Getting More Business through Word of Mouth
Every time I watch a T.V. commercial or see an advertisement making its presence felt bang in the middle of a highway, I wonder, wouldn’t brands be the happiest if word of mouth did the job of promoting their products and services? But hang on, I am not saying ‘no’ to advertisements (I love watching them), but what I am saying is what can be better than your customers doing the talking for you.
I have seen the concept of word of mouth work wonders for many businesses. Trust me. But if you are not fully convinced about it being a powerful weapon, then check out the survey results released by Search Engine Land between January 15 and March 1, 2012 and you will know what I mean. As high as 77% recommended a local business through word of mouth. Now does it make sense to give word of mouth a shot for your business too?
If you want to know how, then I have done the research for you. Simply read it and you are good to go. The best part is these are really simple, easy to implement strategies.
- Give your customers a unique experience
Your customers have spent their money, so they will certainly talk about their experience. If you give them a ‘wow’ experience, something different or extra, then they will go gaga about you. For example, if you are into beauty business, then how about giving them free samples of products to try? Or if you are into chocolates and confectioneries, then maybe you could give your customers something complimentary after they have made purchases exceeding a certain amount. Or simply reward them for promoting you, because it is your business that they are promoting, and they would expect an incentive in return.
- Attract them to make them stay in touch
After you have given your customers the ‘wow’ experience, what are the ways to keep in touch with them? Through your Facebook and Twitter pages? Of course. Ask them to ‘like’ you and ‘follow’ you there. Make them feel special (wish them on their birthdays/anniversaries and that can do the trick), present them with a discount or offer. What else? Invite them to your products promotions and launches. Get creative guys! Keep finding new ideas so that your customers keep coming back to you.
- Engage People
You have given your customers that unique experience; they have loved you so far and are in touch with you too. Great going! Now isn’t it obvious that you want to keep them engaged? How do you do that? Here are a few things at the top of my mind; like sharing some great content with your fans and followers to begin with. Do the same with your email subscribers. Got a blog? Engage blog readers and your other contacts online. Ask them questions, take their opinion, and engage them in a discussion. People like that.
So here it is. The golden rule to get more business is out.
For now I leave you with these, and will be back buzzing with something fresh soon.
labs Initiative