What is the most important way for your company to gain business?
WORD OF MOUTH
There’s nothing like it! When you receive a positive endorsement from an existing customer it makes an impression on future clients. Long-term customers know first-hand the benefits your product or service offers.
Referrals are the next best thing. Cultivate that positive feedback. Always focus on over-delivering to ensure a positive experience is had by all. Coupled with timely follow-up you will see the benefits.
Your goal should be to Build a great reputation. A great reputation cannot be bought or sold. It is something that must be earned.
Word of mouth is the recognition you receive for a job well done. A reputation built on trust takes time and effort. Trust is the foundation for your word-of-mouth marketing. When people speak highly about your product or service referrals will follow. When you deliver a service or product that’s exceptionally good it gets people talking.
The power of a rave review about you will speak favorably to your family, friends, and new potential customers. Social media is important- but be sure to have plenty of real-world interaction. Community is important. Being involved in community events helps to give a positive impression while spreading good feelings when people see you in person. When someone in your community needs your product or service, they will automatically think of the benefits you provide.
When a customer is happy with your services, they often aren’t afraid to shout it to the moon. Even better, if that customer is highly respected in your community their endorsement is a golden opportunity for your business to be profiled by a person who others trust and want to emulate.
When you have customers who are happy with your work, remind them that referrals are the best compliment. Ask them to share their experience with family and friends.
Always remember to give back. Sponsor a local sports team, or a local charity, or give your time to a worthy cause. Create a reputation that lets people know that you are working for a better world.
Don’t forget your customer once the job is over. Remember to send them a thank you. Ask if there is anything they need or anything that you might be able to do for them before their next visit. Continue the relationship. They will always think of you first. Stay in touch online or through email with an e-newsletter or holiday greetings.
Be responsive with your reviews. Answer every review. Let your customer know that you read it and that their time and opinion is valuable to you.
Post updates frequently to let clients know you are there — you don’t want prospects to see that your last interaction was six months ago. answer questions promptly. This is another way to show that you are focused and engaged with your clientele.
When you get a new customer, always ask how they heard of you. If it’s a referral from an existing client, be sure to thank that person for recommending you. Send them a thank you or drop a note in the mail. Let them know how important their referrals are to your business. and that you are happy they have had a good experience with your company. This can be done via a phone call, a handwritten note, or even a gift if they send you a substantial piece of business.
Remember a person’s endorsement will always hold more value to the person receiving it than a paid advertisement. So make sure your business is on all your customer's lips- make sure the word spreads about your business by WORD OF MOUTH.
MonicaBroussardAuthor.com
