Viral Loop: When Partnering Means Getting Others to Share Your Product
Without advertising, several businesses have attracted millions of users by getting individuals to share their “product” with others.
This effect was dubbed a Viral Loop and described by Adam Penenberg who just came out with a book by that name. Like Tuperware, Ning and others, here’s how you, too, may be able to reward people who spread the word about your business in this new New Normal world. For example, adapt your version of the tools that Penenberg is using to boost book sales.
1. Can you tie an iPhone application to use of your service or product?
After Raven Zachary enabled Obama’s supporters to follow the campaign via the iPhone app he created, a whole iPhone-based business sprang up for him and his colleagues, one that begat a cluster of such businesses in the Silicon Forest.
Perhaps one of these firms could build a client-attracting app for you, as they have for zipcar, Urbanspoon, Rick Steves’ travel guides and others. Each app added convenience, versatility and/or excitement or other value for customers.
2. Can your customers gain bragging rights and/or attract clients to their business by becoming involved in your company or cause’s Facebook group? Then create the widget to enable them to succeed – with you.
3. Praise your vendors and sources of ideas as cherished partners - Penenberg does with Marc Andreessen, StudioE9 and others – and they are more likely to return the favor.
Andrew Chen takes you through the client-attracting steps of a Viral Loop.
