The power of reviews and recommendations
A marketing tip posing as a hack for home-based business owners
Over the past two weeks, My Home Office Hacks has added more than 80 new subscribers How did that happen? While I’ve been fairly proactive in asking people to subscribe, it was recommending several Substack publications that really made the difference.
Part of that was the publishers of those publications reciprocating with a recommendation of My Home Office Hacks. Yet there’s a little bit more to the story than that. It goes to the very heart of reviews, specifically Google reviews, and testimonials.
We tend to think of testimonials only in terms of the recipient of the flattering words or the five-star Google Review. It’s also an incredible way to promote your business as well. Particularly if you can incorporate your business and what you do in the testimonial. For example:
“In writing My Home Office Hacks, I focus on people who work from home or have a home-based business. Many of those folks do not have a dedicated IT staff or resource. Rick’s Tech Tips Newsletter provides usable, practical IT pointers a non-techie can understand to keep their computers and other electronics humming.”
Yes, the testimonial talks about Rick’s newsletter. Yet it also contains something about mine. This opportunity exists in every testimonial or review opportunity.
People who work from a home office, particularly business owners seem to have more of an opportunity to give reviews and testimonials. Typically, we’re the boss and we don’t have to ask permission or go through compliance. That’s a powerful thing. So don’t think when somebody asks you for a Google review or testimonial that you are doing them a favor. If you word it right, it can be a win for you as well.
Plus, the beauty of the review or testimonial is you don’t have to wait to be asked to give one. Just do it and see what comes your way beyond a reciprocal review or testimonial.
WFH Mobility
Last week, My HOH talked about providing some shade for when you have a yearning to work outside or in bright rooms. If you’re taking it outdoors or perhaps feel like working in bed (not my first choice of what to do there) you may want to invest in a Lap Top Bed Tray Table.
This one--Laptop Bed Tray Table, SAIJI Adjustable Bed Desk for Laptop, Foldable Laptop Stand with Storage Drawer for Eating, Working, Writing, Gaming, Drawing (Black,X-Large)--provides a lot more than a flat surface you have to balance on your lap. It literally stands on its own two legs. Check it out.
Inspiring quote of the week
Just think happy thoughts and you’ll fly.
— J.M. Barrie, “Peter Pan”