Firstly, Viral Marketing must not be confused with a “virus”. The word virus instills horror into most computer users. Viral Marketing is good and will definitely have no adverse affect on the operation of your computer.

You may have a fantastic product and a great website, but if no-one knows you exist, your efforts are totally wasted and your online dream business will just die.

This is where Viral Marketing comes into play.

What is Viral Marketing?

Viral Marketing, also known as Viral Advertising, is a technique used to increase the awareness of a product using the “word of mouth” or “tell a friend” system.

For example:

• Placing a form on a website asking the visitor to forward the information onto a number of friends in return for a free report or ebook etc.

• Using email to request recipients to pass on the message by signing up so many friends in return for a gift.

• Requesting recipients of a free ebook or report to pass it onto their subscribers. The ebook would have links directing readers to the author’s website and/or products.

Basically, businesses use this form of advertising to get others to spread the word and the best part is it is cost free or at very little cost. The only cause for concern if using email marketing is the ever dreaded “spam”. But if precautions are put in place, this need not be a drawback. A short disclaimer or basic instructions to the person forwarding the information on should eliminate any spam problems.

Advantages of Viral Marketing

Gaining publicity and awareness of a product, website and company are the major advantages of Viral Marketing. In addition, an increase in targeted traffic to the website means potential customers. Using imagination, good incentives and ingenuity means you can reach a huge number of people who would not otherwise know of your existence.

Used together with other methods of promotion as well as good website optimization, Viral Marketing has the ability to increase your website ratings. It is fast becoming the most effective form of advertising on the internet.

Probably one of the most successful uses of Viral Marketing is Microsoft’s Hotmail campaign. A free email service that advertises the product in every email sent out by Hotmail users.

Come up with an idea like Hotmail and reap the rewards.

 © Joan Maughan