When I was in the eighth grade I had a group of fans. I was good at speech and drama and my fans recognized something special about me in that context. When my parents came to “parent night,” my dad said he felt like I was a movie star.
If you’re one of the lucky ones, while you were growing up, you had at least one member of your family who was your fan. They recognized what made you unique and special.
It’s funny how throughout my life I’ve had fans. You know the ones. People who just really like you. They like being around you. They get you. Usually they’re friends or colleagues. So why is it that I have spent so much time, energy and money on trying to get those who aren’t my fans, who never will be my fans, to become fans. Yes, the efforts have been futile.
Seth Godin calls it your tribe. I know what he means. I think I’ll redirect my attention to those adoring fans. You know who you are. When the skill and the fan status align, that’s when I know the working relationship will be mutually-rewarding. Plus, I get a new friend in the deal.
Who are you fans? How much of your energy is focused on them?
I’m your fan!