I’m a firm believer in building your practice or small business through word of mouth. When people are talking about your services, you can capitalize on that and bring in new clients. Through your exceptional service, and professional attitude, you’ll keep them as clients for a long time.
Where do you start?
- By helping others. Network like crazy and find out how you can best be of service. Ask others how you can help them. Is there a place you can volunteer your services? Can you fill in for others on vacation? Does a peer need a partner to work a trade show?
- Follow up with everyone you meet. Make phone calls, send notes, say thank you when others have helped you. Stay in the forefront of your community.
- Ask for referrals and offer a small gift or coupon. The gift shouldn’t be used as incentive to refer, but as a simple thank you.
Networking and word of mouth shouldn’t be your only tool to build your practice, but use it in addition to the other marketing strategy you have.
And don’t give up too soon. Hang in there! Building a practice can take a little time.
Additional Resources:
Word of Mouth Marketing: How Smart Companies Get People Talking
