As our industry (and the world) is in flux, we're all looking for guidance on how to stay afloat. Well, look no further: You've finally found it. Consider this your comprehensive guide of how to not only survive but thrive during this unprecedented time. Take advantage of these tips, tricks and tools that will help you stay one step ahead, even when the future is uncertain.
Survive the Times With AIM Smarter
Even if you're a one-person operation, you don't need to go through this alone – AIM Smarter is here to help. As the largest distributor organization in the industry with 2,200+ members in the U.S. and U.K. and counting, AIM has a proven track record and all the resources you need to succeed in a rapidly changing sales landscape. That's because they're a company built by distributors, for distributors – they understand your needs, as demonstrated by the standard AIM membership including:
Best pricing with the industry's top suppliers
Including an added cash back incentive program on top of the special pricing benefits
Cloud-based order management platform
Included with the membership – no extra purchase necessary
B2B discounts
Including healthcare, car rentals, hotels and more
Invitations to
special networking events and programs
All tailored specifically for AIM members
Access to carefully crafted selling tools
All uniquely built from a distributor's perspective
Access to exclusive Facebook networking groups
Learn from fellow members and their combined industry experience
And so much more.
AIM is also proud to provide special tools and services to help you during the pandemic, such as:
COVID-19 Business Updates
Knowledge is power. Make sure you have access to the most up-to-date information on how to navigate the impact of COVID-19. From social distancing orders to the latest info on PPE (personal protective equipment) requirements, you likely have a lot of questions.
Don't worry: AIM has you covered. They have, and continue to host, numerous webinars, including ones with their legal team to answer your questions about PPP (Paycheck Protection Program), provide breaking news on legislation and bulletins from governmental agencies, plus opportunities to connect with supplier partners to discuss sales strategies.
Check the Blog for More Business News
Discover even more updates and resources on everything you need to keep going on AIM's blog.
Read the blog
COVID-19 Back-to-Business Relief
AIM understands that times are tough, and with many end-buyers reducing their budgets, distributors are left in a tight spot. To help with the financial strain, AIM is proud to provide members with an assortment of services that can help you ramp up business and regain momentum.
2 ESP licenses for the price of one ($49 value)
FREE AIM Catalogs ($150 value)
FREE AIM Tech Suite Training ($99 value)
FREE order management platform acccess
And more.
Order Financing Available
Take back control of your time and supercharge your company's potential by eliminating cash flow issues. With AIM Capital Solutions, AIM's most comprehensive level of membership services, they're able to offer full order financing for any domestic order, along with countless cutting-edge tools and robust business support. Stop getting bogged down with all financial paperwork and let AIM free you up to do what you do best instead.
Learn more.
Supplier Statuses
One of the greatest challenges distributors now face is figuring out which suppliers are operating at full or partial capacity at the moment you're placing an order. With staff limitations and social distancing measures in place to prevent the spread of disease, operation levels change daily and it can feel impossible to know who to turn to for help.
AIM is here for you. Their Supplier Relations team is in constant contact with their supplier partners, and to make things easier for you, they've created a page with live updates so you can know exactly what to expect at any given time.
Stay in the Know: Supplier Specials
Many suppliers are offering limited-time deals as well as member-only AIM-exclusive discounts. Don't miss out on all the savings with AIM's dedicated page for fast reference. They've organized everything in one convenient spot so you can take a look at all their partners are offering.
Group Buys
Who doesn't like saving on products you sell often? That's why AIM has partnered with top suppliers in the industry to provide members with high-demand products at exclusive low prices.
For example, early in the year when PPE products were hard to come by, AIM was able to work with their suppliers to secure exclusive inventory just for AIM members. Don't worry: They continue to work with suppliers to bring members other special products and exclusive MOQ opportunities, so members like you can keep selling at great prices. These benefits carry on to the end-user as well, as AIM's group buys allow members to provide clients with limited and premium products at excellent prices and quantities.
Idea Generator
Welcome to your home base for creative sales ideas that will keep your business strong amidst the COVID-19 economy. These resources are completely client-friendly and will help you educate and market to clients, as well as connect with them.
Don't just tell your clients what can help – show them. It's easy with AIM's free members-only e-book, which provides all the lifestyle images, ideas and terminology that you and your clients might need. Be sure to check back for updates and new tools as well, as AIM is committed to giving you everything you need for your business during this time.
Idea of the Day
Looking for even more bright ideas? Every day, AIM highlights one product from an AIM VIP Supplier, showcasing innovative ways it has been used in our current climate. Whether it's thanking front-line workers, helping employees optimize a new work-from-home routine or providing tools for an essential business to pivot their game plan, AIM has your daily dose of inspiration to think outside the box.
Timely Videos & Webinars
One of the easiest ways to learn is to hear from experts themselves. To that end, AIM is amassing a collection of videos and regularly scheduled webinars for members that cover a wide range of topics essential to the current climate. No matter what you feel you need a little extra help with, AIM is sure to have an educational video that answers your questions.
Anxiety Resource Workbook
Mental health is extremely important, especially during high-stress situations such as this. If you're feeling some fatigue or anxiety, take advantage of AIM's workbook filled with tools that can help you stay resilient during difficult times. This workbook is a true asset, thanks to its helpful tips, practical steps and great resources that can assist you in getting through all that's going on, one day at a time.
Because AIM genuinely cares, they work tirelessly to provide practical tools and exclusive resources to help their distributor members grow and thrive. Stop struggling and join the team that can help you to take your business to the next level. With AIM, you've always got people in your corner and you're no longer alone. They're extending a helping hand – all you have to do is take it.