Word of Mouth: Generating Interest in your Biz

"If we should be blessed by some great reward, such as fame or fortune, it's the fruit of a seed planted by us in the past."

-Bodhidharma

"In the future, everyone will be world-famous for 15 minutes."

-Andy Warhol

Businesses need fame to thrive. But not just any fame. To develop a sustainable client base and last in the market, businesses need a positive reputation that distinguishes them from the competition. Seasoned entrepreneurs understand this. They also understand it's not enough to just put up a giant billboard or newspaper advertisements. They need a close

relationship with their clients and the public at large. Think about your circle of friends. Who among them do you trust more and depend on more? Most likely it's the friends you've spent more time with and developed a closer personal relationship. The same process applies in the business world. When clients are faced with a decision on which product or service to patronize they will go with the one that's generated the most satisfaction in the past. The one that's provided critical support and efficiency when it was needed: time-wise, money-wise and stress-wise.

Starting a business you need to nab positive attention early on. How do you go about doing this? Here are some basic, low-cost and effective strategies:

1. Value-added networking

Look up relevant networking events in your area; locations where you might be able to socialize with clients, investors and other people critical to developing your business. Make the most of your evening and day outings also. At a bar or restaurant relaxing with friends? Try to meet new people and give them your business card. Make them see the real you and the passion you have for your business goals and vision.

2. Takeaway promotion

Promotion works best when it's accessible. Business cards. Web pages. Mobile phone apps. Things people can carry in their pockets and access readily. Best of all, these are all things you can pass to people you meet on the fly. Meeting potential clients at a busy networking event? Give them your business card. Pull up your website on their smartphone. Invest in technology and accessible promotion like business cards.

3. Sampling the business

Along with accessible promotion comes accessible samples. Own a restaurant? Hold a food sample event at a local grocery store or food expo. Are you a graphic designer? Carry photos or copies of your design work. People enjoy visuals and they'll appreciate you taking the time to show them your hard work.

4. Condensing the message

Your business strategy should be condensed into one sentence. Write and rewrite this sentence. This will come in handy when you only have a minute or less to pitch your business . Make sure it captures your vision as well as your product. Also, write a sentence describing your current business position. Opening a new shop? Developing a new product? Let people know where you are and what's new with your business.

Ultimately the best promotional strategy is yourself. Leverage your interests, visions and personality to represent your business effectively. Because in the end, a business reflects the business owner. So go out there and market yourself!