How do I get people to buy anything I’m selling? It’s easy…by word of mouth. Getting out and talking to people offline is still relevant today. I know with social media being a big part of our lives we feel the need to sell only on social media but have you tried getting off of social media and selling to people in real time? I tend to remember people who speak to me more than the internet folks (especially those who never speak or don’t speak often). Word of mouth isn’t a lost art it’s just something that I think a lot of people have forgotten. Harnessing word of mouth can be marketing can be easy and here are a few tips.
We live in the age of social media power where something can go viral and reach millions in a matter of minutes. Although this could make for some great business, it’s not as easy to connect with people to create long-term and consistent/returning clients. As soon as the hype about one viral piece of content dies down, there is no guarantee that it will ever happen again. Therefore, social media shouldn’t be the only means of business building that’s focused on. Word of mouth is a great way to build your business whether it’s online based or locally based. Although it might take more effort, it creates a more permanent draw and personal connection to your business that may be more difficult online.
One of the best ways to spread your business by word of mouth is by networking. Just like you would network online, networking in person can offer a valuable component to spreading the word about your business. Go to local events related to the niche your business matches. Create events yourself, as this is a great way to bring notice to your company. Talk to people when getting gas, strike up random conversations with your cashier. Every moment you’re talking to someone is a chance to network.
Having a “pitch” is another great way to spread your business by word of mouth. Everyone gets asked what they do for a living, often. Having a superb response to this question can draw people in. Don’t just give your title or the name of your business as a response. Say what it is your business offers instead and then follow with the name of the business and your title within that business. You would be surprised how many clients you drive away simply because you didn’t offer the right information about what it is your business offers.
Always be ready to follow up with people. Draw in their interest, hook them, and then keep up their interest. However, don’t be too salesman-like about it. Genuinely be interested in them as a person and simply check in or follow up from time to time. This will allow you to follow up and keep in touch while continuing to build that personal connection that is missing with online businesses.
