Gatekeeper
Definition
A person who controls access to something, for example via a city wall or gate, but in a marketing context, someone who controls information flow.
Deep Dive
In a marketing and sales context, a gatekeeper is an individual who controls access to a target decision-maker, information, or resources within an organization. They act as a crucial filter, often tasked with screening communications, scheduling appointments, and managing the flow of data, ensuring that only relevant or prioritized matters reach high-level executives or key personnel. While they may not be the ultimate purchasing authority or end-user of a product or service, their influence on the sales process is significant as they can either facilitate or impede progress.
Examples & Use Cases
- 1An executive assistant who screens all incoming calls and emails for a CEO
- 2An IT manager who evaluates new software solutions before passing recommendations to the department head
- 3A procurement officer who controls the list of approved vendors for an entire company