| Many people see the term "viral marketing" and are | | | | example; people are allowed to hear your story on a |
| immediately pondering the endless possibilities of just | | | | more informal level, and then comment as they wish. |
| what this phrase could mean. Really, it's rather simple. | | | | By commenting back, you are creating a relationship, |
| Viral marketing online is merely word-of-mouth | | | | and a forum for communication that will drive traffic to |
| marketing. Online, this practice can be used through | | | | your website or product because they feel connected. |
| message boards, blogs, social networking sites, and | | | | -Open door policy. Let everyone in on your marketing. |
| other personal communication methods. Rather than | | | | You can't charge people for viral marketing, or they |
| taking a formal approach to marketing, viral marketing | | | | won't pay to see it. You need to keep it free of |
| aims to do a few different things: | | | | charges AND registrations. People want easy, free |
| - Attach emotion to the product or service that you're | | | | information with viral marketing online. Give it to them. |
| selling. It doesn't matter if it's extreme love or hate, or if | | | | Keep these tips in mind and your viral marketing |
| you want people to feel happy or sad about what you | | | | campaign will be a success in no time. It's a great way |
| say, you need to express a personal opinion with deep | | | | to reach those customers that might not be tuned into |
| commitment and dedication. | | | | your formal advertising. In the changing society, you |
| - Be different, be unexpected. People are almost | | | | have so many options for marketing that you might |
| immune to advertising because of the mass amounts | | | | not even realize are options. So many people are |
| of it available online. In order for you to be noticed with | | | | taking advantage of sites like MySpace, WordPress, |
| viral marketing online, you have to do something no | | | | and other social networking sites to advertise in a new |
| one will see coming. | | | | format. Formal advertising is great, but using a more |
| - Share stories. Don't advertise. That's left for traditional | | | | connected method can help you find customers you |
| marketing. You need to create a plot that people can | | | | never knew you could have. |
| attach emotion to, and relate to, so that they'll | | | | As always the secret behind any marketing tactic is |
| remember it and feel connected to your business and | | | | being able to track the results. If possible make sure to |
| your products. | | | | use custom links, install analytics software to track |
| - Comments accepted. You need to connect with | | | | results and improve them as needed. |
| people in a one-on-one environment. Take blogs for | | | | |