7 Simple Methods to Generate Word of Mouth Marketing for Your Small Business


 

Word of mouth marketing brings in 5 times more sales than paid media does. Think about it, FIVE TIMES more. So wouldn't you agree that word of mouth marketing is highly necessary to promote your small business? This incredibly effective form of advertising can't be bought with even the largest marketing budget. Yet, it can influence a mass audience you'd never expect.

You can think of word of mouth marketing much like the suggestions you hear from your friends about a recent restaurant experience they had. In fact, 92% of consumers trust recommendations from friends. At this point you may be wondering how to generate word of mouth marketing for your own business. Well, here are 7 effective and simple ways that will help you do just that:

1. Build Your Brand

In order to create a company that people will talk about, you need to focus on building a brand unique and memorable enough to be talked about. This will create a loyal following and the word of mouth marketing will take off on its own. If you want your clients to promote your brand, put the effort where it counts. 

2. Get On Social Media

Social media will be your best friend when it comes to word of mouth marketing. Reach out to customers, solve problems, create a direct connection with your followers, and build your referral network one person at a time.

3. Talk To Your Past Customers

You have a database of buyers whether you’ve been in business for six months or six years, so use it to your advantage. Reach out to those happy customers and ask them for testimonials. Post those positive reviews on your website and social media profiles for others to see.

4. Create A Referral Program

Motivate your clients to promote your business to others by rewarding them for their referrals. While they generate word of mouth advertising for your business, they as well can get something good out of it. Create a referral program where they can accumulate points, enjoy a discount, or win a prize.

5. Provide Excellent Customer Service

Think about the last time someone offered you an incredible customer service experience, was it memorable for you? Did you tell others about it? When you deliver world-class service to your clients, they will certainly take notice. The easiest way to generate word of mouth advertising is by providing an experience they can’t find anywhere else.

6. Tackle Customer Complaints Right Away

Unsatisfied customers are part of the game. Nothing will ever be perfect. However, the right approach can make all the difference for an unhappy customer. Being proactive about a customer's issue can actually turn them into a loyal brand ambassador so don't ignore it.

7. Gather Plenty Of Reviews And Testimonials

As mentioned before, you're going to want to make those positive reviews past clients have given you available for the public to see. After every experience with a happy client, ask them for a brief review of their experience with you. The more reviews you collect, the more credibility you'll build for your business.