Wait! What?
Did I really say that?
Yes, everyone is a marketer.
If the idea of being a marketer makes you uncomfortable (or makes you want to procrastinate with a long list of other things) it’s time for a rethink.
Think of the marketing that’s been ‘done’ to you. Do any of these ring a bell? (Hopefully not a door bell..)
- Unsolicited emails for pills you don’t need.
- Ads on TV that you’re never interested in.
- Cold calls from people trying to sell you something – how did they even get your number?
- The well-meaning – but annoying – charity collectors who block your path and then try to guilt you into donating.
- The skin care salesperson who stops you to ask what you’ve been using on your skin, as if they wish to have a conversation. You soon work out that their reason for stopping you is only to imply that whatever it is isn’t doing a very good job.
Most of those are quite unappealing, annoying and verging on rude.
So, of course, you don’t want to do that.
The NEW marketer
When you talk about a subject that means a lot to you, you’re a marketer.
When you communicate with people, you’re a marketer.
Fundraising for a cause you care about is marketing.
If you’re coordinating a group of people, you’re a marketer.
When you create a product or service that meets the needs of another, you’re a marketer.
Supporting what you’ve provided is marketing.
If you’re spreading ideas, you’re a marketer.
Bringing hope to people is marketing.
Building relationships is marketing.
When you bring something you care deeply about to others, and share it with them, you’re a marketer.
If you relate stories to people who want to hear from you, you’re a marketer.
YOU are a marketer.
And so you need to know your purpose so you can best serve the people who need you. And you must be sure that what you share with them is both welcome and ethical.
You have the choice – and opportunity – to do your best marketing for those you seek to serve.
Let’s do it.
PS. I’m still keen to know how I can support you in your marketing, so head over to this post on Facebook and let me know.
I’m giving away a copy of Seth Godin’s book “This is Marketing – You can’t be seen until you learn to see” to someone who gives me great feedback.