#168 spread the word

Last summer, I was in Florida and got a car decal from the "world famous" Ron Jon Surf Shop in Cocoa Beach.  I made a token purchase there to remind my sister of one of the funniest moments of all our travels that occurred there years ago.  And in my bag were two car decals.  For free.

I did not put them on my car, but since that time I have noticed dozens of others who did.  The back of the decal reads "Congratulations!  You are now the proud owner of a Ron Jon Sticker -- the coolest and most recognized sticker on the planet.  This Ron Jon Sticker won't make your car get better gas mileage, but will say something about who you are and how you live your life.  So stick it on.  Enjoy it!  Be sure to honk and give a friendly wave the next time you see someone with a Ron Jon sticker on their car, RV, moped, motorcycle or riding lawnmower.  You've got it, now flaunt it!"  

What a great idea to allow people to promote their business for them -- far more broadly than they could pay to do and with more impact.  They make you feel special by having one.  They come right out and encourage you to use it.  And then they build loyalty to their brand by having you honk when you see others.  All this from a surf shop.

What have you done lately to encourage your fans to spread the word and to strengthen their bonds?  Have you given your best customers/clients/students free merchandise lately -- or did that happen only in the courting process?  I am a huge fan of promotional products -- they should be plentiful, widely distributed, boldly imprinted and free.  Make it easy for others to evangelize for you.

-- beth triplett
leadershipdots.blogspot.com
@leadershipdots
leadershipdots@gmail.com