About Matthew Barksdale2026-07-17T13:47:13-05:00

About

Matthew Barksdale is President of ZAG FIRST, a B2B marketing agency specializing in industrial, construction, and manufacturing companies across the United States. With over 20 years of experience in B2B marketing, he leads strategy for clients focused on connecting with prospects and generating qualified leads through SEO, paid search, and LinkedIn marketing. Matthew holds a BS from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania and an MBA from Rockhurst University.

Latest Articles

A Comprehensive Guide to Selecting the Right Digital Marketing Agency for B2B Companies

B2B Marketing, B2B Marketing Strategy|

Introduction to Selecting the Right Digital Marketing Agency for B2B Companies In today's digital age, marketing is a crucial component for any company's success, and this is especially true for B2B (Business-to-Business) companies. Unlike B2C (Business-to-Consumer) marketing, which targets individual consumers, B2B marketing is aimed at other businesses. This fundamental difference impacts all aspects of the marketing process, from the strategies used to the way success is measured. The characteristics of B2B markets such as longer sales cycles, fewer customers, higher value transactions, and more complex decision-making processes necessitate a different marketing approach than B2C markets. As a result, [...]

A Comprehensive Guide to Selecting the Right Digital Marketing Agency for Manufacturers

B2B Manufacturing Marketing, B2B Marketing|

Introduction to Selecting the Right Digital Marketing Agency for Manufacturers In today's rapidly evolving digital world, selecting the right marketing agency for manufacturing marketing is paramount to the success for any manufacturing company. With numerous marketing agencies claiming to specialize in servicing manufacturing companies, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. This comprehensive guide aims to simplify the selection process and help you make an informed decision that aligns with your company's goals and objectives. Understanding the Importance of Digital Marketing for Manufacturing Companies Before diving into the selection process, it's essential to [...]

Where B2B Manufacturers Go Wrong with Their Lead Generation Efforts

B2B Manufacturing Marketing, B2B Marketing|

Lead generation is a vital aspect of any manufacturing company's growth strategy. However, many manufacturers struggle to effectively generate and convert leads, often due to common mistakes in their approach. This article aims to shed light on where B2B manufacturers go wrong with their lead generation efforts and provide guidance on marketing for manufacturing. 1) Overlooking Digital Manufacturing Marketing Despite the clear shift towards digital in the business world, some manufacturers are still hesitant to embrace digital marketing. This reluctance is often due to a lack of understanding of the potential benefits of digital strategies or a fear of venturing into [...]

Mastering Digital Marketing for Manufacturers: Proven Strategies for Success

B2B Manufacturing Marketing, B2B Marketing|

In the fast-paced world of business, manufacturing companies often face unique challenges. From handling complex supply chains to balancing operational costs, the tasks are many. Amidst all this, digital marketing for manufacturers may not always be at the forefront of strategic planning. However, effective marketing for manufacturing is not just a luxury – it’s a necessity. And that’s where we come in. At ZagFirst, we specialize in delivering tailored marketing solutions that drive growth and success for manufacturing businesses, while staying within budget.   Understanding the Importance of Digital Marketing for Manufacturers Manufacturing industries are traditionally B2B (business-to-business) entities, which [...]

Revolutionizing Your Business: The Ultimate Guide to Marketing for Manufacturers

B2B Manufacturing Marketing|

Welcome to the world of manufacturing marketing, where complexities rule the roost and innovation is at the heart of every operation. Amidst this dynamic environment, one aspect that often gets overlooked but holds paramount importance is marketing for manufacturers. In an industry known more for its machines than its messaging, marketing can often be the underutilized tool that could propel your manufacturing business to new heights. In today's increasingly digital economy, marketing is not just about promoting your products or services. It's about communicating your value proposition, establishing relationships, and positioning your manufacturing firm as an industry leader. This guide [...]

LinkedIn Marketing for Manufacturers: Strategies for Effective Lead Generation

B2B Manufacturing Marketing, B2B Marketing|

Introduction to LinkedIn Marketing for Manufacturers LinkedIn has emerged as a powerful tool for B2B marketing, especially for manufacturers looking to generate leads and build industry connections. The professional networking platform allows manufacturers to showcase their capabilities, highlight their achievements, and engage with potential clients in meaningful ways. This article delves into how you can leverage LinkedIn to enhance your manufacturing business's lead generation strategy.   The Significance of LinkedIn Marketing for Manufacturing The importance of LinkedIn Marketing for Manufacturers cannot be overstated. As a networking hub, it offers a unique platform for manufacturers to connect with professionals, decision-makers, and [...]

Go to Top