Hook ‘Em In!
In the photo above, the man in the circular shape is is of course Harry Houdini. Houdini was not only a great magician and escape artist in the early 1900’s, he was also a remarkable marketer. He knew how to use what at the time was an effective way to market: publicity stunts. This can still be used today but not likely to have the same impact. You see, this was pre television, cable, internet and more, so people gravitated to live entertainment. Houdini’s stunts were done in public places such as hanging upside down and escaping from a straight jacket. This stunt would lead to flyers being passed around to the gathered crowd announcing his live performance later in the evening.
Go After Individuals Who are Motivated to Buy
How does this link to social media? The connection is the need to get the prospect excited in finding something they desperately need, much like the gaping gatherings viewing Harry. With social media you need to know exactly what you want your viewer to do, or your paid ads worthless. For example, you could want the prospect to click on your Facebook ad about a free marketing video. When the prospect clicks, she or he is taken to video that promotes your services while at the same time has a benefit for them that motivates them to watch the video in the first place.
Get ‘Em Excited
In our example we want the future customer to watch the video to become informed. There might also be an offer for purchasing your product and/or joining your newsletter that means you get their email. With their email you can always sell to them later. Remember, just like Harry Houdini did with his crowds many years ago, you’ve got to rev up your future customer!