These days, we have so many ways to communicate and spread the word with mobile phones, texting, emails, video, and internet. If you aren't already taking advantage of these communication devices, start now!

Word of mouth doesn't replace good advertising, but it helps good advertising perform better. Why? Because it comes from loyal and happy customers saying what they feel about you, your products and services. Treat customers like partners by empowering them with information and resources, and they'll become your best sales team!

One increasingly powerful marketing method is social networking. Networking sites make it easy to build reciprocal relationships with customers. Create awareness and value by weaving your message into industry-specific networking sites.

There are many outstanding social networks available to grow your internet marketing. LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook, to name a few, rank in the top three of 2009.

Not comfortable with social networking sites? Try blogging. Write quality posts that are informative, helpful and easy to understand. Avoid technical jargon and give a clear explanation of the industry specific terms used. Join in discussions and leave comments on other industry-related blogs and forums.

Reach out to peers and ask for opinions or compliment an article they've written. Get to know customers and other businesses within your industry while reading their blogs. Your business will be more attractive and of greater service to yourself, your industry, and customers.

Another way to share and get others talking about you is Karma Marketing. Build synergistic relationships with other businesses in your industry. When you refer someone to another company, they receive the expertise they're looking for which creates goodwill. Referrals also create goodwill between you and the company you referred and they just might return the favor. Referrals are a great way to gain business while helping your customers, vendors and collaborators. So get out there and share the love and reap the rewards!

"No one appreciates the very special genius of your conversations as a dog does." Christopher Morley (1890 - 1957)