New customers can be powerful talkers. The first-time experience is a great conversation primer, but you shouldn’t rely on that alone to create word of mouth. Your job is to put something in their hands that reminds them, motivates them, and makes them look good.
Three great things you can do:
1. Give them a personalized coupon
2. Give them something to take with them
3. Give them VIP treatment
1. Give them a personalized coupon
Helping new customers look good to their friends is a great reason to talk. Try a personalized coupon — something they can share with friends to help them out. A great example is from Road ID, who send new customers a personal coupon code that can be used up to 20 times in 30 days. It’s effective because there’s no awkwardness for the talker (it’s a pure gift to share) and there’s an expiration date (you’re inspired to forward it right away).
2. Give them something to take with them
Never, ever let a customer — especially a new customer — walk out your door without offering something to start a conversation with. Think like the restaurant that insists new customers take a few slices of cake back to the office to share. Or, try putting a box by the register filled with branded stickers, magnets, and post cards along with a big sign that says “Take one!” — and see how many conversations you start.
3. Give them VIP treatment
Have you ever eaten at Rudy’s BBQ? Not only is it absolutely fantastic food, but it’s packed with word of mouth marketing lessons (if you’re headed to SXSW, it’s a must). The first thing they’ll ask you is, “Have you ever eaten at Rudy’s before?” If the answer is no, they’ll announce your arrival to the entire restaurant. You’re then invited to sample everything on the menu before deciding on what to order. Not only do you feel like a VIP, but you’re sure to order what you like best (which means you’ll probably tell someone about it).
