15. SaaS Value Proposition with Gil Rogers (GR7 Marketing)

The theme of our 15th podcast episode is SaaS Value Proposition.

Joining our host Jeremy Balius to discuss all things marketing in a community and community management is Gil Rogers from GR7 Marketing.

Summary

In this conversation, Gil Rogers shares his journey from an admissions counselor to a fractional CMO in the ed tech space. He discusses the importance of understanding value propositions, the challenges of storytelling in EdTech, and the lengthy sales cycles that companies face. Gil emphasizes the need for building relationships over focusing solely on product features and highlights the significance of a strong marketing strategy that resonates with the target audience. He also touches on the internal politics of organizations and how external consultants can navigate these dynamics effectively.

Key Takeaways

• Many EdTech companies focus on features rather than the underlying ‘why’ of their products.

• Storytelling is crucial for EdTech companies to connect with their audience.

• Building relationships is more important than having a perfect product.

• The sales cycle in EdTech can be lengthy, often taking up to two years.

• Understanding customer needs is essential for crafting a compelling value proposition.

• Consultants can provide an external perspective that helps organizations see their blind spots.

• Patience and curiosity are key traits for successful marketing in EdTech.

• The future of SaaS in EdTech may require a blend of human support and software solutions.

About Gil Rogers

Gil Rogers is a strategic innovator in education technology marketing, working as a fractional CMO to help EdTech companies refine messaging, define unique value, and drive revenue growth. With a strong background in enrollment management and digital marketing, Gil has led record-breaking recruitment cycles and played key roles in EdTech’s evolution, including at Zinch.com (later acquired by Chegg) and the National Research Center for College and University Admissions (NRCCUA). 

He founded GR7 Marketing to support entrepreneurs in effectively reaching educational institutions. Known for his energetic style, Gil shares insights at national conferences on marketing strategy, leadership, and executive hiring. 

Connect with Gil on LinkedIn.  

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B2B Tech Marketing Talks is a podcast bringing you insightful conversations with leading marketing and channel leaders about B2B tech marketing. Our goal is to provide you with valuable insights, fresh perspectives and practical advice from experienced marketing leaders who have successfully navigated the challenges you face daily as a B2B tech marketer.

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