Think about the last time you went out for dinner or took a detour to a new coffee shop on your way to work. You probably checked it out because a friend told you to. Ever think about the experience you had where you were so excited to tell someone about it? Actually, 72% of people get news from friends and family. These are all examples of word of mouth marketing (WOMM) and it’s extremely helpful for your business.
What Is Word of Mouth Marketing?
WOMM is, “when a consumer’s interest in a company’s product or service is reflected in their daily dialogues.” It’s basically free advertisement for your product or service and it’s all thanks to your customers. Since so many people post and communicate over social media platforms, WOMM doesn’t just happen in person – it happens over social media, too.
Why Is It Important?
WOMM, especially in the day and age of technology, is extremely important because it doesn’t stop after one interaction. It creates a domino effect. If you post about a restaurant, your friend will repost it, their friends will see it, who’s family will see that, and so on. 83% of Americans say that word-of-mouth recommendations from friends or family members make them more likely to purchase that product or service.
How Do You Use Word of Mouth Marketing?
Rather than collecting followers, start connecting with them! WOMM will only work if your customers really believe in your service and company. Be engaging and interactive with your customers online. Establishing a connection with them is important to boost your WOMM. The more passionate they feel about you, the more likely they are to refer your product to a friend.
How Do You Increase Its Potential?
- Create a Trigger – triggers are little cues, whether it be an image, song, or environment that reminds customers of your brand. Jonah Berger, a Wharton marketing professor, says, “what immediately comes to mind when someone says peanut butter? Was it jelly? In this case, peanut butter acts almost like an advertisement for jelly.”
- Make Yourself Interesting – don’t be afraid to show your authentic self and voice to your customers! Think about what your customers want to see. Whether it’s behind the scenes videos or live streaming videos, make yourself look fun and interesting.
- Provoke Emotion – people are more likely to talk about your service if they have an emotional attachment to it. You’re not going to share an “OK” experience with your friends, are you? Give your customers an outstanding experience they will want to share with others. Humans respond to emotions – provoke something that makes people feel happy, makes them laugh, or something that tugs at the heartstrings.
When used efficiently, word of mouth marketing is a great way to attract new customers. The good news is, it’s completely free to try out, too! If you aren’t sure where to start, give Paragon Marketing Group a call. Our crew has all the right tools to help you out. (262) 443-9092
