Think Like a Rockstar: Rockstars Are Fans Themselves

All week I’ll be previewing my Think Like a Rockstar session at #SMIATL on Saturday. If you would like to attend #SMIATL use code SMISPEAK to register for only $128!

I love this picture, is the audience raising their hands because Brett is, or is Brett raising her hand cause the audience is?

Rockstars are by default fans of themselves.  But this also means that they have the same mindset as their fans, and the same point of view.  As such, they are more connected to their fans, and better understand them.

Think about how a rockstar gets started: They play small local events, maybe only a dozen or 2 people show up.  Then, if they connect with their audiences, over time their fanbase will grow.  But throughout, the rockstar is connect to its fanbase and knows who they are.  They perform at clubs and bars, and then afterwards get to talk to them, share a beer with them, and learn who they are and what they like about their music.  They stay connected to their fans.

I saw an interview a few years ago with Willie Davidson, the CCO at Harley-Davidson.  CNBC asked him if HD did any type of market research to learn more about its customers and to better understand them.  Willie remarked “Oh we’re in constant contact with our customers…we ride with them all the time!’  That might sound like a smartass answer, but what Willie is saying is that he uses his products in the same way as his customers, and for the same reasons.  He knows about the ‘Harley lifestyle’ because he is living it.  As a result, he better understands Harley’s customers, because he’s talking to them every time he rides with them.

Is it any wonder that Harley-Davidson is considered a ‘rockstar’ brand?  The brand understands its customers and their point-of-view, and this is a big reason why the company has so many passionate brand advocates.

Tomorrow, we’ll look at how rockstars shift control to their fans!  If you want to attend my Think Like a Rockstar session at #SMIATL, it’s Saturday morning at 10:15 AM!

Pic via Flickr user tatu43