Generating Word-of-Mouth for Your Business is one of the best ways for a small business to attract new customers. It requires no expensive and time-consuming advertising or marketing campaigns, and uses the most trusted spokesperson you could ever find for your business—a satisfied client.

But while the power of word-of-mouth can drive business to your door, even if your marketing budget is nonexistent, don’t expect a marketing miracle to suddenly appear. Contrary to popular belief, word-of-mouth is not something that just happens. It might work that way for a few businesses. But for most it is a phenomenon that you, the business owner, can actually take steps to create and nurture. And it generally does not happen quickly, but rather over time as word has a chance to spread.

STEP 1

To help generate word of mouth, create a simple marketing message that is easy for people to pass along. If it’s not simple, it won’t pass the test. But make it specific to a real benefit or need, not something vague or general. If you can, include success stories or testimonials from real customers. These can have a tremendous pass-along impact.

STEP 2

To stimulate word of mouth, you might also consider asking customers for referrals and recommendations. And put your networking efforts into high gear. If you network and get to know people in your community or industry, they will think of you when they need your product or service. Join networking groups and local business organizations, and attend conferences. Donating your products or services to local charities can generate goodwill and get your name around.

STEP 3

Consider introductory discounts or free samples. People are more willing to try a new product or service if they can do so economically. Many small companies have jump-started sales through carefully controlled giveaways.

Most important

Above all, perhaps recognize that people will spread the word if you treat them well. Providing superior customer service and addressing problems quickly will help generate the word of mouth that you want.

GET FREE HELP and ideas to grow the sales of your business.

LOCALLY - In the greater Cedar Rapids Area.
Contact SCORE "Counselors to America's Small Business." It is free and we help as long as you feel is necessary. Call 319-362-6405 ext 2005 or apply for ONLINE Counseling at www.scorecr.org .
NATIONALLY, you may contact: www.score.org or call 1-800/634-0245

GREAT READING : http://www.score.org/readingroom.html

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	Brought to you by the Cedar Rapids chapter of SCORE "Counselors to America's Small Business," a nonprofit association and resource partner with the U.S. Small Business Administration. SCORE is dedicated to entrepreneurship and the formation, growth and success of small businesses nationwide. Since 1964, SCORE has helped more than 7.5 million entrepreneurs. Copyright 2007. SCORE Chapter 227. All rights reserved. SCORE® Ch. 227 c/o SBA, 2750 First Avenue NE, Ste. 350, Cedar Rapids IA 52402-4831 (319) 362-6405 Ext. 2005 Office hours: 10-12 and 1-3 --NO APPOINTMENT NEEDED