The world today is drowning in content but starving for connection. After all, we’re social creatures who originally came from tribal societies. Today, we create tribal loyalties around our interests, passions, and identities — and brands that align with them.
Entrepreneurs and companies that create a community of loyal customers will always win. Imagine that your customers not only consistently buy from you, but also become zealots who tell all their friends about you. You can spend less on marketing and focus on what really matters. Sounds pretty good, right?
Here are the five surefire ways to curate your own community of raving fans.
1. Motivate them with a mission.
As humans, we want to be part of something bigger than ourselves. That’s why the strongest communities are underpinned by a mission or purpose. I created Maverick1000 to give entrepreneurs the push and support needed to accomplish a higher vision because I believe business can be the greatest lever to make a difference. As a result, we also live, grow, and play together.
Give your followers something to strive for. Not only will this get them involved and excited — but they will also see it as their mission to convert others.
2. Inspire them with your origin story.
To truly connect with you, your tribe needs to know how you got started and why. What was your inspiration? What obstacles did you overcome? Your mission and creation story are intertwined.
3. Create barriers to entry.
Qualify your members before they can be part of the community. The more we struggle to attain something, the more we value it. Members of elite groups like the Navy SEALs have tight, cohesive bonds because they’re such difficult groups to get into. You better believe that our members appreciated the special patch they earned after walking for three miles with a 200-pound log.
4. Establish rituals.
Rituals tie your community together even further. Create rituals throughout the customer journey, including their inauguration, anniversaries, and other special acknowledgments.
5. Host exceptional experiences.
Unique experiences bring people together on a different level that fosters deep relationships. Country music star Keith Urban gave VIP treatment to a group of super fans who attended 100 of his concerts. Not only do they love him more as a result; he has also received a lot of publicity for it.
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