Previous post:

Next post:

Share your roadmap

September 19, 2008

If you want to keep fans engaged, let them know where you’re going. 

Nothing is more frustrating than being dependent on a product and never knowing when they are going to make it better. We’ve abandoned more than one vendor because "that feature will be out someday" just isn’t good enough. I can’t run my business based on your secret plans.

Use a blog or email newsletter to keep users updated on product features, fixes, and what you’ll be adding next.  Let them post their ideas and suggestions.

  1. Users will be thrilled to know how the product is going to improve.
  2. You turn frustration into anticipation.
  3. Your fans have something to talk about (more word of mouth!).

Here’s a great example from Wild Apricot: 1 2 3

(Apple gets away with the secrecy, but it still makes users angry. And you’re not Apple.)

Share This Post

Email to a friend:

Privacy: We won't save or reuse these emails.

Thanks for the word of mouth! Your message has been sent!

Please enter a valid email.

Your email failed. Try again later.

Comments

0 comments. Read them below or add one. (Trackback)

Comments on this entry are closed.

Previous post:

Next post:

Your Friendly Host

I'm Andy Sernovitz, a fairly helpful marketing guy. I write about word of mouth marketing, ethics, common-sense business, and entrepreneurship.

I'm an author, professional speaker, consultant, and teacher.

I look like this. I'm a Sagittarius. These are my turn-ons. The greatest album in the world. Full bio here...

I Teach Word of Mouth Marketing

GasPedal LogoYou can have amazing word of mouth.

Word of mouth marketing is something you can do very well. My company GasPedal will help you get started quickly, with simple-but-intense training, honest answers, and eye-opening ideas. GasPedal's fast, how-to marketing strategies are affordable, easy to execute, and deliver measurable ROI in 60 days.

Learn more: http://gaspedal.com

Social Media Business CouncilJoin the Social Media Business Council, a brands-only community that helps large organizations build successful social media programs.

Learn more: http://www.socialmedia.org

Tell a Friend

We will not use email addresses for any purpose other than sending this recommendation. (Privacy Policy)

Thanks for the word of mouth! Your message has been sent!

Please enter a valid email.

Your email failed. Try again later.