The relationship between personal marketing and sincerity.



I had a good talk with a friend tonight about the fine line of balance that exists between these two things which many artists value the same.  I do.

The conflict that occurs, of course, is how marketing yourself can often feel like a desperate call for help.  "Look at me!  I'm over here!  I have a voice!"

Honestly though, it often is.  In a world that is absolutely up to it's head in market saturation among many different disciplines, to truly be noticed and listened to regularly requires, first of all, a certain stamina.  You must be fully educated in your given discipline, and have something truly unique to say.  Above this however, there is always the risk of posting things that are 'hot' or just popular in the current digital time, even if it sacrifices an otherwise more passionate interest of yours.

Many bloggers, such as Seth Godin, would undoubtedly argue the underlying empowering age that this dilemma creates.  In my unashamedly influenced opinion, I feel that it is more crucial than ever to be truly sincere and passionate in the topics you wish to discuss, or the projects you wish to pursue.

This is coming from a striving artist's point of view, though I feel it can apply to many.

What content will stand out in this era when the internet is equally overpopulated as our planet?  I believe it calls for a certain love, a certain interest in the given subject that might have been able to be faked before.  It calls for you to understand yourself fully - knowing exactly what things you love, and what provokes you?  Which topics need to be addressed?

It's an age where you need to know yourself more than the market you wish to be a part of.

What is most relevant to you right now?

Listen to yourself, you probably know the answer deep down somewhere.

1 comment:

  1. Arts marketing has become more intimate than ever. Advertising/promotion can only be an open dialogue and branding is as much an awareness of both your demographic, audience, group, tribe etc. as it is yourself. Well put Garth.

    It's that same intimacy that gives us such a great advantage. Understanding our own desires while remaining constantly engaged with a focused and immediate group can lead to the benefits and spoils of true loyalty. (Go read about Kevin Kelly's "1,000 True Fans" if you haven't already!)

    Content needs to be opt-in and full of audience benefits. The best online marketing hubs are no longer promoting products - they're promoting ideas peripheral to their products. They are aiming to earn the trust of their people, they're learning to offer them free, high quality content that truly resonates with them. The result is a loyal group that wants to support because they believe in what you are doing. I think that more than ever this applies to artists, musicians and creators of all types.

    I'm with you. Bottom line - believe in what resonates with you and find a way to reiterate that to your own people. There is nothing more elegant and effective than a good conversation with people who want to listen and contribute.

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