The Power of the Word-of-Mouth
The definition of word-of-mouth is the passing of information from person to person using oral communication.
This is arguably the most powerful organic and the oldest marketing tool. We make decisions based on others’ thoughts and experiences. As consumers, we love to discover new things and experience them for ourselves. But beforehand we take in recommendations. Whether it be a place, a cup of coffee, a vibe, a trail to hike, a dish, a view, a life hack, we generally hear about those special insights from the ones we know and trust.
Build a Good Reputation as a Business
We also take into account the word of strangers. That’s why I urge my clients to claim a business listing. If your business has been “on the map” so to speak Google or Bing may already have you pinned. If so, you can claim a business like yours with ample proof that is your business.
There is a big benefit of claiming your business listing. Once you’ve done it it can help receive more attention through customer reviews. Ideally, you have good reviews and not too many poor ones. Believe it or not the negative ones may not always deter people. You can never guarantee satisfaction from everyone. But you can encourage your patrons that are pleased with your service or product to leave you a review. It’s all about building that good reputation in town.
Superlatives
Another fabulous and organic way to build a good reputation is to be on the “Best of” list in your town/city. The public can cast a vote for their favorite nominees. The results can be such a great way to rope in more business.
I have personally been through so many hairdressers over the past 11 years in Jackson, Wyoming. My hairstylist has ranked Gold and Silver for the Best Hairstylist in Best of Jackson Hole for many years in a row and for good reason – she’s fabulous with hair!
Influencers
Social media has changed the way we share our experiences. Capturing photos and videos instantly, geotags, and hashtags help tell the story. Word-of-mouth takes on a whole new meaning when it’s shared on social media. You can pay influencers to share your product or place of business with their followers. This direct influence can help capture even more potential clients.
Influencer marketing is a kind of social media marketing that uses plenty of help through endorsements and products mentioned by influencer individuals. These individuals have a dedicated social following and are considered experts in their particular area or niche.
Henny Yeshanew, Entrepreneur.com
Through influencers, word-of-mouth is proven to still work but just on hyperdrive. This more dynamic way to story tell is faster and proven to take flight with metrics to back it up. The metrics are measuring engagement, clicks, views, and ROI. You may think that the more followers the more influencer has the better but that’s not necessarily the trend of the Influencer appeal is heading. In 2022, the trend of micro-influencers can be considered experts in their particular area or niche can generate a more reliable return.
Some actionables, the next time you get a haircut:
- Find the salon on social and give them that “social currency” with a follow. Mention them in an Instagram story with your new hairdo.
- Leave a review on their Google listing. Share a photo if you are able.
- Share the “word-of-mouth” by telling a friend your experience.
Coincidentally, I just got a haircut from a new hairdresser in Victor, ID near our new house and I am so pleased. I will do ALL 3 because Mandii Caldwell with Joy Daniels Salon did a fabulous job, she’s professional and friendly. And from one fellow mama and female entrepreneur, I am all about amplifying her and her business.
Interested in learning more about the power of word-of-mouth, let’s get coffee to chat about other ideas.
