How to Drum Up Word of Mouth

Advertising copy may entice and editorial coverage may persuade, but word of mouth (WOM) recommendations can be more effective than both of those put together. Think about the times you've used WOM to hire a contractor, pick a new restaurant or choose a vacation destination. Chances are you've made some of those decisions based solely on an enthusiastic thumbs-up from a trusted friend.

If you're not using the power of WOM to enhance your business or that of your clients, you're missing out. Spike Jones with Brains on Fire claims you can get a WOM campaign rolling with minimal training.

You can do this today:

Reach out to customers. Write thank-you notes to a dozen customers. Not only will they appreciate this unexpected gesture, they'll remember it the next time someone asks about the product or service you provide.

This takes a little longer to implement:

Put the word on the street. Assemble an ad hoc advisory board of 10 or 15 friends/colleagues who believe in you and what you do. Discuss your challenges and invite their critiques. As you bring them into the fold, you'll cultivate a committed group of evangelists for your business.

In short: It doesn't matter whether you start your WOM campaign with the help of friends or through customer outreach. Just start.

Source: Word of Mouth Training Wheels in MarketingProfs' Daily Fix.

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