When you are exploring methods of advertising, don’t overlook the potential of viral marketing.
Viral marketing is a term to describe marketing done through word of mouth that spreads like wildfire throughout a community or group of people. Viral marketing doesn’t cost a lot of money, and 1 happy customer could easily turn 10 or 15 friends, family members or collegues into new customers for you.
So how do you get a viral marketing campaign started? This depends on your product and your target market. For instance, viral marketing for a new restaurant will be much different than one for a product oriented website.
A viral campaign for a new restaurant would be as easy as making a customer happy with their experience there. If this customer is happy with the level of service, the food, the prices etc. she’ll likely spread the word to others or even bring them to dine there… and almost everyone will try a place once, if nothing else. You might consider inviting local media to have a free
meal for coverage in the local newspaper.
A website is a little different, but once you’ve hit a groove the power of viral marketing can be truly amazing. Offer a free tool that is helpful to the customer or a limited time offer on a product that is in high demand.
The viral game is getting people to recognize the fact that you exist. Places like YouTube, and Google Video allow users to upload videos for no charge and should be considered as a viable way to promote your product or service online. This could be used for both a restaurant and a website if it was done cleverly.
Bottom line is, people will talk to other people.. so get the conversations and the powers of viral marketing working for you!