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Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about my product marketing consulting services.

Services & Overview

What is a Product Marketing Consultant?

As a Product Marketing Consultant, I provide both strategic leadership and hands-on execution on a flexible, part-time basis (also known as a fractional model). I bring product marketing expertise to B2B SaaS companies without the cost and commitment of a full-time hire, helping with everything from strategy development to tactical implementation. This model is particularly valuable for Series A and B startups looking to establish and execute strong marketing foundations.

What are the benefits of hiring a Product Marketing Consultant versus hiring in-house?

Working with a consultant offers significant cost savings as you get senior-level expertise without the full-time salary and benefits commitment. You gain immediate access to proven experience, accelerating your time-to-market without the delays of recruiting and training an in-house employee. Additionally, I bring an objective outside perspective unconstrained by internal politics, while offering the flexibility to scale marketing efforts up or down based on your needs.

Why should I work with a Product Marketing Consultant when I can use AI for market research and positioning?

While AI is a powerful tool for gathering and synthesizing information, strategic positioning requires nuanced understanding and interpretation that only human expertise can provide. The true value in positioning work comes from identifying subtle market dynamics, uncovering unspoken customer needs, and making deliberate strategic choices about where to play and how to win. Through customer interviews and collaborative workshops, we uncover insights that aren't documented anywhere - like how customers actually make buying decisions, what unstated problems they're trying to solve, and which alternatives they truly consider. This human-led approach helps us identify unique market opportunities and develop positioning that genuinely resonates with decision-makers. As April Dunford emphasizes in her positioning methodology, success comes from deeply understanding a narrow set of customers and making strategic choices about how to position yourself for them, something that requires business judgment, market intuition, and real-world experience that AI simply cannot replicate.

How can a Product Marketing Consultant help my startup?

I help establish your marketing foundation through strategic positioning, audience-based messaging, and clear go-to-market strategies. I focus on creating sustainable growth strategies rather than random tactical experiments. This approach ensures every marketing dollar is invested strategically toward your business goals.

What makes your approach different from other product marketing consultants?

I combine strategic planning with hands-on execution, focusing on building sustainable marketing foundations rather than just tactical campaigns. My approach emphasizes understanding your customers' problems, competitive landscape, and unique strengths to create actionable, results-driven marketing strategies.

Experience & Expertise

What types of companies do you typically work with?

I specialize in working with B2B SaaS startups, particularly those in Series A or B stages. My expertise spans productivity tools, developer tools, workforce analytics, data analytics, and event registration technology sectors.

What specific services do you provide?

My services include developing your ideal customer profile, creating differentiated positioning, crafting impactful messaging, building go-to-market strategies, and implementing sales enablement plans. I can also help with product-led growth strategies, developer marketing, demand generation, and inbound content marketing. Additionally, I can support your growth planning by either developing your marketing team hiring plan or mentoring your existing team members.

Do you have experience in my industry?

I bring 12 years of experience as a first marketing hire and consultant in early-stage and growth-stage B2B startups. My background spans productivity tools, developer tools, workforce analytics, data analytics, and event registration technology, allowing me to quickly understand complex products and translate technical capabilities into compelling market positioning.

Engagement & Process

What is the typical engagement duration?

Engagements vary based on your needs and goals, ranging from focused 3-month projects to ongoing strategic partnerships. Some clients bring me on for specific initiatives like positioning and messaging or sales training, while others prefer ongoing partnerships lasting several months or even years.

How do we ensure a successful partnership?

Success starts with clear alignment on goals, expectations, and timelines. I integrate closely with your team while maintaining the objectivity of an external advisor. Regular communication and access to key stakeholders and information are essential for maximizing the value of our partnership.

Still have questions?

© 2024 by Mariana Racasan

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