Let’s face it: the most effective form of advertising is word of mouth advertising. People will take note of any business that their friends and peers speak positively or negatively about. Businesses can grow easily and cheaply based entirely on word of mouth advertising and as members of the military family; we know that this is true. We keep small businesses alive around the installations that we are serving at simply by telling someone how good we are treated in these establishments.
For example, how many times did you go to a restaurant because your friend or buddy said the food was good? How many times did you not go to a restaurant, no matter what type of military discount they offered because a friend or buddy said the food was awful? Our community relies heavily on word of mouth because we move so often, we rely on our peers for up-to-date information and we know that everything you read in “the base paper” may not be what it seems. Have you ever had a sponsor at a new base tell you how crappy the base was only to find out it wasn’t the base that was crappy but the sponsor? But, you believed everything they said when you first arrived, didn’t you?
So, how do you generate positive word of mouth advertising? Ensure that the shopping experience meets or exceeds your clients’ expectations. Last week, we talked about being client-centric in your approach to business. I’m going to restate this principle again this week because it is one of the nine core competencies of business. Be client-centric. Focus on your customer, give them what they want at a price they can afford and do it as well as you can.
Then, ask for referrals. Make this a standard part of your business systems. Ask them to refer your business or service to their friends that may be interested in what you are offering.
Start a customer appreciation program. Show your customers how much you appreciate their business by rewarding them in some way; it doesn’t have to be huge. People like to feel appreciated, valued and treasured. Make your customers feel this way and you will never have a “bad month.”
Don’t be afraid to give away “free” samples. While I do not coach for free, I am always happy to share knowledge and information with my community. I am happy to give a way “samples” of my knowledge by blogging here on my site. I am overjoyed when I am able to be of service to my readers because you know that I truly care about you and want you to succeed.
So, there are some ways to generate some “buzz” about your business.
Remember that Team Scorpion is here to help veterans, service-disabled veterans and military spouses build the business of their dreams. We create “bullet-proof battle strategies for your veteran owned small business success.” And, if you know anyone who could benefit from working with us, please refer them to this website, forward them a copy of our newsletter or send them to my Facebook page.
Deanna Wharwood’s passion is to help veterans, service-disabled veterans and their dependents create the systems they need to start and grow businesses from their first dollar to six-figures. Unlike other coaches, consultants, mentors and trainers, she is a veteran who successfully transitioned from military life to entrepreneurship. Learn more about Deanna – The Veterans’ Coach and how she can help you!
