Board games have been a great way for friends and family to connect and have fun for centuries. Surprisingly, these popular, age-old games can also be a source of inspiration and advice for B2B marketers looking to refine their strategy. Here are 4 takeaways that board games can teach us about B2B marketing:
1. Embrace a Long-Term Mindset
Board games typically don’t have a single quick answer- instead, success requires setting a carefully thought-out plan of multiple steps and strategies. B2B marketing is no different – long-term success in the industry requires a well-thought out strategy, with multiple objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs).
2. It’s All About the Competition
The game of life, Monopoly, or Risk- they all have one thing in common: competition. The same holds true for B2B marketing. An effective strategy requires that you know your competition and what they’re offering. By doing a competitive analysis and understanding which services you offer that can’t be found elsewhere, you can create a marketing plan that sets you up for a winning streak over your rivals.
3. Don’t Take Shortcuts
When playing board games, it can be tempting to take shortcuts or bend the rules to get a win. But that won’t usually end well. In B2B marketing, too, it’s best to stick to the core principles: focus on quality, craft compelling stories, and use reliable data. Doing so sets you up for success in the long run, rather than relying on short-term fixes that may not pay off.
4. Utilize Available Resources
Board games often require savvy resource management and strategy in order to come out ahead. The same is true for B2B marketing – it’s important to be aware of what resources you have at your disposal and to utilize them in the most efficient way. Whether it’s a budget for influencer marketing or a team of marketing professionals, it’s important to know how to maximize the tools available to you in order to maximize your ROI.
In summary, board games can provide B2B marketers with invaluable insights into strategy and success. By embracing a long-term mindset that takes into account competition and available resources, and by avoiding quick fixes, marketers can position themselves for success.
So, the next time you head to the board game closet, think of some of these ideas and play your way to B2B marketing success!
