Your B2B case study can be one of those two things:
- A compelling story that turns leads into loyal customers
- A generic “humble brag”, filled with out-of-context numbers, unnecessary details, and skip-worthy structure.
In this blog post, I’ll show you how to achieve the former and avoid the latter. I’ll include real-world examples and best practices to help your success stories impact your target audience.
B2B Case Study Structure for Maximum Impact
The structure of a good case study seems simple:
- Start with a relatable challenge your client faced
- Showcase your solutions to this challenge
- Describe the results of applying the solution
However, each element has its own caveats and traps you can easily fall into if you’ve never prepared a case study before. Let me break it down:
Find the Relatable Challenge:
You noticed I mentioned relatable challenges, right? This means you should NOT create a case study about a general pain point of your audience. The more specific you can make it, the better. For example:
❌ How HR_App Helped ThisCompany Avoid Paperwork in Leave Management
✅ How ThisCompany Reduced Lead Approval Time by 50% with HR_App
Dive into the specific challenges or pain points the client faced before working with you. Be detailed in your description, as this sets the stage for demonstrating the value of your solution. Some common challenges may include:
- Inefficient processes leading to lost time and revenue
- Difficulty reaching target audiences or generating leads
- Struggling to differentiate from competitors in a crowded market
- Lack of analytics to make data-driven decisions
Use this section to build empathy with your reader and demonstrate a deep understanding of the issues their business may be facing.
Show the Solution, Not the Product:
Once you’ve established the challenge, it’s time to examine how your product or service solved it.
Now, this part is NOT about your product’s features. Customers who read case studies are looking for the way your product made something happen for someone.
For example, instead of saying:
❌ HR_App streamlined the leave approval process through its easy-to-use interface
Say:
✅ By implementing HR_App’s automated leave management system, ThisCompany was able to significantly reduce the time it took to approve leaves, resulting in a 50% decrease in lead approval time.
Outline the key features and benefits of your offering that made it the ideal fit for the client.
Once done, walk through the onboarding and implementation phases, highlighting any unique strategies or approaches you used. This could include:
- Customized training sessions for the client’s team
- Integration with existing tools and platforms
- Ongoing support and optimization to ensure long-term success
Use this section to differentiate your solution from competitors and demonstrate your expertise in solving complex business challenges.
Describe the Results, But Keep it Real:
Finally, it’s time to reveal the results of implementing your solution. This is where you can showcase the tangible benefits that your client experienced. However, it’s important to be honest and transparent about the outcomes. Don’t exaggerate or make bold claims that can’t be backed up.
For example:
❌ HR_App saved ThisCompany millions of dollars in operational costs
✅ By using HR_App’s leave management system, ThisCompany was able to save $50,000 in administrative costs annually.
Use a combination of quantitative data and qualitative benefits to paint a comprehensive picture of the results achieved.
Quantitative data should be specific and tied to key performance indicators (KPIs) relevant to the client’s industry. For example:
- Increased website traffic by 50% within 3 months
- Reduced customer churn rate by 25% year-over-year
- Improved lead conversion rate from 2% to 5% in 6 months
Alongside the hard data, highlight the qualitative benefits that contributed to the client’s success. These can include:
- Enhanced team collaboration and productivity
- Improved customer satisfaction and loyalty
- Streamlined processes and reduced manual workload
Use bullet points or callouts to make these results easily scannable and digestible for readers.
By following this structure and keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating impactful B2B case studies that convert leads into loyal customers.
If you have the structure right, your case study is ~70% done. But that doesn’t mean it’s ready to be published on your website.
To ensure people:
- Be compelled to read it
- Actually read it
- Act upon it
We need to figure out a few more elements.
Start with a Compelling Title and Subtitle
A strong title and subtitle are essential for capturing the attention of potential customers. Your title should be benefit-driven, focusing on the client’s success story.
Use action verbs and specific language to convey the value your solution provided. For example, “How [Your Company] Helped [Client] Increase Sales by 30% in Just 6 Months”.
Here are some examples of compelling titles we found in real-life B2B case studies:
The subtitle should provide additional context and highlight key results. This can include the specific challenge the client faced, the industry they operate in, or the scale of the impact your solution had. Keep it concise but informative.
Here are some good subtitle examples from B2B providers:
Include Client Testimonials and Quotes
Include direct quotes and testimonials from the client to add credibility and authenticity to your case study. These firsthand accounts provide social proof and help build trust with potential customers.
When selecting quotes, look for specific praise that aligns with the key benefits and results you’ve highlighted throughout the case study. For example:
“[Your Company] has revolutionized the way we approach lead generation. Their solution not only drove a significant increase in qualified leads but also helped us better understand our target audience. We couldn’t be happier with the results!” – John Doe, Marketing Director at [Client Company]
Testimonials can be presented as standalone quotes or woven into the narrative of your case study.
Here are a few examples of both methods implemented:
Be sure to include the client’s name, title, and company to provide context and credibility.
💡 Pro-Tip: Always make sure your client is okay with sharing their photo or details like last name inside the case study. It’ll save you from an uncomfortable conversation after the case study is published and found by the client.
Enhance Your Solution Presentation with Visuals
Consider incorporating visuals to break up the text and make your solution more engaging. Some options include:
- Screenshots or product images showcasing key features
- Infographics illustrating the implementation process
- Charts or graphs highlighting performance improvements
Look at how Sanity is doing it in their case studies:
By following this proven structure and incorporating compelling elements like quantitative data, qualitative benefits, and client testimonials, you’ll create a powerful B2B case study that resonates with your target audience and drives conversions.
Now, we need to discuss an overarching element that ensures your case study is not just bragging, but a piece of content your customer enjoys reading:
B2B Customer Success Story: Essentials
Here’s a TL;DR of all the steps a B2B case study writer should follow:
- Focus on the client’s journey and how your solution helped them succeed
- Use engaging visuals and formatting to make the story easy to follow
- Conclude with a strong call to action to encourage readers to take the next step
Let’s dive into each one and explain it:
[H3] Focus on the Hero’s Journey
A compelling B2B customer success story should position the client as the hero who overcomes challenges with your help.
You might’ve already found a bunch of storytelling formulas shared on social media regularly. The thing is – all of them lead to the same results, so it doesn’t really matter which one you follow.
My personal favorite is The Story Cycle System, created by one of the GOATs of storytelling – Park Howell:
I like it mostly because it emphasizes the relation between the Hero (your customer) and the Mentor (you or your product).
Here’s how to incorporate a story into your B2B case study:
- Start by describing the client’s initial state, including their pain points and goals.
- Detail how your product or service helped them navigate obstacles and achieve their desired outcome.
- Emphasize the transformation the client experienced by working with your company.
- Highlight specific metrics or qualitative improvements that demonstrate the impact of your solution.
You can see this structure applied in many case studies from customer.io:
By focusing on the client’s journey, you create a relatable narrative that resonates with readers facing similar challenges.
Provide Relevant Background Information
Include necessary context about the client’s industry and specific needs to help readers understand the significance of their success.
This background information allows readers to better relate to the client’s situation and appreciate the value of your solution.
Briefly discuss the client’s:
- Company
- Target market
- Unique challenges faced
Explain how these challenges were holding them back from achieving their goals and why they sought out your help. By providing this context, you set the stage for showcasing the effectiveness of your product or service.
Conclude with a Strong Call-to-Action
End your B2B customer success story with a strong call-to-action (CTA) that encourages readers to take the next step in engaging with your company.
This CTA could be an invitation to contact your sales team, request a demo, or download additional resources related to the case study.
💡 Pro-tip: Make the CTA clear and specific, and ensure it aligns with the overall goal of the case study.
For example, if the purpose is to generate leads, the CTA might direct readers to a landing page where they can request more information or schedule a consultation.
You can use a call-to-action like:
“Ready to see how our solution can help your business succeed? Contact our sales team today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our services.”
This CTA is clear, specific, and aligned with the goal of generating leads.
Remember, a CTA can be more than just a button. If you’d like to capture the contact information of the case study reader, you can implement a contact form directly under your case study. This is how our client, VeryCreatives, is doing it:
Some extra steps for effective CTAs:
- Use action-oriented language to encourage readers to take action.
- Make the CTA prominent and easily visible.
- Use a sense of urgency to motivate readers to act quickly.
- Ensure the CTA is mobile-friendly and accessible on various devices.
By providing a clear next step, you help guide readers down the sales funnel and closer to becoming customers.
Case Study Best Practices for Optimal Results
This section will reveal how to:
- Tailor your case studies to your target audience for maximum impact
- Prioritize clarity and conciseness to convey your message effectively
- Promote your case studies across multiple channels to reach a wider audience
Tailor Your Case Study to Your Target Audience
When crafting a B2B case study, it’s crucial to consider the specific needs and interests of your ideal customer.
As I’ve mentioned before, you have to be specific about the pain points, challenges, and goals you describe in the case study. By doing so, you can create a case study that resonates with them on a deeper level.
For example, if your target audience is primarily concerned with improving efficiency, focus on how your product or service streamlined processes and saved time for your client.
If they’re more interested in cost savings, emphasize the financial benefits achieved through your solution.
By tailoring your case study to your target audience, you increase the likelihood of engaging them and converting them into customers. They’ll see themselves in the story you’re telling and recognize the value you can offer to their own business.
Prioritize Clarity and Conciseness
B2B case studies, like any B2B content, must be clear and concise. Your audience consists of busy professionals who don’t have time to wade through lengthy, convoluted content.
Avoid unnecessary jargon or excessive detail that can distract from the main points you’re trying to make. Instead, focus on the most important aspects of your case study, such as the challenges your client faced, the solution you provided, and the results achieved.
Consider the following improvements to the copy in your case study:
- Use short, simple sentences and paragraphs (Use Hemingway to identify stretched paragraphs)
- Break up text with headings, bullet points, and images
- Avoid industry jargon or explain it when necessary
- Focus on the most important information and cut out anything extraneous
By prioritizing clarity and conciseness, you make it easier for your audience to grasp the key takeaways from your case study and understand the value you offer.
Promote Your Case Studies Across Multiple Channels
A compelling case study is not compelling if nobody sees it. To maximize its impact, you need to promote it across multiple channels.
Start by featuring your case studies prominently on your website. Create a dedicated case studies page or section that’s easy to find and navigate.
Share your case studies on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. Engage with your followers and encourage them to share your content with their own networks. This can help expand your reach and attract new potential customers.
Include case studies in your email marketing campaigns. Highlight a recent success story in your newsletter or send a dedicated email featuring a particularly impactful case study.
💡 Pro-Tip: Don’t forget to leverage your case studies in sales conversations and presentations.
When speaking with potential clients, reference relevant case studies that demonstrate your ability to solve similar challenges. Use them as proof points to back up your claims and build trust with your prospects.
By promoting your case studies across multiple channels and leveraging them in sales, you can maximize their impact and drive more conversions for your business.
Understanding the Purpose and Benefits of B2B Case Studies
In this section:
- Case studies are powerful tools for converting leads into customers
- They demonstrate real-world success stories and build trust with potential buyers
- Case studies support the B2B buying process by addressing common objections and concerns
What is a B2B Case Study?
A B2B case study is a detailed account of how a business has successfully helped one of its clients achieve their goals or overcome a challenge. These case studies are typically used in the sales process to demonstrate the value and effectiveness of a company’s products or services.
Case studies differ from other types of content, such as blog posts or whitepapers, in that they focus on a specific real-world example rather than theoretical concepts or general best practices. They provide an in-depth look at how a company’s solution was implemented and the measurable results it achieved for the client.
Key Components of a B2B Case Study
A well-crafted B2B case study should include the following elements:
- Background information on the client and their challenges
- Details on the solution provided by the company
- Quantifiable results and benefits achieved by the client
- Testimonials or quotes from the client
By including these components, a case study can paint a comprehensive picture of how a company’s offerings can drive success for its clients.
Why Case Studies are Effective for B2B Marketing
Case studies are particularly effective for B2B marketing because they build trust and credibility with potential customers.
In B2B, buyers are often making high-stakes decisions that can impact their company’s bottom line. They need to feel confident that they are choosing a solution that will deliver results.
By showcasing real-world examples of success, case studies provide social proof that a company’s products or services are effective. They demonstrate that the company has a track record of helping clients achieve their goals, which can be far more persuasive than generic marketing claims.
According to a Gartner study, formats that affirm the value of the solution (such as case studies) increase the number of high-quality B2B deals by 30%.
How Case Studies Support the B2B Buying Process
Case studies play a crucial role in supporting the B2B buying process by addressing common objections and concerns that potential customers may have. For example, a buyer may be hesitant to invest in a new solution because they are unsure if it will deliver the promised results or integrate seamlessly with their existing systems.
Case studies can help alleviate these concerns by providing detailed examples of how the solution has been successfully implemented for other clients. They demonstrate that the company has experience working with similar businesses and has a proven track record of delivering results.
Moreover, case studies can help buyers envision success with the solution. By seeing how other companies have achieved their goals using the product or service, buyers can more easily picture how it could benefit their own organization. This can be particularly powerful in the later stages of the buying process when decision-makers are comparing different options and trying to visualize the potential impact on their business.
Addressing Specific Objections with Case Studies
To maximize the effectiveness of case studies in the B2B buying process, it’s important to tailor them to address specific objections or concerns that prospects may have. For example:
- If prospects are concerned about the cost of the solution, highlight case studies that demonstrate the ROI achieved by other clients.
- If prospects are worried about the complexity of implementation, showcase case studies that detail the smooth onboarding process and dedicated support provided.
- If prospects are unsure if the solution is a good fit for their specific industry, provide case studies featuring clients in similar sectors.
By strategically using case studies to address these common objections, B2B companies can more effectively guide prospects through the buying process and build confidence in their solution.
Harness the Power of Case Studies to Transform Your B2B Sales
B2B case studies are a potent tool for showcasing your solutions and converting leads into customers. By structuring your case studies effectively, focusing on the client’s journey, and highlighting measurable results, you can create compelling narratives that resonate with your target audience.
Tailor your case studies to address the specific challenges and needs of your ideal customers, using clear language and engaging visuals to convey your message. Promote your success stories across multiple channels to maximize their impact and reach.
Ready to leverage the power of case studies in your B2B marketing strategy? Start by identifying your most successful client partnerships and crafting narratives that showcase the value of your solutions. Share these stories with your sales team and incorporate them into your lead nurturing campaigns.
And if you need a handcrafting case studies that turn leads into customers, let’s discuss the best next step over a coffee:
