Written by: Vickie Sullivan | January 28, 2020
How Cults Create Community
I have a healthy respect for articles that just call the game and lay out the tactics. So, an article Fast Company published last year about the “cults” of brands got a double dose of my attention.
Key quote: “Local hierarchies, massive traditions, doctrine, an arsenal of stories—you can weaponize a superbrand.” Umm—let’s not go that far. Here are two tactics we can use to generate loyalty and excitement. Here are my two favorites:
• Love bombs. A lot of cults do this in a group setting. While I wouldn’t recommend getting overly involved in personal lives, we can support each other online and in small groups. So, ask yourself: What can you do to show folks they are important to you?
Listen: Love Bombs that Work for Thought Leaders
• Creating (and demonstrating) a value system. No, I don’t recommend helping your folks think they are better than everyone else. But when we share the same values, the bonding can’t be underestimated. The key: consistent and continual demonstration of those values. This is something that has to be shown, not told.
Yes, this article is pretty radical. Let’s move past that, though, and check out the tools used. We can use these techniques to serve the greater good.
Now Read This: