Once you have researched your potential sponsor’s target audience and goals, you are ready to reach out, though it can be difficult to identify the decision maker. Here are 3 things to remember:
- Sponsorship is a marketing tool, so the marketing department is always a good place to start.
- If you are approaching a small company that doesn’t have a marketing department, speak with the owner(s).
- Always confirm that the person you are speaking to is the right person to help you, before sending over detailed information. Keep your ask short/quick and make it easy for them to respond.
- LinkedIn is a great tool for checking job titles and names you find online. Check out their current roles and objectives.
- Press Releases, especially those for new product or service releases. They usually include a quote from the Brand/Marketing Manager. Also the PR contacts at the bottom are good people to ask on who would be the right contact.
- Websites are a great place, too. Check out the About pages. Meet the Team is another good place, along with blogs/articles, too.
- If all else fails, call the switchboard and ask for the Marketing Manager. Once you get hold of them, remember to confirm they are the right person to speak with.