Episode Details

Are you a boutique supplier trying to get distributors to notice you without becoming “that annoying email” they delete before coffee?

In this bite-sized episode, Adrienne Barker, Lisa Fosdick, and Kim Ballerene break down practical outreach strategies suppliers can actually execute, especially for small teams. They cover why regional shows can beat the big trade shows for relationship building, how to treat attendee lists like gold, why email marketing only works when your CRM and list hygiene are solid, and how LinkedIn can put you directly into a distributor’s focused attention. They also bring back the unsung heroes: phone calls, handwritten thank you notes, and “lumpy mail” that gets remembered.

6 key takeaways → Regional shows are the most doable play for small teams and a powerful way to meet local reps who actually work your market

→ Attendee lists from shows are a seed list for long term marketing, treat them like a real business asset

→ Email marketing works best with a real CRM, clean data, and consistent cadence, not random blasts from your inbox

→ Even unopened emails still build brand recognition because your name and subject line still get seen → LinkedIn is the best social channel for this industry because it reaches business decision makers in a focused environment

→ Relationships win, so mix channels: calls, notes, mailers, and value-driven outreach make you memorable and easier to buy from

Call to action Want to be a guest on the show? Reach out on LinkedIn, or email Lisa or Kim at thepromoplaybook.com to get scheduled.

Adrienne - https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriennebarkermas/

Lisa - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-fosdick/

Kimberly - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlymillerballerene/