The Content Marketing Weekly Wrap Up – Campfire Stories
Posted by Beth Hrusch on Fri, Jul 03, 2009
There's a commercial out there for a well-known outdoor supplier. People are gathered 'round the campfire, having a good time, and the slogan goes:
"The Coleman Campsite: The Original Social Networking Site"
Brilliant!
You went to camp when you were a kid, right? What was your favorite part of the experience? Well, my camp experience was limited, but I remember being deeply impressed with the campfire. You know, the part where it's dark and spooky and everyone huddles together to toast marshmallows and hear weird stories that always had a part where you got scared, screamed and ran back to your cabin.
Why is the campfire so important to us? What primal need does it fulfill? Well, as the Coleman Co. reminds us, the campfire is a social place. Eating, talking and sharing ideas are all done around the fire. The campfire brings us together, and makes us feel like we aren't alone in a big, scary world.
At this communal well, humans tell stories and offer information. They create deep and lasting bonds with each other. Imagine doing that with your customers and colleagues. Are your content marketing efforts bringing your people together? Is your site, blog or fan page the place where they can gather around and get the information they need?
People will come to your fire, listen to your stories and even contribute their own insights- but only if you offer them something of value. A comfortable place to hang out and a lot of useful information go a long way. Check out Why Content and Social Media are a Powerful Match by Sonia Simone. Seth Godin talks about the tribe, but whatever you call them, your people are your online family. They share your interests and they want to connect with you.
Your content marketing strategy should give you the power to summon them. Build the fire, and they will come. Hopefully with bug spray.