Being skilled at analytics, product development and inspiring people I am not that good at sales. I have a great software developers team, proven track record and passion to do what we love. It's a small focused team and we can't afford a full-time sales person in US. Odesk and Elance are more about extremely low-cost and short-term projects - we bring real value and have higer rates than Indian devs. How can I find a long-term commitment?
Hi there! Firstly I think there's been some great responses to your questions. Perhaps just to add a additions.
1. I don't believe you need to hire full time salespersons yet, but rather looking at finding a fractional BD partner first.
A commission-only or fractional arrangement with someone who already has relationships with CTOs or product leads at growing SaaS or digital product companies is far more viable than a full-time hire. The right person brings a warm network, understands longer sales cycles, and can represent you credibly (and passion) without you needing to be in the room.
2. Digital agencies and consultancies as channel partners. Typically strategy and UX firms that either don't build, or are overextended (needs a trusted dev partner). A white-label or referral arrangement would suite both sides in this instance, and is often how smaller offshore teams land their most stable and long-term relationships.
The long term commitment you are looking for comes from clients who trust you before they sign. Build visibility and credibility on 1 or 2 verticals, and your existing clients would be excellent reference points and case studies to accelerate you to the next level.
Hope it helps!
