Just as there are things you can expect from Total Door Systems, there are things we expect from you, our sales reps. Perhaps the most important expectation is that each sales rep is expected to onboard a number of new distributors within your area and maintain those relationships.
The onboarding process varies from territory to territory, because each territory is unique in markets and distribution. On top of that, territory structure is ever evolving by the nature of changes to the market and changes to distribution. This is why you are so important to us. You are the ones who know your territory best. We are counting on you to understand the different nuances that make your territory unique and to help us evolve the structure of distribution.
Already we’ve evolved from an exclusive distribution model to one where you are encouraged to get multiple quotes for each project. Since everyone will get the same price from TDS, this creates healthy competition among the distributors on the final price to the end customer.
Let’s look at the onboarding process. You start with your core distribution and methodically build it from there. Look to add distributors who give you good market and geographical coverage. But, try to avoid market conflict.
When choosing which distributors to add to your base, look at what types of construction projects in your territory are in progress or slated to begin. Is it trending towards more commercial high rise, multi-family units, hospitality buildings, healthcare or some combination? Then, look at what is needed to penetrate these markets and which distributors serve these markets.
Once you’ve put that list together, which distributors fit the Total Door Systems profile the best? Areas to look at include sales and installation, their aftermarket focus, do they offer a broad “one stop” service approach, do they have access to the right markets and do they have the ability to influence product selection within their markets.
This is a brief look at how we view the distributor onboarding process. If you have other tips to add or any questions, don’t hesitate to let us know.
