How to turn your customers into your best brand advocates

You’ve got email marketing covered. Your messages are personal, timely and getting results. But if that’s where your strategy ends, you could be missing an opportunity. That’s why customer advocacy should be part of your marketing strategy!

Platforms like TikTok and Meta have changed how people connect with brands. These days, what your customers say often matters more than what you say. Let’s look at how to help your happy customers share the love and why it’s worth the effort.

Why your customers are your most trusted voice

You’ve already built a loyal audience. Your email list is full of people who know you, trust you and keep coming back. Now imagine a few of them sharing their positive experiences with their friends, colleagues or followers.

That kind of personal recommendation can carry more weight than any ad. In fact, 92% of people trust recommendations from friends and family more than any other kind of advertising. (Nielsen)

Nearly half of consumers have bought something based on an influencer’s advice. (Digital Marketing Institute)

People trust people. That’s why advocacy works!

Influencer marketing is also proving its worth. In the United Kingdom, influencer-led campaigns have shown significant impact. A report from Influencer Marketing Hub highlighted that businesses earn an average of £5.78 for every £1 spent on influencer marketing.

This return on investment speaks volumes about the effectiveness.

What might be holding you back

If you’re unsure about trying advocacy or influencer marketing, you’re not alone. Some marketers worry it’s too complex or hard to measure. The idea of identifying the right influencers or tracking the performance of advocacy efforts can seem overwhelming.

But tools have come a long way. The latest advocacy platforms can help you spot the right people, manage content and track results without much effort. Many work alongside your email system, so you can build on what’s already working.

This isn’t about starting from scratch. It’s adding a new layer to your existing strategy!

Six ways to build a strong advocacy programme

Here’s how to get started:

1. Spot your supporters

Look at your data. Who’s opening your emails, clicking links or engaging on social? These customers already like what you do. Reach out and see if they’d be happy to share their experiences. Gauge their willingness to share their positive experiences with your brand.

2. Offer real rewards

Build a simple programme that makes people feel appreciated. Think early access, small thank-you gifts or a chance to be featured. A little recognition can go a long way. A structured programme not only incentivises your customers but also encourages them to share their experiences with their own networks.

3. Choose real voices

You don’t need celebrities. Micro-influencers with smaller, loyal followings can often make a bigger impact. Find people who reflect your values and already enjoy your product or service. Collaborate on projects that allow them to share genuine experiences with your product or service.

4. Choose the right social media platforms

TikTok and Meta both have features that support advocacy. From live shopping to user-generated content, there are plenty of ways to create buzz and connect with your audience. Use these platforms to host interactive events, share user-generated content, and build a community around your brand. Perfect for eCommerce stores!

5. Let the data guide you

Use analytics to see what’s working. Look at engagement, shares and clicks. Use these insights to shape your next steps. This will help you fine-tune your advocacy programme and influencer partnerships. By regularly reviewing these insights, you can adjust your strategy to maximise results.

6. Provide ongoing support and training

It is important to keep your advocates motivated and informed. Provide them with the resources they need to represent your brand effectively. This might include a media kit, regular updates about new products or services, and even training sessions. The more empowered your advocates feel, the more effectively they will promote your brand.

How Spotler Engage helps you make it happen

Spotler Engage makes advocacy easy to manage, even if you’re just getting started.

Everything in one place

Plan, post and track your content from a single dashboard. No need to switch between platforms.

Create better content, faster

Use built-in AI tools to write social posts and get ideas. The AI helps you fine-tune your messages so they’re clear and on-brand.

See what’s working

Get detailed reports on reach, engagement and return on investment. Make decisions based on real data.

Works with your email marketing

Best of all, Spotler Engage works great with Spotler Mail+. So, your advocacy and email work together, not in silos.

How to align email and advocacy for better results

Email and social media both have strengths. When you use them together, your message becomes stronger.

• Keep your tone consistent: Whether it’s an email or a social post, your brand voice should feel the same.

• Promote across channels: Use emails to invite customers to join your advocacy programme. Share social proof in your newsletters. Similarly, use your social media platforms to invite subscribers to sign up for your email list.

• Review and improve: Keep track of your results and tweak your strategy when needed. Stay informed about new trends on platforms like TikTok, and be quick to incorporate relevant changes into your approach.

• Be responsive: Show your customers you’re listening. Answer their comments, say thank you and make them feel part of something. Social media is a two-way street, and successful advocacy campaigns depend on genuine engagement.

Start turning customers into advocates

Advocacy is more than a trend. It’s a smart way to grow trust and reach through the people who already believe in you.

Spotler Engage helps you take the next step with clear tools, helpful features and easy integration with your existing marketing. No fuss. Just a smarter way to connect the dots.

Ready to explore?

Try Spotler Engage and start building a community that shares your story for you. Your customers are already your best asset. It is time to let them speak for your brand.