Successful Marketing - Ideas For Business Pros | The Easiest Way To Get New Customers Without Spending A Penny

The Easiest Way To Get New Customers Without Spending A Penny

kimhillman | 07 January, 2009 13:28

Do you know what the easiest way to get a new customer is? Surprisingly, it's not through any of the usual marketing methods and it doesn't cost you a cent. The easiest way to get a new customer is through a referral from a current customer.

People like to do business with people they know, like and trust. But, your prospects don't know you yet. They don't know whether they like you and they may not trust you yet, because they have no relationship with you. Your current customers, however, know you, like you and trust you, and they are known, liked and trusted by their family, friends and peers. For this reason, it makes sense to get as many referrals as you can from your current customers because their nod of approval will be far more convincing to their circle of influence than any marketing you could do to that same group of people.

Many businesses overlook the opportunity to get referrals, and instead put all of their efforts into reaching their market through advertising. This is a mistake. While advertising is important, who would you be more willing to believe about trying a new product - an ad or an enthusiastic family member or friend?

Getting referrals is as simple as asking for them, and the best time to do that is when your customer's transaction with you is completed. Ask them if they are happy with your service or product. If they are, that is the time to ask them for a referral. Then, you can send a friendly letter to the people your customers refer to you, telling them that their friend or family member (your customer) thought they would like to know about your products and services.

And if you need help writing that friendly sales letter, give Up & At 'Em a holler!

Up and at 'em!

Kim Hillman

Up & At 'Em Publications

www.upandatempublications.com