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It is hard for a start up to get started on their social media strategy because they can’t describe their fans
Earlier today, I posted a reworded version of Umair Haque’s 10 Sun Tzu Rules in the Networked World
The first rule gives new startups a lot of trouble. “Who are our fans?”
People going into their first job or making a career switch have the same trouble. How can we say who we work for when we know so little about them? When we are asked too abruptly to describe our future customers, we feel very anxious and tend to freeze.
Freezing in terror is a common psychological response to the unknown
Freezing falls into a common ‘class of problem’ that positive career psychologists can sort out for you. This is how we think about your predicament.
We are on the edge of canyon staring at a frayed rope bridge, and our eyes are naturally drawn to the long drop down. It is sickening.
But we have all heard the advice – don’t look down – and it is good advice.
The solution is to focus on what we have going for us
What we have to do is to take our eyes off the long drop down, and take stock. Take your eyes off that drop now, and look at your pockets.
What resources do you have? What is in your pockets? Do you have a map? And so on.
Feel better?
Now we want to keep our focus on what is going for us
A tricks of the trade will help.
I found this version of an elevator pitch that will do the trick.
Hello, ____________(their name). I’m ___________ (my name).
I heard/read in _______________ (source) that________________________________(event/issue).
Perhaps, ______________(co name) should consider__________________________(my brilliant idea.)
As _____________(informal/formal position), I __________________________(achievement/activity).
And ________________(result).
So what do you think?
Thank you. I would like to continue this conversation. Here is my card.
And we should spot a solution quite readily
I am sure your potential customers can swimming into your imagination quite vividly. In fact, you are probably surprised (and impressed) by the clarity and detail that you imagine!
Did it work? Do let me know.
Oh, and do jot down a few scenarios down before you lose the pictures. Then you can see if your social media strategy falls into place easily.
