The problem with being excellent and invisible
Engineering firms are usually run by engineers, and engineers let the work speak for itself. The trouble is that the work only speaks to people who have already hired you. Everyone else sees a list of services, a few project photos and the same words as every competitor: quality, experience, reliable.
When a buyer cannot see the difference, they treat engineering hours as a commodity and negotiate on rates. The firms that avoid this are not always better engineers. They are clearer about what they are best at and who it is for.
What we do for engineering firms
- Positioning. We work out where you win on expertise, not rates, and make that the centre of how the firm presents itself.
- Brand and message. Plain language that a project manager, a procurement lead and a director each understand, backed by an identity that looks like the standard of your work.
- Website. Sectors, capabilities, projects and people set out so a buyer can check you in five minutes and a graduate wants to apply.
- Capability statements. A capability statement and tender response template that match the website.
- Growth. LinkedIn authority for the senior people, enquiry capture and follow-up, and a business development rhythm that does not rely on one director’s contacts.
- Advisory. A partner working alongside the owners on business value, succession and what comes next.
See the full list of services.
Brand also wins people
In engineering, the constraint on growth is often people, not work. A firm that is known for something attracts better candidates and keeps them. Dan Hardy spent years in engineering recruitment before ORYX, and we work with Lionheart Recruitment, so the employer side of the brand is part of how we think.
How to start
Take the free Brand Health Check for a score across four areas in about three minutes, or book a call with a partner.
Common questions
What is different about marketing an engineering firm?
The buyer is technical, the sale is slow and the decision is about risk. Marketing that works for consumer brands does not transfer. Engineering firms need clear positioning, proof of capability and senior people who are visible in their field.
We get all our work from referrals. Do we need a brand?
Referrals are a sign the work is good. They are also a ceiling: growth depends on who your directors know, and the business is worth less to a buyer if the relationships leave with the owners. A brand makes the firm known beyond its existing network.
Do you work with small engineering consultancies?
Yes. We can start with a single focused project, such as positioning or a website, with a clear scope agreed before work begins.
Who will we deal with?
The partners, Emile de la Rey and Dan Hardy. Dan is a civil engineer by training.