That’s right, I said it. The Real Housewives.
The show guys love to hate but are coerced into occasionally watching because your gal is drawn to them like a train wreck – she finds it impossible to look away.
I have to admit, I’m fascinated. I love Andy Cohen, who’s their Exec Producer and Chief Housewives Wrangler, and I love that they’re an engrossing study in human behavior. (A casual study I’ve conducted most of my adult life). Sure, they’re crazy and over-the-top, but there are lessons to be learned here folks. The Real Housewives can teach us a thing or two about Social marketing.
What you say? Yep, you heard it here first, my friends. If you want to see how Social is done, look no further. Here are some quotes from the gals. Each one is pearl on the subject of Social Media best practices.
“When times get tough, you know who your real friends are.” (Teresa/New Jersey) Recession or no, spending time writing and publishing awesome content has its rewards. Time and effort spent on cultivating relationships with your customers pays off. When times are lean, your fans and followers will support your initiatives. Enlist your “Raving Fans” to help promote your store. They already talk about you with their friends and family.
“I’m not afraid to say what everyone else is thinking.” (Ramona/New York) Dealers have had to live down a stereotype for years. Most all of us have heard or been the subject of a joke or two. Add humor to your Social marketing. Call it out, make it fun, shine the light on the absurdity. Be remarkable.
“Let me tell you something about my family. We’re as thick as thieves and we protect each other ’til the end.” (Caroline/New Jersey) Consider your fans and followers as part of your store’s family. Dig your well before you’re thirsty. Nurture your community by staying connected through Social Media. When a negative review is written about your store, or when you get a “hater” on your Facebook page, your loyal fans will right the ship.
“A wig does not count as a hat, honey.” (Phaedra – to Kim /Atlanta) If you missed this episode of the Housewives, Kim shows up to Phaedra’s baby shower without the proper attire (a hat), but she still wore her signature wig. With Social marketing, always show up with your best. Know the rules, the language, and the etiquette before you start. Your store’s brand is on-stage and what you share, says a lot about you.
“Life is about changes. Sometimes you have to roll with the punches.” (Caroline again…she’s so quotable!) Nothing has changed more in the last few years than the way customers want to buy and service their cars. You may still want to do business the old way but let’s face facts, the customer is now the media. Social Media is how your customer wants to communicate with you. It’s a whole different dynamic and rolling with the changes increases your sales and online reputation.
“When I walk in a room, I own it!” (Nene/Atlanta) Confidence in your uniqueness sells. What is it about your store that brings people to buy from you again and again? Define and develop a consistent marketing strategy before you “walk in the room”. If you need help, hire a content strategist. Own it!
“I’m living the American dream, one mistake at a time.” (Kelly/New York – off the show now but worth a mention) Don’t be afraid to fail. In fact, fail often. Your Social audience is forgiving (as long as you know what to do with missteps). When it happens, there’s an opportunity to connect on an even deeper level with your audience. Successful marketing tests the boundaries. You won’t achieve greatness unless you fail once in a while.
“Journalism is hard to do. It’s not something I practice up on everyday.” (Alexis/Orange County – gotta love her) Please, for the sake of your brand, hire someone to design and create your content. What you say online conveys what your customer will experience when they buy from you, so make sure it’s right. The best way to approach it is with a great content strategy that remains true to your brand.
Are you a fan (or fascinated even) with the Real Housewives? What nuggets would you add to this list?
