Word-of-Mouth Is Still The Best Way To Reach People
I remember when the WOMM group launched in the early 2000’s. It championed a mix of digital marketing and good old-fashioned word-of-mouth (real people) comms. We gathered in a room with about 40 people in New York City and talked about the future. This was also around the time Twitter launched. One of my employees came back from a conference and showed me her first 140-character tweet. I had no idea what it was good for but being a creative I was mesmerized. Imagine publishing a whole book based on individual tweets.
Anyway. With all the digital capabilities these days – no doubt you are reading this because you saw a social media post, or an ad popped up based on your search terms,
It’s worth noting that 3rd party endorsement – Word-of Mouth is still one of the best ways to reach people.
Why am I telling you this? If you’re starting something new and you want others to learn about it, before you start planning your world-conquering program, get your friends and family on board. They will surely be your best evangelists, spreading the news from a place of goodwill, and knowledge. They know and love you, after all. They want to see you succeed, and they will be the best recommenders.
Here are few ways to rally the troops:
Bring a few people you trust (and who might have good networks) into your planning early, enlisting them for advice – and at least take a bit of it. No one likes taking the time to help and then find you tossed it all to the side
Test out your ideas on your friends early on so they can help you shape your new thing
Based on your friend-inspired tests, share back your learnings – often, to keep them in the loop
If you’re doing a product, be sure to share with early helpers gratis as a thank you
Publicly thank those that have helped – praise and gratitude go a long way
Take them on the journey – share relevant updates
Have you ever been on the other side, someone asked you for your help and advice? How did that go for you?