are user-friendly, inclusive, and well-supported by customer assistance. The future of B2B sales is undoubtedly moving towards a seamless, technology-driven model that prioritises customer needs and convenience, these are only some of the reasons why it’s beneficial to start using self service in b2b sales.
Onsight’s ordering websites and mobile sales apps, are designed to make the sales process smoother. One feature that enables this is customer self ordering. Onsight allows your customers to create their own orders using their phone, tablet, or computer. You can control things like pricing, information, and what products customers can see, all based on your business needs. Sign up for a free trial to start making use of self service ordering in your B2B sales process.
