“Call it a clan, call it a network, call it a tribe, call it a family. Whatever you call it, whoever you are, you need one.” – Jane Howard
In today’s digital age, building a community around your brand is more vital than ever. A strong community not only supports your business, but can also serve as your most influential ambassadors.
Take Harley-Davidson, for example. They don’t just sell motorcycles; they sell a lifestyle, a sense of belonging. Harley owners are not mere customers; they are part of a tribe, a family.
How can you cultivate such a strong community?
- Understand Your Audience: Know what drives them, what connects them, what they value. This deep understanding is the foundation of a strong community.
- Provide Value Beyond Products: Your community is not just there to buy from you. Provide value in other ways, such as education, entertainment, or support.
- Foster Connection and Engagement: Encourage interaction within your community. Whether it’s online forums, social media, or live events, create spaces where your community can connect and engage.
- Show Appreciation: Recognize and appreciate your community members. Highlight their stories, celebrate their successes, and thank them for their loyalty.
Action Step: Start by identifying what values and interests connect your audience. How can you foster those connections? Create a plan to provide value and encourage engagement within your community.
A strong community is not just a marketing tactic; it’s a relationship-building strategy. It’s about connecting on a human level, about building something greater than a transactional relationship.
If you’re intrigued by the idea of building a community around your brand and want to explore this subject in greater depth, take a look at our book of the week: “Building a StoryBrand” by Donald Miller.