All people are not equal. There are those that consume what is hip, cool and stylistic and those that tell others what they should be buying. I don’t think it’s a great idea to treat your customers like a democracy. Wrong mindset for how things work. It’s really a meritocracy. Those that are natural sneezers, people who spread an ideavirus, should be treated like royalty. They matter more.
The sneezers are the first people to please. They should get inordinate amounts of favoritism in:
- attention
- gifts
- respect
- access
- secrets
- VIP treatment
- investment
- time
They are the ones that help to drive your future customers, shape your product and start buzz. Several books have taught this to us. Yet, why do we miss the mark? Perhaps its a lack of clear thinking about how markets work and who people are. Maybe we have the illusion that there should be parity.
I would look carefully over marketing plans and strategies. Look for data in your communications and social media. Think about who touches other people. Then focus your energy on building a meaningful and valuable relationship.
The hard part is ignoring the noise of the crowds, the followers. They come second. The first people will help them follow.
Is this something you practice in your business? Feel free to comment.