Growing your business through positive word-of-mouth

Amanda Saunders, founder of Winnipeg, Manitoba-based EPIC Dealer Solutions Ltd. built her business around making connections. Unfortunately, independent car dealerships are unable to garner financing for more than half of their customers. EPIC Dealer Solutions helps independent dealerships of various sizes develop and maintain relationships with lenders so their customers can afford to purchase vehicles.

Amanda had these tips to share with other entrepreneurs on how to make connections and build a strong network:

Remember the value of word-of-mouth. Encourage your clients to talk about you to others and be open to opportunities to make and receive introductions. From word-of-mouth alone, EPIC grew its lender portfolio significantly, increasing from five dealership clients in Manitoba to over 300.

Always provide great service. Although word-of-mouth can be an excellent marketing tool, it should not be taken for granted. Always strive for 100% satisfaction for every client.

Perfect your pitch. Perfect your elevator pitch early on and know your facts well. If you are asked questions and can’t answer them, you risk losing the deal, but if you can control the conversation and respond with direct and concrete answers, you’ll be positioned for success.