Here is where I get to brag about
my wife, Julie. It did not take
JS Design long to generate new business through the evangelism from past clients and well respected people/businesses catering to the wedding industry.
Her products are stunning, but her near perfect "close" rate of new business is a result of the excellent customer service and trust. That is what people are talking about. Her brand is so understood, that she does not get referrals that are not already a fit for budget and style for the custom invitations, wedding favors, etc.
As
this article in CNNmoney.com points out, "Get Customers to Sell For You" and measure referral results.
We do, and although JS Design is booked for the year, we continue to advertise and always will for recognition. Most clients come from
heart felt referrals as is the goal of any business and personal brand. Some people wonder why we would continue to invest in marketing when new business seems rather predictable. The answer is the advertising budget pays for itself quickly because we do it right and stick...when priced right and a good business model is in place, you see opportunities to do new things, so, we are building an online retail version to handle the unsolicited business via the web (among other things). That business too will succeed because of others selling for us.
The cost of new business from referral is doing a great job with excellent customer service every single time.
So if your small business or career goals are feeling a pinch in financing opportunities, keep in mind the best marketing you can get is customers who LOVE to talk about you! So even if you are just starting out, spend all your time building a brand of trust and adding significant value. People will talk! I guarantee it!
What examples/ideas can you share?