Guest post by Jamie Claycamp, Executive Director of Holton/Jackson County Chamber of Commerce
The old adage, ‘Bad news travels fast,’ couldn’t be more true in the modern world.
This applies to businesses through the well known fact that ‘a negative experience is twice as likely to be shared.’
In the Chamber of Commerce realm I think it is equally as applicable!
What about for our community? The local news reports about hot topics: criminal activity, political squabbles and economic woes.
We need community ambassadors spreading good cheer!
I purpose we create a culture that boosts the positive experiences being shared. I’m not proposing we place thank-you-grams in cutesy mailboxes around town.
I challenge (starting with members, but extending to the community) locals to share their positive local experiences.
Whether it be a strangers kindness, a neighbors compassion, an exceptional customer service experience, a great deal or just a favorite product from a local place.
Help raise awareness about the positive aspects of our corner of the world. After all, ‘there is no advertising better than word of mouth advertising.’
Testimonials from trusted friends do not just apply to the latest beauty trend or best fishing spot.
Social media is a powerful tool for businesses-and to spread this message! Facebook is trying to figure out how to squeeze a profit out of this tool through paid advertising.
But it is free through customers, and probably more valuable!
Satisfied customers armed with social media amplify the power of this tool. Along with the positive message they’re sending out, they can also tag a location and business page offering the potential for conversation to likes. Likes translate into future opportunities.
Our organization’s mission statement includes promoting “economic growth and a positive community image”. I think this falls into both categories. So how do we facilitate this culture?
- Leading by example. Social influence is among the most powerful forms of influence.
- Rewards may aid in reinforcement.
- Provide a centralized location for them to share or tag photos.
- Let businesses help you promote this culture through signage or verbal prompts.
With some positive promotion and a targeted marketing campaign businesses can start earning a few new customers and communities a few more visitors.
Interested in this topic?
Here is a free chamber-specific resource for you…
