The First Time Ever I Saw Your Facebook: Marketing Love Songs
It’s fair to say that Valentine’s Day, no matter your romantic situation, is generally a letdown. At best, you’re all dressed up with a bunch of other dressed-up couples in a crowded restaurant eating an over-priced prix fixe dinner. At worst, you’re at home alone eating ice cream straight out of the container and watching When Harry Met Sally on TBS. Actually, it’s probably the other way around. So, if you’re like us, and you’re boycotting February 14, you’re going to need something to do. Fire up the ol’ iPod, pour yourself a glass of wine, and revel in the fact that your love isn’t defined by a greeting card holiday. And while you’re at it, listen to these classic love songs, forget romance, and reminisce about the greatest love of all: marketing.
Yeah, baby, let’s get it on.
I’ll Be There (Jackson 5) Like most people, when we hear this song about everlasting love and commitment, we think about our clients. Hopefully, we fill their hearts with joy and laughter, and they know that all they need to do is call our name, and we’ll be there. Whether it’s your clients, your customers or the people who support you in your creative endeavors, it’s important that they know you’re willing to return the favor. If you send anyone a heart-shaped card decorated with glitter, it should be your clientele.
Unchained Melody (Righteous Brothers)Time goes by so slowly, and time can do so much. Yes, this reminds of Demi Moore (pre-whip-its) and Patrick Swayze (RIP) and pottery-making. Bummer. But it also reminds us that people need reminding. Once you’ve established your brand, the best thing you can do to maintain your presence is to stay top-of-mind. Social media, newsletters, e-blast campaigns, and unexpected experiential marketing events will keep your business at the forefront.
I Will Follow Him (Little Peggy March) He (or she) may not be your destiny, but if you’re trying to build relationships on social media, coy is not the way to go. Follow your Twitter followers, learn about them (in a non-stalkery kind of way) and use this information to assess your audience from the inside out. Where do they go? What do they do for fun? What are their favorite restaurants? Like when you’re courting a new “special friend,” knowing these kinds of details will give you a huge advantage.
Will You Love Me Tomorrow (Carole King) We’ve all been there. You have a great evening, and then you spend the next 24 hours imagining your phone buzzing only to find zero missed calls. Don’t let your customers or your clients feel that way – show a little appreciation! If someone makes a big purchase, signs a contract or gives you a referral, show them that you love them, even after the cash register closes. Our suggestion? Send a handwritten note. But we’re just old romantics, if you couldn’t tell.
Well, shoot. This happens every year. We start off dreading V-Day, and then we start thinking about our great friends, family, clients and everyone in the community that makes our lives and our work complete. Then the wine kicks in, and our heart starts fluttering as we dream of all of the great things we’ll get to do together. As our eyes fog up and we go for round 2 (okay, round 3) at the box of chocolates, we’ll be thinking of all of you. Xs and Os, everyone.