I was at the farmers market last week at the Liffey Valley shopping centre and as we passed by the fruit and vegetable stall the owner was offering everyone within ear shot free samples of fruit slices. We were lured over and before we know it we had purchased €15 worth of fruit that we had not originally set out to buy!

This reminded me of the power of offering a free sample, which works on an number of different levels. First of all the law of reciprocity where we tend to feel obligated to someone once they have given something to us.

Secondly by allowing your prospects to try your products or services for nothing you are eliminating the uncertainty and risk of them trying you out, which means one less barrier to them becoming your customer.

Finally by offering a free sample this allows you to engage with your customers and determine exactly what they might need so that you can help them.

What free sample can you give your prospective customers?