A Seth Godin post discusses some of the reasons people are not always willing to spread the word about services or products despite being very happy with them. These are some great word of mouth marketing tips. Seth talked about the “risky step of referring something (or someone)” and ended with the following;
“Being really good is merely the first step. In order to earn word of mouth, you need to make it safe, fun and worthwhile to overcome the social hurdles to spread the word.” – Seth Godin
Word of Mouth Marketing Tips
Have a great story
One ingredient that makes it safe, fun and cuts down on social risks of is to not only be “really good” but to have a really good story. Spreading a story about over the top service or a super unique experience or product is much easier than making a recommendation or referral. It’s still word of mouth marketing but without the social risks – it’s just an interesting story that starts a conversation, without anyone’s reputation being put on the line.
Push the story
Make a video. Talk on social media. Tell the press. Reward best customers. Ask questions and encourage feedback. Notice that none of these word of mouth marketing tips involve “advertising” – stories need to be unique, surprising or new info to flow and spread naturally.
Encourage questions & conversations
Another way to cut down on social risks, keep it fun, and start conversations is to give people promotion stickers to display. Promotional stickers are a way to spread stories and stimulate word of mouth, without the “risk”. Personal “responsibility” for a referral or endorsement is eliminated if someone else is starting the conversation. You aren’t going out on a limb and volunteering information, the other person is taking the initiative (and responsibility) by asking. Perhaps, they don’t even ask about the sticker but the impression and subtle endorsement has been made.
With word of mouth stickers, there is also no “responsibility” for how the exposure may effect the promoted company other than sticker design. By putting custom stickers in your (and other) client’s hands, organizations have given everyone the green light to spread the word about their business or product. If the sticker and branding is subtle and not an obvious paid ad your “reputation” is intact. The stickers are not trying to scream at or strong-arm anyone, they just represent the badge and opinions of a fan that appreciates their connection and are happy to honestly talk about it with anyone that asks.
Stickers are of course not the only way to earn word of mouth marketing or spread stories. What other ways can make giving referrals fun, safe and worthwhile? Free samples? Throw a party? Hold a contest? Perhaps it’s time to brainstorm some slogans and/or some stories that can get people talking.
Jeff Nicholson is the founder and Creative Director at 
