If you aren’t familiar with the phrase “viral marketing”, don’t worry because you’re probably already using the technique. As another way of saying “word of mouth”, viral marketing refers to the systematic, planned approach to spreading information from person to person.
With the costs of products and services on the rise today, and the unstable economy, it may seem that shrinking back on marketing your business is the answer to finding the balance. However, we’d like to suggest a few viral marketing strategies before you decide to make any marketing cutbacks.
1) Target a Defined Audience- The best way to determine the most successful approach is to define your client base. In an earlier blog, we talked about segmenting your e-mail list according to different client attributes. Sure, you may have their contact information, but do you know how they spend their vacations? What sort of hobbies are they interested in? Do they belong to a local social network? Remember, many times, it takes only one satisfied customer to be a strong advocate for you.
2) Engage Network Hubs- Who’s who in the area your business operates in/near? Recognize who the influential people are, and use opportunities such as trade shows, conferences, and the local media to grab the attention of prospective stakeholders.
3) Craft Creatively
- Put a fresh face on your business cards
- Offer incentives to customers who bring in other clients. (Use a simple link at the bottom of your e-mails informing clients about this.)
- Add “e-mail this to a friend” links on your website
- Offer occasional “freebies for family and friends” when clients stop by, or make an online purchase.
The beauty of viral marketing done correctly is watching its ripple effect. For small business owners, this approach to marketing has several strengths worth tapping into, if you haven’t already.
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