I was listening to a recent episode of the Duct Tape Marketing podcast, featuring Dave Kerpen, CEO of Likeable Media. In this particular discussion, Kerpen made some excellent points about the value of storytelling in a brand’s marketing strategy. I’ve written articles on this blog before, centered on the aspect of storytelling and the power it has over an audience, but I wanted to recap some of Kerpen’s points. The whole of Kerpen’s discussion with host John Jantsch centered on how brands can utilize marketing tools, strategies, etc. to achieve the ultimate goal of “likeability.”
- The best way to use social media tools to strengthen relationships is to share stories. Open up and tell people who you are. Be personal.
- Stories personalize a brand better than any marketing tactic.
- Imagine the social media landscape was a cocktail party. How would you capture the attention of those at the party? You wouldn’t show up with a slick marketing campaign and broadcast it out to everyone you meet. Rather, you would tell interesting stories to engage. You want the other guests to like what you have to say.
- Every business has a story to tell; stories about how the company was founded, obstacles that certain employees have overcome, successes and failures, etc.
- These stories can be shared with pictures, with web video, with blog posts and tweets.
- Stories are what people want to talk about.
One last point that was made that I thought was worth repeating is, “It’s hard NOT to like someone, once you know their story.”
I’ve always been a strong advocate for storytelling, because in every video we at Red Fox Media produce, the goal is to share some kind of story with the audience. It’s natural to want to use video to convey basic facts about a company, product, or service. But it’s more challenging to weave those facts into a story that will engage and entertain. Consider this testimonial video we produced for an oral surgery clinic, or this promotional video for the Hoover City Schools. In each video, the necessary marketing facts were conveyed, but that information was presented using stories as a foundation. We will always welcome the opportunity to tell your story.
Related articles
- Is Facebook Still Likeable? (ducttapemarketing.com)
- The Importance Of Being Liked (nytrafficticket.com)
- 10 Proven Strategies for Greater Likeability on Facebook (mashable.com)
