Q&A Becomes a Custom Content Star for Mack Trucks

BulldogWhat questions do potential customers have about your B2B brand? Mack Trucks got it right when they added a section to their website called “Talking SCR.”  SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) is a new technology that Mack employed to meet stricter emissions regulations. The change had truck owners worried about how SCR technology would affect fuel economy, costs and maintenance.

The SCR Talks section allows website visitors to submit questions via email to Dave McKenna, director of Powertrain sales and marketing. Questions and answers are then posted on www.macktruck.com. The appeal of the section is in the authenticity of both the truckers and McKenna.

While McKenna is straightforward in presenting the facts, his passion and enthusiasm for Mack shines through, especially when he shares the news of a sale.  He deals with competitive questions head on. Customers show genuine appreciation for the information. Says one customer, “Thanks for all the great information and for taking your time to answer our questions – it’s invaluable in understanding the real world applicability of these technologies.”

Information that your audience finds invaluable is powerful. The opportunity to ask a question and get a personal response is simple, yet effective in building brand loyalty. Shared on the Internet, the information becomes a benefit to the entire Mack Truck community and a positive force for the brand.

In an interview with B2B for its “10 Great Websites” feature article, Sharon Shuman, director of e-business for Mack Trucks, called SCR Talks one of the most popular areas of the website.

What questions are your customers asking? Who can best answer them? Mack Trucks offers proof that Q&A can become quality custom content–useful information  that can drive traffic and build loyalty among your audience.

How is Content Like a Campfire?

A campfire fills a need whether for outdoor cooking, light, or warmth. A campfire is isolated and controlled, drawing people towards it even when they are lost. A mood and expectation surround it. This small, functional and aesthetic space attracts people. A call to action is also present. To keep it going, a campfire needs to be tended.

So does content.

When I prepare content for a website I answer questions posed by the four Ps: Purpose, Process, Problem, and Practice. People are making decisions everyday on what to engage with. Remember the campfire. It shows immediate relevance. Its value is recognizable. So should your content be.

Purpose

Quality content resolves a need, want, or force. Website visitors start the conversation, usually with a question. Know them well enough to answer their questions. Help them counteract any opposing forces.

Process

Understand where in the product purchase cycle your prospects are and provide them with obvious pathways to finding what they need. Show them you are different. Demonstrate your expertise.

Problem

Address problems. Offer solutions. Help visitors complete their task. Discover trails that lead to success. Product descriptions, instructions, and training are problem busters throughout the buying cycle.

Practice

Explain your product or service well enough for the buyer to make a decision. What is getting in the way? Be clear and concise. Speak directly to your target market. Simplify.

You are not fighting forest fires. You are adding kindling to your campfire. Site visitors will become a part of your circle. Let competitors put their fires out; you feed yours. Keep your site well tended with content that is fresh, relevant, and recognizable.

Quality content is like a campfire because it serves a purpose, solves a problem, attracts attention, and creates a space for conversations.