“Let’s give them something to talk about” sang Bonnie Raitt back in the early 90′s, just about the time she was in a relationship with a much younger man.
For better or for worse, a hot topic is always an attention grabber!
Now you may or may not want to put your love life in the spotlight, but you can certainly gain attention and capture the attention of your market by throwing a hot topic out in social media, video, your blog, even in an email to your list.
Hot topics are ones that irresistibly invite others to chime in… it’s the type of conversation that sparks comments, shares, likes, and can also position you exactly where you want to be: as the conversation STARTER, the thought LEADER, the visible expert at the heart of it all.
Here are some examples of ways you can start a hot topic on your blog, in social media, online video, emails, or whatever mediums you choose. Don’t limit yourself and be creative!
1. Does this bug you too?
Let’s say you’ve experienced something over and over that’s completely put a burr in your saddle. Bad customer service. Arrogance. Cheap sales tactics. Bait and switch. By simply naming the problem (not naming the name, that’s going for nasty and we’re trying to use this as a tool to help your business, not mete out revenge on people who tick you off) you suddenly open the flood gates for other people to chime in. It’s a great way to lead a conversation towards a solution and find like minded people who you want to align with.
2. Elephant Under the Rug
Like the first example, The Elephant Under the Rug often exposes a problem that most people choose to step around. Find a way to bring it to the public eye in a way that gets people to open up, share, and come back to you.
3. Which One Should I Go With?
A very fast and easy way to spark a conversation that leads to more visibility is to present a choice you’re about to make to your followers and ask for their input. For example, let’s say you just had a session with a photographer and you need to decide which photo to use for a headshot. Put the images out on Facebook and have your followers give you their two cents. The final decision is ultimately up to you, but just think of the anticipation this will build up to as they wait for the big reveal on your site! Traffic!
4. Click LIKE If You Agree
Getting LIKES on Facebook, especially on your Fan Page, will bring more eyes your way. Find an image with an inspiring message and post it to Facebook. Then post it with the message “Click LIKE if you agree” and watch how people respond. You can also ask them to SHARE it if they agree (as an alternative.)
Make the decision today to be a conversation STARTER and a thought LEADER in your marketing. Use these strategies to turn heads toward YOU.
Remember: visibility is the doorway to opportunity. Get more visibility with these Hot Topic strategies.
I’d love to know what Hot Topics you’re starting on your blog, social media, etc. Please post a comment with a link below!
About Nancy Marmolejo
