Business Blogging: Get Your Customers Talking About You

My parents are coming to visit us in New York next week and I was searching for something extra special to do with them.  To my delight I found a 100 year old sailboat, the Ventura, that goes on sunset sails in New York Harbor, leaving from North Cove Marina right near our apartment.  I was even more delighted to find that the Captain had a blog!! 

He wrote a wonderful entry about the summer, the boat, and his pride in being part of the history of the Ventura. 

On July 08, 2008…….Then nothing more……Just the one charming, well-written entry.

I’m sure that Captain Pat, like many small business owners is very busy and doesn’t feel he has time to blog.

But his entry was interesting, heartwarming, and appealing.  There are other boats that sail out of North Cove but as far as I can tell his is the only one with even an attempt at a blog – and it definitely made me feel more connected and inclined to use his services.

I really wanted to read more about the Ventura and the experiences (to ensure my parents would have a good time!) So I did a little searching and found that the dear Captain’s customers have been doing some blogging for him!!

I found this recommendation of a pleasurable Ventura cruise.

And this one.

And this entry of an engagement celebration on board the Ventura.

And last but not least I found two youtube videos

Cruising Vessel Ventura with amazing footage of the Statue of Liberty

Sail Ventura in Upper New York Bay with shots of the boat and this year’s lighted waterfalls in New York Harbor

So what’s the lesson?

Even if you don’t have time to blog – remember that your customers might!

And if you provide a pleasurable experience for them, they will write about you! 

With Electronic Word of Mouth Marketing – everyone can be talking about your wonderful business!!  

 (except, shhh!! don’t tell my mom and dad - it will ruin the surprise!)

photo credit: Diametrik