Word of Mouth is the Way to Go- James Gerdsen

Word of mouth is the biggest marketing tool a company has. There are ways to make word of mouth work for your business. Use a few methods tried and trusted by James Gerdsen, CEO of Apollo Heating and Cooling to spread the word and increase sales.

Find an organization that is in a related industry or shares a similar mission statement. Volunteer or donate to the organization.  James Gerdsen is in the heating and cooling business and donates time, materials and money to Habitat for Humanity. James Gerdsen is also a contributor and active member of the Cincinnati Preservation Association. Both of these organizations deal with housing, the same as James Gerdsen’s company. They share congruent mission statements to serve passionately. Below are a few ideas for charities based on business or industry:

-Restaurants or Grocery Stores: local food banks or soup kitchens

-Clothing Retailers: Goodwill or homeless shelters would benefit

-Education or Content: literacy programs, exchange programs, educating women in foreign countries

-Business Owners: free seminars or mentoring

-Banks: free seminars on fiscal responsibility and saving for the future

The possibilities are endless. Reach out to the community and find key organizations that relate to the business and its care values. Share openly about the company’s ongoing work with local organizations. James Gerdsen recommends posting it on the website, under headings like “Proud Sponsor of” and “Number of Dollars Donated.” Hang a plaque in the store for all the customers to see. Consider investing in a lawn sign. The idea is to get people talking and asking questions. Positive buzz will be generated. The business’s name will being associated with charity, selflessness and community dedications. All the positive attributes associated with volunteering will be associated with the business, says James Gerdsen.

James Gerdsen has also found that customers are more likely to spend and return if they know a portion of their money is reinvested in the community. They are willing to spend a little more on local goods and services if it is for a good cause. That is why it is vital to market the company’s volunteer work relentlessly and to continue the community involvement.  The business will grow by word of mouth.