Secrets of the most successful freight brokers

Everyone seems to find the easy tips to become a world-class freight broker, but it's just not that simple. Here's a list that was recently posted by Richmond News in an article, but I think there's more to success in this industry than just these 5 tips. For example, being a likable, easy-going people-person (if that makes sense), means way more than "finding a niche" but let's take a look anyway!

Source: Richmond News

"1. Embrace technology

Regardless of your age or technical prowess, it’s never too late to learn how to use technology to your advantage. The most successful freight brokers are the ones constantly discovering and implementing new tools that can make their jobs easier.

Some examples that can boost your business include brokerage based TMS systems, load matching apps, digital dashboards, shipment tracking which can help maintain an edge by managing details for customers’satisfaction, such as scheduling, shipment tracking and client relations.

2. Establish relationships with carriers

This is not as big of an issue to contend with if you are joining a freight brokerage company, but it can mean the difference between success and failure if you have decided to start your own business.

3. Learn how to sell yourself

Intelligent marketing is one of your best tools for finding success in any industry. Clients want to know what you can do for them and why your services are different and better than the competition. This is important to remember when you’re seeking new leads.

Ensure you have an up-to-date, informative and visually appealing website, which should include a blog, an information page with a working contact form and separate pages so clients can learn about you, your services and the advantages in choosing you to handle their business.

Successful brokers should also have active social media pages and an established presence in search engine business indexes.

4. Find your niche and be vocal about it

What makes your particular freight brokerage better than your competitors'?

Don’t rely on vague promises of reliability and "putting the customer first" to gain the interest of potential clients.

Successful freight brokers should be professional, reliable and client-focused, so using these tactics as the thrust of your marketing would be like a car salesman trying to close a deal by telling your that the vehicle comes with four tires and a steering wheel.

Instead, take time to figure out what your unique offerings are, such as experience in a certain mode of trucking or logistics competitors may not have.

Dedicate some time and creativity to finding your niche, and base your marketing strategy around capturing that corner of the industry and making a name for yourself.

5. Never stop learning and growing

One secret to becoming a more successful freight broker mid-career is to never feel like you’ve learned all there is to know. Make it a habit to constantly look for conferences, webinars, news articles and classes that can help you stay at the cutting edge of your industry. Develop relationships with industry professionals you can learn from, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or try something new."