Government Marketing with CAGE Codes and NAICS Codes

You’ll need to know and speak the government’s language if you’re planning on pursuing any of the contracts that are solicited. Knowing which NAICS codes and CAGE codes you fall under will help you identify the current needs for your services; however, it’s also important to know how to use NAICS codes and CAGE codes to promote your products and services.

Advantages of Using CAGE Codes and NAICS Codes

When marketing to government agencies, you’ll have to put in more detail than if you were selling to another business in the private sector. You’ll have to tailor the information for so it’s specific to their common issues and needs. And, make sure you market using their codes! Here’s why:

• Simplify things for the agency. Because you’re using the agency’s codes, they won’t have to figure out your product or service – it saves them time.
• It shows that you’ve done your homework. If you’re marketing with the agency’s codes and a competitor isn’t, it shows that you pick up on the details. And, naturally, the agencies need to work with companies who pay close attention to details. It’s a good indicator that they’ll handle a project with as much detail and execute it right.
• Call more attention to your products or services. Agencies will be able to quickly classify your business’ product or service since you’re speaking their language.

Where to Feature your Codes for Government Marketing Purposes

Before anything, make sure you are using the correct NAICS code or CAGE code. Talk to a government expert about the category and codes that best qualify your specific business so you know for sure that you have your NAICS codes or CAGE codes covered correctly. For example, if you’re trying to figure out a NAICS code, contact the Census Bureau’s resident expert on industry classification at (888) 75NAICS.

Whether you feature your services in print collateral, email, postal mail, or on your website, it’s a good idea to mention your NAICS codes or CAGE codes. Your best bet is to highlight them early on in the description of your services.