The Power of Word of Mouth

Welcome back to the Block Report — still written by me and not AI.

This month’s post is about one of the oldest and most effective marketing tools we still use today: word of mouth.

In a world dominated by social media, viral posts, and ads everywhere you look, word of mouth is still alive and well. Maybe a friend told you about a restaurant you had to try, a happy hour you needed to check out, a gym worth joining, or a social group that felt like your vibe. When news like that comes from someone we trust, we’re much more likely to act on it.

Now here’s the real question:
What if that same principle applied to you — your career, your passions, your personal brand?

Let me show you how it has worked in my life.

How Word of Mouth Worked for Me

When I first started getting involved in community advocacy, I attended a local meeting focused on the future of the neighborhood. Like usual, I had a few ideas, and when I got the chance to share, I spoke my mind.

What I didn’t expect was the response.

People in the room agreed with what I said. Shortly after, my name started floating through community circles. I began hearing things like:

“Have you heard of this guy Jonathan?”

That one moment opened the door to relationships, opportunities, and collaborations I couldn’t have planned myself — all because people talked and spoke positively.

Advice From My Grandfather

Another powerful lesson in word of mouth came from my grandfather.

During his career, he climbed the ladder through more than talent — he built a reputation. It got to a point where he didn’t even need to interview anymore. His name alone carried weight.

His advice to me?

Make sure your work is the best reflection of who you are.

In other words, let people speak for you when you’re not in the room.

Word of Mouth in Real Life (Netflix Edition)

If you want a modern example, just look at Netflix.

When they release a hit show or movie, you don’t always see commercials right away. Most of the time, you find out because:

• A friend texts you

• A coworker brings it up

• A podcast mentions it

That’s word of mouth at work — powerful, organic, and honest.

Key Takeaways

Here’s what you should walk away with:

• Word of mouth is powerful.

• In professional spaces, it’s tied directly to the quality of what you produce.

• You can’t skip the work — you have to build something worth talking about.

• You never know who’s listening or who might hear your name.

• Your next opportunity could come from someone you’ve never even met.

That’s all I’ve got for this one.

Thanks for stopping by the Block.
Until next time.