Don't Panic Over Social Media Shifts - Focus on Creating Great Content

Many coaches and influencers are panicking as Instagram, Meta, TikTok, and other platforms implement major changes. But the solution isn't complaining - it's adapting your strategy and doubling down on creating exceptional content that truly connects with your audience..."

Let's address the elephant on the social streets- where people are losing their minds over the Instagram Algorithm changes, the meta-verified shenanigans, and the eventual demise of TikTok. 

As with all big changes, it highlights and separates the business, marketing, and coaches based on their reactions. What you're seeing right now is how long these people have been in business.  

I could go off on a tangent here, but I promise I'm not going to. I'm going to make this helpful for you.

The bitching and complaining come directly from people who are “newer” and have put all of their marketing efforts into one basket. That basket could be Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, or whatever your social platform of choice is here.

I'm seeing how business owners understand marketing and social media as a whole. Here's what I mean….

Since the beginning of the Facebook business page in November 2007, we have been incredibly blessed as business owners. We've had a place for our business to connect with others on social media for FREE. And then, when Instagram went from iPhone only to all other phones in April 2012, we were extra blessed with an additional FREE void to shout into about our businesses. 

So, it's fascinating that most people are shocked to learn that they might need to pay to play- because it seems a bit overdue.

When I took my first marketing classes, Facebook was for college students only, and businesses needed to pay physical and expensive marketing and advertising expenses. E-commerce—wtf was that? To "succeed," a business needed signage, advertising in newspapers, radio, TV, and direct mail to gain traction. All of that with no real way to test and track its return on investment.

It was expensive back in the 1900’s to reach people because you had to do actual advertising. To understand this better, in this day and age, do you know what 10M views on TikTok are worth in paid media? Based on Tok's $10 CPM (Cost Per Mille), aka Impressions average, it's about $100,000, and there are people who are getting that for FREE. 

I'm sorry to jump platform talk, but I need to give you an idea of how this exactly plays out in the paid world today.

Because my next point is that organic content is still alive. With this new Instagram algorithm update and the Meta updates that are expanding to other countries, and eventually the US, people are freaking out that to be seen; they are going to have to pay. I don't believe this to be true as of right now, and here's why- I don't believe that organic is going anywhere. The primary goal of social media platforms is for many people to disassociate and spend lots of time on the platform to keep their advertisers happy.

If there aren't people on the platforms, scrolling along and wasting their days, there are no advertisers.

If the platforms only showed paid content from mediocre creators, people would abandon them in mass, which would lead to less revenue for the platform.

Because once again remember, you are running a business on another business. 

Your feeds won't be overrun with junk ads, as that wouldn't be in the users' best interest. So, the rules essentially stay the same: the best content wins.

The Meta Verified isn't going to change that once it gets to the US. 

Producing great organic content will gain exposure.  I get that it feels like sometimes you have to create 100 shitty pieces of content before something sticks but you do have the luxury of figuring out by looking at your analytics monthly what content your community wants from you. 

But with all of these changes and "challenges" happening, it's more important than ever to figure out what is working. Be in more than one place. Build your email list. Focus on the following you already have. Provide exceptional service.

The most important thing of them all is to connect with human beings. 

Keep Learning. Stay Consistent and get creative.

The Secret Weapon for Small Business Success: In-Person Events

As a small business owner, you know how important it is to stand out in a crowded market and connect with your target customers. But how exactly do you accomplish that?

While digital marketing tactics like social media and email campaigns are essential nowadays, there's something truly powerful about hosting in-person events that can elevate your marketing efforts.

I’m still not quite sure why some businesses are not continuing to harness the full potential of the marketing concepts of the 1900’s you know before everything was found through a Google, Hashtag or incredibly implemented Search Engine Optimization Campaign.

So, how exactly can hosting an in-person event help your business marketing?

Building Personal Connections: Over the last four years, I've noticed that people crave authentic, face-to-face interactions in our now digitally dominant lifestyles. Hosting an in-person event allows you to connect with potential customers on a deeper level. Whether it's a product launch party, educational workshop, or networking mixer, these events allow you to build rapport, trust, and lasting relationships with attendees in a way that's not possible through online channels alone.

Increasing Brand Awareness: Events provide an excellent platform to showcase your brand, products, and services in an immersive way.

Generating Qualified Leads:  One of the most significant benefits of hosting events is generating high-quality leads. Inviting your ideal customers to an event tailored to their interests or needs pre-qualifies them as potential buyers. During the event, you can collect contact information, gauge interest levels, and follow up with attendees, increasing the likelihood of converting them into paying customers.

Positioning Yourself as an Expert: Events offer a unique opportunity to demonstrate your expertise and thought leadership in your industry. Whether hosting an educational seminar, hands-on workshop, or panel discussion, you can position your small business as a go-to authority in your field. This not only builds credibility but can also lead to increased trust and loyalty from attendees.

Fostering Community: Hosting events allows you to become more involved in your local community, which can pay dividends for your small business. By supporting local causes, partnering with other businesses, or simply providing a space for people to gather, you can foster a sense of goodwill and community engagement that can translate into positive word-of-mouth marketing and increased support from local residents and businesses.

Creating Memorable Experiences: In a world where consumers are bombarded with marketing messages, creating a memorable experience is key to standing out. Well-executed events have the power to leave a lasting impression on attendees, making it more likely for them to remember your small business and recommend it to others.

As you can see, hosting in-person events offers many benefits for small business marketing. Events can be a powerful tool in your marketing arsenal, from building personal connections and increasing brand awareness to generating qualified leads and positioning yourself as an expert. 

What’s holding you back from planning your next event today and experiencing the power of face-to-face marketing for yourself?

If you need suggestions on how to market your in-person event on social check out The Small Business Guide to Supercharging Events with Social Media Ebook I wrote.

The Entertainer’s Advantage: Winning The Social Media Battle For Attention

Each spring, I teach a four-part social media series for business owners through the SBDC I also consult at. Almost every time, a similar question is asked when we begin to discuss what kind of content to produce: “Does content need to be entertaining to get the scroll stopped?”

Before I share my perspective on this, let's consider a thought-provoking question: What underlying motivations lead someone to open their favorite social media app and begin to scroll?

1. Connection and Belonging: Humans crave connection and a sense of belonging at our core. Social media provides a virtual space where we can interact with others, share our thoughts and experiences, and feel part of a community. Whether reconnecting with old friends, joining interest-based groups, or simply feeling heard and validated by others, social media fulfills our innate need for social connection.

2. Self-Expression and Identity: Social media platforms offer a canvas for self-expression and identity exploration. We carefully curate our profiles, share glimpses of our lives, and express our opinions and beliefs. This ability to craft our online personas and present ourselves to the world in a specific way can be empowering and addictive.

3. Information and Entertainment: Social media is a vast repository of information and entertainment. From breaking news and viral trends to memes and funny videos, these platforms provide constant content that keeps us engaged and informed. The fear of missing out (FOMO) on the latest updates or viral sensations can be a powerful motivator to stay connected.

4. Validation and Approval: Social media has become a source of validation and approval in the digital age. We measure our self-worth by the number of likes, comments, and followers we accumulate. The dopamine hit we experience when our content receives positive engagement can be highly addictive, driving us to seek more and more validation from our online peers.

5. Distraction: Some people use social media to avoid or escape negative emotions like sadness, anxiety, loneliness, etc. Immersing themselves in the online world provides a temporary distraction from confronting difficult internal feelings.

Understanding why people tap into their social media app of choice is the first hurdle in creating content that will get your community to pay attention to what you are putting out there.

User Attention Is A Precious Commodity

Mastering the art of creating attention-grabbing posts is crucial for any brand or individual looking to stand out, and where the question “Does all content need to be entertaining?” is a YES.

Scroll back up and re-read numbers 1, 3, and 5. Social media is a form of escapism for the user, who logs on to be entertained and distracted from dealing with whatever is happening in their real life. This could be waiting in the waiting room of the doctor's office, in the pickup line at their child's school, or dealing with some emotional news they just received.

Here are some practical tips to help you craft content that stops the scroll and commands audience engagement:

1. Know Your Audience: Before embarking on any content creation journey, it's essential to have a deep understanding of your target audience. What are their interests, pain points, and preferences? Tailoring your content to resonate with your audience will significantly increase its effectiveness.

2. Use Visuals Wisely: Visual content is more likely to capture attention than plain text. Incorporate eye-catching images, videos, and infographics to make your posts visually appealing and engaging. Ensure that your visuals are high-quality and relevant to your message.

3. Spark Emotions: Emotions have a powerful impact on human behavior. To connect with your audience on a deeper level, try content that evokes emotions such as joy, surprise, humor, or inspiration. Emotional posts are more likely to be shared and resonate with users- an example of this is dog videos.

4. Ask Questions and Encourage Interaction: Encourage audience interaction by asking questions in your posts. People love to share their opinions and experiences, so prompting them to engage with your content through comments, likes, or shares can boost your post's visibility and reach.

5. Keep It Concise and Scannable: We are dealing with a 3.5-second attention span, and users have short attention spans. Keep your posts concise, clear, and scannable to make it easy for users to consume your content quickly. Use bullet points, subheadings, and short paragraphs to make your posts visually appealing and easy to read.

6. Stay Consistent: Consistency is key to maintaining audience engagement on social media. Develop a content calendar and schedule posts regularly to keep your audience interested and coming back for more. Experiment with different content formats and track the performance of your posts to refine your strategy over time.

You can effectively command their attention amidst the endless scroll by prioritizing entertaining and emotionally resonant content tailored to your specific audience's preferences. Remember, social media is often an escape or a source of connection for users, so crafting content that fulfills those core desires is key.

Continuously experiment and analyze what resonates most with your community. Embrace visuals, spark emotions, encourage interactions, and maintain consistency. Success on social media requires a delicate balance of strategic planning and an innate understanding of what truly captivates your audience.

Ultimately, the ability to stop the scroll lies in your capacity to create content that entertains, informs, and resonates on a profound level. Master this art; you'll unlock a powerful connection with your audience, fortifying your brand's online presence and driving meaningful engagement. In the realm of social media, the scroll never stops, but with the right approach, you can become the highlight they pause for.

Let's chat if you need help on how exactly your business can achieve entertaining online.

Location, Location, Location: Why It's So Important For Physical Businesses To Geotag Instagram Posts

Here’s a secret you may or may not know about me: when I’m traveling or about to travel, I search the location of where I’m going on Instagram to see what’s out there. I scroll to see what shops, restaurants, coffee shops, and natural things are attached to the Geo/Location tag of where I am going.

And I notice that what so many businesses forget to do is add a geotag to their posts. This means that they are missing out on the out-of-towners like me who do this same thing to plan where they want to go or where they want to eat.

Instagram geotags are digital markers that offer endless possibilities, from exploring new destinations to optimizing your road trip adventures. Read on for a journey into the world of geotagging and start shaping your next unforgettable adventure.

What are Instagram Geo Tags and How They Work

Instagram Geo Tags are a powerful feature that allows users to add a specific location to their posts, providing a geotag for each photo or video shared on the platform. This function enables users to tag the exact place where the content was created, adding an exciting layer of location-based information to their posts.

Understanding Instagram Geo Tags

1. Location Tagging: Instagram Geo Tags associate your post with a specific place on the map. This can range from a famous landmark to a local restaurant or even a hidden gem off the beaten path.

2. Creating Connections: By tagging your posts with Geo Tags, you can connect with other users who have been to or are interested in the location. This can lead to new friendships, travel recommendations, and shared experiences.

3. Discovery Tool: Geo Tags also serve as a discovery tool for users exploring new places. By searching for a specific location tag, users can uncover many posts related to that place, offering insights, inspiration, and practical tips for their journeys.

4. Personalization: Instagram Geo Tags add a personal touch to your posts, allowing you to share the content and the exact place where you captured the moment. This creates a more immersive experience for your followers, connecting them to your adventures.

How Geo Tags Work

1. Feature Integration: Instagram seamlessly integrates Geo Tags into the post-creation process, allowing users to add a location directly before sharing their content.

2. Manual Input: Users can manually type in the location they wish to tag or choose from a list of suggested places generated by the platform based on their current location or past tagging history.

3. Privacy Control: Instagram offers privacy settings that allow users to control who can see the location tags on their posts, ensuring that sensitive or private locations remain secure.

4. Mapping Feature: Geo Tags have a mapping feature that displays the tagged location on a map within the post, giving viewers a visual reference of the content's creation.

Advantages of Using Geo Tags

• Enhanced Discoverability: Geotags increase the visibility of your posts to users searching for content related to specific locations, expanding your reach and engagement.

• Personalized Recommendations: By exploring posts tagged with specific locations, users can discover new destinations, restaurants, attractions, and accommodations recommended by fellow travelers.

• Community Engagement: Geo Tags foster a sense of community among users who share a love for travel and exploration, enabling them to connect, share tips, and form valuable connections.

By searching for location-based tagging related to their intended destinations, individuals can explore new places, gather travel inspiration, and create a comprehensive travel itinerary. Whether finding hidden gems, trending spots, or off-the-beaten-path attractions, geotags provide valuable insights into various travel destinations.

One of the key advantages of incorporating Instagram geotags into trip planning is the ability to maximize road trip stops. Using geotags, travelers can identify scenic viewpoints, local eateries, cultural landmarks, and photo-worthy spots along their routes. This enriches the travel experience and ensures every step contributes to a memorable and fulfilling journey.

Why Your Business Needs To Begin Geotagging

1. Enhancing Local Visibility

Establishing a strong local presence is often crucial for small businesses to attract customers. Geotags allow you to tag your location when posting on Instagram, making it easier for users in your area to discover your content. When users search for posts or stories tagged in a specific location, yours could be among the top results, thus increasing your visibility within your community.

2. Building Community Engagement

Geotags are more than just a feature; they're a direct line to your local community. By tagging your location, you can tap into conversations and events in your area, fostering relationships with nearby businesses and potential customers. This direct connection with your community increases engagement. It builds brand loyalty, as users who frequent or are interested in your locality are likelier to engage with your content, leading to increased likes, comments, and, ultimately, brand loyalty.

3. Showcasing Authenticity and Trustworthiness

Standing out with authenticity is paramount in a market saturated with advertisements and sponsored content. Geotags provide a unique advantage by adding credibility to your posts by verifying your physical presence in a specific location. This authenticity resonates with consumers, as they perceive businesses with a genuine local presence as trustworthy and reliable. By showcasing your physical location through geotags, you're not just promoting your products or services but also telling a story about your roots and commitment to your community.

4. Targeting Relevant Audiences

Geotags offer a powerful targeting tool, allowing you to reach audiences based on their location. Whether you're hosting an event, running a promotion, or want to attract foot traffic to your storefront, geotagging enables you to target users within a specific radius of your business. This targeted approach ensures that your content reaches the most relevant audience, maximizing the impact of your marketing efforts and driving conversions.

5. Improving SEO and Discoverability

In addition to enhancing visibility within the Instagram platform, geotags can benefit your overall online presence. When users search for local businesses or attractions on search engines like Google, geotagged Instagram posts may appear in the results, thus improving your SEO ranking and increasing discoverability. By consistently geotagging your posts, you can boost your chances of being found by potential customers on and off the Instagram platform.

Geotags on Instagram offer many benefits for small businesses looking to expand their reach and engage with their local community and travelers looking for unique experiences while visiting a location.

From enhancing visibility and authenticity to targeting relevant audiences and improving SEO, geotagging is a valuable tool that should not be overlooked in your social media marketing strategy. By harnessing the power of geotags, small businesses can amplify their presence, foster meaningful connections, and ultimately drive growth in their local market.

So, next time you post on Instagram, remember to geotag your business's location and watch your business thrive in the digital landscape.

Unraveling A Social Media & PR Debacle: A Wake-Up Call for Every Business's Crisis Communication Plan

Has anyone else been following the social media and PR debacle that has been going on over in the UK? 

Podcasters have been commenting on it, Reels were being made, Gossip was being strewn while real humans are being impacted.

 This whole thing has sparked my interest in asking you if you have a crisis communication plan in place for your business.

I can hear your thoughts:" I don't need that. I'm not big enough to need a crisis communication plan."

I beg to differ.

These days, one misstep, one word taken out of context, can cause a snowball escalating from a minor blunder to a full-blown Public Relations crisis within moments.

I hate that this is how the world is, but we all know it's true. 

Social media has fundamentally transformed the landscape of public relations and crisis communication. Because social is a double-edged sword- yes, it offers unprecedented opportunities for brand exposure and engagement, but it also poses significant risks if not managed effectively. In the wake of the UK "scandal", social media played a crucial role in amplifying the public outcry and shaping the issue's false narrative.

And now, many of those who jumped on the trend are backpedaling, pulling content, and issuing apologies. 

While a real human family is left to deal with the emotional and mental fallout that ensues from the pursuit of likes and followers from the content of those reels and podcasts. 

I feel like we are all a little too quick to forget these days that it's actual human beings behind 95% of the accounts on social media. 

And with that in mind, here are a few of my crisis management tips, should you ever need them:

Essential Crisis Communication Strategies:

1. Swift Response: Timeliness is critical when addressing a crisis. An immediate response demonstrates a commitment to transparency and shows that the situation is being taken seriously. In the case of the UK "scandal," delays in addressing the issue only fueled speculation and worsened the public perception.

2. Open and Honest Communication: Transparency is essential in building trust with the public. Organizations should communicate openly about the situation, providing accurate information and addressing concerns head-on. Avoiding or hiding details can lead to further distrust and backlash.

3. Tailored Messaging: Understanding the target audience and tailoring messages to resonate with them is crucial. Communication should be empathetic, authentic, and focused on addressing the stakeholders' concerns and needs. Personalized responses can help humanize the brand and show a genuine commitment to resolving the crisis.

4. Multi-channel Approach: Leveraging various communication channels is vital in reaching a broad audience and managing the narrative. Social media, press releases, interviews, and other platforms can help disseminate key messages and control the conversation surrounding the crisis.

5. Empower Spokespersons: Designating credible and articulate spokespeople to represent the organization can enhance communication effectiveness. These spokespeople should be trained to handle media inquiries, convey key messages, and project a sense of authority and competence during interviews and press conferences.

6. Continuous Monitoring and Evaluation: Crisis communication is an ongoing process that requires constant monitoring and evaluation. Assessing the effectiveness of communication strategies, gathering stakeholder feedback, and making necessary adjustments are essential in navigating the crisis and steering the narrative in the right direction.

A social media presence these days is so much more than just posting pretty pictures. 

The Unexpected Similarities Between Dating and Digital Marketing

You ever noticed how dating and digital marketing share some uncanny similarities? It's like they're distant cousins from different worlds! But when you dig a little deeper, you'll find they're not so different after all. Let's break it down and see what lessons we can learn from both fields.

1. Get to Know Your Crowd:

   Knowing your audience is key whether you're swiping right or crafting social media ads. Just like marketers study their target market, dating is all about understanding what makes your potential partner tick. What are their interests? What gets them excited? The better you know them, the better your chances.

2. Spruce Up Your Story:

   Storytelling isn't just for fairy tales—it's crucial in dating and marketing, too. Whether you're chatting up a hottie or writing a killer blog post, a compelling narrative can work wonders. It can show off your personality, share your passions, and make people want to stick around for more.

3. Build Trust Like a Boss:

   Trust is the glue that holds relationships together, whether romantic or business-related. Just like you look for honesty and reliability in a partner, consumers want brands they can trust. Be authentic, deliver on your promises, and watch that trust grow.

4. Navigate the Online Jungle:

   In today's digital age, dating and marketing have both gone online. From dating apps to social media platforms, the game has changed. But hey, it's not so scary once you get the hang of it. Stay savvy, keep up with the trends, and make the most of those digital tools at your disposal.

5. Master the Art of Engagement:

   Want to keep someone interested? Engagement is key, whether it's a potential date or a potential customer. Ask questions, listen actively, and show you're genuinely interested. In both dating and marketing, it's all about building that connection.

6. Data Is Your BFF:

   Just like marketers crunch numbers to track campaign performance, you can also use data to up your dating game. Pay attention to what works and what doesn't. Learn from your experiences, tweak your approach, and watch your success rate soar.

7. Learn from Feedback and Keep Improving:

   Whether you're trying to land a date or land a sale, it's all about continuous improvement. Take feedback in your stride, learn from your mistakes, and keep evolving. After all, the best relationships—and marketing strategies—are the ones that grow and adapt over time.

Dating and digital marketing may seem worlds apart, but they're more alike than you think. By borrowing some tricks from the marketing playbook, you can up your dating game and vice versa. So go ahead, put yourself out there, experiment, and see what works for you. After all, whether you're wooing a date or wooing customers, the object of the game is connection.

Are Hashtags Still Relevant? A Social Media Manager's Perspective on Navigating Instagram's Discoverability Landscape

One of the frequently asked questions I get every time the Q&A part of a presentation happens always includes hashtags and their relevancy. The ideal number of hashtags is constantly changing but what I am finding interesting lately is how search words are being implemented more and more into Instagram.

About a month ago, I was posting to clients' feeds and inserting the hashtags, and I got a warning from Instagram that I had reached the hashtag limit, but I had only typed 5 in. It is very interesting to me, which makes me believe more and more that the future of getting discovered and searched involves implementing more search words into your posts.

Adapting to Instagram's Search Revolution:

Instagram's focus on improving search functionality and refining its algorithm has been evident. With features like keyword search and Explore tab enhancements, the platform has taken steps towards offering users a more personalized and expansive content discovery experience.

For years, hashtags have been our go-to strategy for boosting visibility and fostering engagement. They've been instrumental in helping us categorize content, reach broader audiences, and cultivate communities around shared interests.

Finding Harmony Between SEO and Hashtags:

While Instagram SEO represents a paradigm shift in how content is discovered on the platform, it doesn't spell the end of hashtags. Instead, it introduces a new dimension to our approach that complements rather than replaces our tried-and-tested hashtag strategies.

Here's how I'm navigating the intersection of Instagram SEO and hashtags:

1. Strategic Keyword Integration: I'm embracing Instagram SEO by strategically incorporating relevant keywords into captions, bios, and content descriptions. This helps align our content with user search queries on the explore tab and improve its discoverability.

2. Harnessing the Power of Hashtags: Hashtags remain integral to our content strategy. I am currently in a test phase; I have not been using hashtags on Maven & Muse Media posts but continue to use them on clients' feeds to target specific communities, amplify reach, and foster engagement. The sweet spot is combining keyword optimization with strategic hashtag usage, which is maximizing content's visibility and appeal.

3. Content Relevance as a guiding force: Instagram SEO and hashtags prioritize content relevance. I'm focused on delivering content that resonates with the audience's interests and preferences. By staying true to the business's brand voice and consistently delivering value, we increase the chances of appearing in search results and users' feeds.

Striking the Right Balance:

Balance is critical in our journey to navigate Instagram's evolving discoverability landscape. We don't view Instagram SEO and hashtags as competing strategies but rather as complementary tools in our toolkit.

Here are some actionable insights from our experience:

1. Stay Updated: Keep up to date on Instagram's updates and changes in search functionality to adapt your strategy accordingly. Subscribing to the Maven Movement email is a great way to begin.

2. Experiment: Testing is one of the things you need to get used to doing when it comes to marketing. Try different keyword combinations and hashtag sets that apply to you, gauge their effectiveness, and refine your approach.

3. Measure and Adjust: Use Instagram analytics to track the performance of your content, paying attention to engagement metrics, audience demographics, and trends in keyword searches and hashtag usage. If you aren’t, it’s time to become besties with your analytics and check in with them at least weekly.

My goal remains unchanged: to help you authentically connect with your community and drive meaningful engagement. When you embrace both Instagram SEO and hashtags, we're navigating the ever-changing landscape of discoverability and unlocking new opportunities for growth and connection on the platform. If you’ve hit your social media posting limit and want some fresh ideas let’s chat.

Marketing Lessons from 90s Country Songs: Crafting Compelling Campaigns with Heartfelt Storytelling

You start scrolling your way, I start scrolling mine, and we meet in the middle. 

I have a secret: on days when inspiration and words aren't flowing, I turn on a 90s Country playlist.

Why 90's Country, you ask—well, it's because marketing is all about feelings and storytelling.

And no one does feelings, feelings, and storytelling better than 90's country songs.

The future of marketing is getting back to relating to someone's heart. The content that is performing well right now as I write this is uncurated and real.

WHY?

Because it's relatable and attainable- it speaks to someone's heart and creates a feeling.

Together, let's analyze 90s country songs that can offer insights into various aspects of marketing, including messaging, branding, storytelling, and emotional appeal. Here are some lessons we can learn.

1. Emotional Connection: 90s country songs often emphasize storytelling and evoke strong emotions. Similarly, effective marketing campaigns should aim to create emotional connections with the audience, whether it's through nostalgia, empathy, or shared values.

2. Authenticity: Many 90s country songs portray authentic, relatable everyday life experiences. Authenticity in marketing builds trust and credibility with consumers. Brands that convey honesty and sincerity in their messaging are more likely to resonate with their target audience.

3. Know Your Audience: Country music artists understood their audience well and crafted songs that spoke directly to their experiences and values. Similarly, successful marketing campaigns are tailored to resonate with specific target demographics, understanding their needs, preferences, and cultural context.

4. Brand Storytelling: Country songs are often rich in storytelling, painting vivid pictures of characters and situations. Effective marketing campaigns use storytelling to engage and captivate audiences, creating memorable brand narratives that consumers can connect with on a deeper level.

5. Simplicity and Clarity: Many 90s country songs convey their message with simple, straightforward lyrics that are easy to understand. In marketing, clear and concise messaging is key to effectively communicating a product's or service's benefits to consumers.

6. Universal Themes: Despite focusing on specific themes like love, heartbreak, and small-town life, 90s country songs often address universal human experiences. Similarly, successful marketing campaigns usually tap into universal themes and emotions that resonate across diverse audiences. The great philosopher Alison Krauss says best: "Old Mr. Webster could never define what's being said between your heart and mine."

7. Consistency: Country music artists often maintained a consistent image and sound throughout their careers, building a loyal fan base over time. Similarly, brands benefit from consistency in their messaging, visual identity, and customer experience, which helps to reinforce brand recognition and loyalty.

8. Adaptability: While rooted in tradition, country music evolved to stay relevant to changing audience tastes and cultural trends. Similarly, successful marketing strategies must adapt to new technologies, consumer behaviors, and market dynamics to effectively reach and engage target audiences. The times are changing in marketing. Gone are the days of the overly masculine "Buy this, it will change your life," and entering is the softness of the feminine and speaking to the heart. 

If you're feeling stuck, search for a 90s country playlist. Listen to a few songs and pay attention to the themes, stories, and strategies in the songs. Can you see what they are describing in your mind's eye while dancing around your kitchen? Try these valuable insights to craft compelling campaigns that resonate with consumers and drive meaningful connections with their brands. Like a timeless country ballad, the best marketing campaigns can touch hearts and stand the test of time.

And if you're still stuck, it's time for us to meet up. 

Ain't no scroll to a long- cause we meet in the middle. 

Exploring the Parallel Realities of "The Truman Show" and Social Media

I had a thought recently about the 1998 movie The Truman Show and its parallel to the 2010 released Instagram app. I don’t know where these thoughts come from, but sometimes I gotta go with them. 🤗

For some reason, the image of the people in the bar scene watching the Truman Show live reminded me of Instagram's magnifying glass search feature, and how sometimes we can get peeks into random lives of people, we aren't following when they show up on our search feed.

Let’s get into how parallel The Truman Show and Social Media are.

In a world where we are simultaneously straddling reality and virtual reality, it's fascinating to observe how certain aspects of our virtual existence mirror the themes explored in classic cinema. One such fascinating parallel exists between the world of social media and the iconic film, "The Truman Show." Released in 1998 and directed by Peter Weir, "The Truman Show" starred Jim Carrey as Truman Burbank, a man unaware that his entire life is a meticulously crafted reality TV show. Surprisingly, this narrative resembles the curated realities often portrayed on social media 26 years later.

THE FACADE OF PERFECTION

In "The Truman Show" and Social Media, the prevalent theme is portraying an idealized reality. Truman's life is meticulously orchestrated to present an idyllic suburban existence, complete with a loving wife, friendly neighbors, and a picturesque town; similarly, on Social Media, like it or not, users meticulously curate their feeds to showcase only the most flattering aspects of their lives - exotic vacations, gourmet meals, and glamorous events. Behind the scenes, however, both Truman and Social Media users may grapple with insecurities, loneliness, or dissatisfaction hidden beneath the veneer of perfection.

The parallels between social media and "The Truman Show" remind us of the complexities inherent in our digitally mediated lives. While both offer glimpses into alternate realities, they also underscore the importance of questioning the narratives we encounter and striving for genuine connection amidst the curated facade.

As we navigate these dual realities, we face the challenge of staying true to ourselves in a world where deception can often overshadow authenticity.

Every upload, story, and comment becomes a part of your digital presence, not only shaping how others perceive you but also how you perceive and love yourself.

Just like Truman, who was unaware of the cameras capturing his every move, social media users often forget the extent of their online visibility. When you post to social YOU are aware that others can see the content you are putting out there. The allure of likes, comments, and followers from a post can create a sense of validation, mirroring Truman's need for approval in his constructed world.

If you made it this far, I want to remind you that your worth as a human or a business is not defined by the number of likes, comments, or followers you have.

Remember that this is a virtual landscape and that your online presence should reflect your offline self. The quest for social validation and cultivating your online identity are journeys filled with twists and turns, challenges and triumphs, much like REAL LIFE.

Much like Truman's quest for truth in a world built on lies, your journey in the digital sphere is a quest for authenticity in a deception-dominated realm.

Consumers and scrollers are screaming for more real and relatable content. The overly branded and curated feed is on its way out; real connection and storytelling are the future of digital marketing.

How are you embracing the future?

If you need help navigating this for your business let’s chat.

From Supermodels to Social Media Stars: A Comparative Look at Influential Icons

I don't know about you, but lately, there has been so much interest in nostalgia, particularly for the 90s. Take one walk or scroll through a big box store fashion department, and it's like we've been transported back to 1997. 

Recently I went to a vintage clothing market held every other Saturday at the mall in my area. (The irony of vintage clothes being sold at a dying mall is not lost on me.) The primary demographic selling and buying were 20-somethings, and the stuff they were buying & selling was clothes from the '90s.

This got me thinking about two things: one, why are people so pulled back to nostalgia, and Two, Were the Supermodels of the 1990s the foundation for the social media influencer marketing culture we currently live in?

And now, you will get to read my thoughts on why this observation makes sense. Enjoy 

In case you weren't around, the 90s marked a golden era for the fashion industry, known for iconic supermodels gracing runways and magazine covers with unparalleled beauty and captivating presence. The supermodel era of the 90s was defined by larger-than-life personalities like Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, and Claudia Schiffer, who became synonymous with glamour, elegance, and style.

These supermodels weren't just faces; they were global sensations, embodying the essence of fashion icon status. Their influence went beyond the catwalk, permeating pop culture and setting trends that captivated audiences worldwide. Their impact on the fashion industry was profound, shaping how people viewed beauty and redefining the standards of grace and sophistication.

In the 90s, supermodels were:

• The ultimate celebrities.

• Gracing the covers of prestigious magazines.

• Walking the runways for renowned designers.

• Becoming the faces of luxury brands.

Their fame transcended the fashion world, solidifying their positions as cultural icons and role models for generations to come.

The rise of supermodels in the 90s was a phenomenon that revolutionized the way brands approached marketing and advertising. 

These iconic figures were not just models; they were brands themselves. Their association with a product could elevate its status and desirability, creating a sense of aspiration and luxury that consumers craved.

I mean, do you remember the Cindy Crawford Pepsi commercial introducing the rebrand that broke the Super Bowl? 

The supermodel era was characterized by exclusivity and mystique, with supermodels maintaining an aura of glamour and unattainability that added to their allure. They were the epitome of style and sophistication, embodying the essence of high fashion and luxury in a way that had never been seen before.

As the fashion industry evolved, so did the role of supermodels. Their influence extended beyond the glossy pages of magazines to the realm of celebrity endorsements and brand collaborations. Supermodels became ambassadors for luxury brands, lending their credibility and star power to marketing campaigns that helped drive sales and elevate brand visibility.

In many ways, the supermodel era of the 90s laid the foundation for the influencer culture we see today. While the platforms and mediums may have changed, the essence of influencer marketing can trace its roots back to the era of supermodels who defined an entire generation with their beauty, style, and grace. Much like the supermodels of the 90s, today's influencers hold the power to shape trends, influence consumer behavior, and drive brand engagement in the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing and social media.

Influencer Marketing Strategies and Impact

 Here are a few of the strategies employed by influencers and their impact on modern-day marketing and what I remember about the iconic supermodels of the 90s.

The Power of Influence

• Storytelling: Influencers are adept storytellers, weaving brand messages seamlessly into their content. This storytelling approach emotionally connects consumers, making the brand more relatable.

• Influencer Collaborations: Brands often collaborate with influencers on product launches, campaigns, and events. These partnerships leverage the influencer's reach and credibility to create buzz around the brand.

• User-Generated Content: Influencers encourage user-generated content by prompting their followers to share experiences with the brand. This user-generated content serves as authentic testimonials, further boosting the brand's credibility.

Comparing Influencer Marketing with Supermodel Icon Status

• Reach and Engagement: While 90s supermodels like Cindy Crawford and Naomi Campbell graced magazine covers and runways, influencers reach millions of followers through social media platforms in real-time.

• Authenticity vs. Aspiration: Supermodels of the 90s embodied unattainable beauty standards, whereas influencers show a more authentic and relatable image, resonating with the digital-savvy consumer.

• Brand Collaborations: Supermodels were often the faces of high-end fashion houses, while influencers collaborate with a diverse range of brands, from luxury labels to indie startups, reflecting the democratization of fashion and marketing.

The supermodels of the '90s achieved celebrity status primarily through their work in the fashion industry. Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss, and others graced top fashion magazine covers, walked prestigious designers' runways, and starred in high-profile ad campaigns. 

While influencers and supermodels may operate in different eras and platforms, both share a common goal: to captivate audiences and shape popular culture. While influencers harness the power of social media and authenticity, '90s supermodels epitomized glamour and mystique. 

Ultimately, whether you're scrolling through your Instagram feed or flipping through a fashion magazine, the influence of these iconic figures is undeniable, shaping our perceptions of beauty, style, and success one swipe and tap at a time.