Research Examines HR Executives’ Purchasing
<p><strong>Capitola, Calif. — June 8</strong><br />Buyers of human resource products and services are increasingly relying on the Internet when making purchasing decisions, and as a result, search engine rankings are now a key factor when determining whether an HR vendor is included in a request for proposals (RFPs). </p><p>These are some of the key findings of “Trends in HR Marketing: HR Buyers’ Behavior 2007,” a new research report from HRmarketer.com, a marketing and media visibility firm in the human resources and employee benefits industry. </p><p>HRmarketer.com surveyed thousands of human resource and benefits executives during the first two quarters of 2007. </p><p>The results reflect the latest trends and best practices for marketing to these decision makers — as well as information on which search engines and keywords they most often use when searching for products and services.<br /><br />Additionally, the report tracks the progress of the HR buyer through the purchasing cycle and illustrates the tools they use to progress through each stage. </p><p>Industries represented include health care, manufacturing, professional services and other markets.<br /><br />“The Internet has drastically altered how HR professionals research and purchase technology and services,” said Kevin Grossman, HRmarketer.com chief operating officer. “New approaches are needed to stand out amid the marketing clamor. </p><p>"This report provides suppliers with fresh insights to help HR suppliers spend their marketing and PR dollars wisely and effectively reach potential buyers.”<br /><br />Sample findings include:<br /></p><ul><li>Overall, HR buyers are placing less value on traditional print media as a key source of information compared with online sources.</li><li>Blogs, podcasts and webcasts have caught the attention of HR and benefits professionals.<br /></li><li>HR buyers place increasing importance on a vendor’s online visibility, including the vendor’s own Web site.</li></ul><p> </p><p>Part of a continuing series, “HR Buyers’ Behavior” also examines the value of exhibiting at trade shows, the frequency at which companies purchase various products and services and which departments are primarily involved in buying decisions. </p>
