I hate to admit it, but for the most part self promotion is a popularity contest, and a strong following proves that you are marketable. In many cases, having a large fan base can be a deal maker (and if you don’t have one, a deal breaker).  Everyone knows that dedicated motivated fans will do most of the marketing for you. When people share your vision, and you have won them over, they want to get involved and share you and your work with others. How to recruit a following?

•  It starts with you. Lead by example. Be the real deal.
•  Let them take a test drive.
•  Make it easy for them to join the club
•  Make them feel special
•  Solve their problems
•  Teach them something they didn’t know
•  Touch them deeply
•  Find common ground. Is there a cause that you and the people you want as fans share? Something you are both emotionally and passionately dedicated to? If there is, get involved in some way
• Do more than they expect.
• Stay connected.  Come up with clever ways to keep them motivated and committed to your common cause – you. It doesn’t have to be a big deal. Give them a good reason to visit your website for current, relevant, and useful information.
• How can others share in your dream? Ask and you shall receive.
• Reward them for their loyalty.
• Keep them coming back for more.
• Make them feel welcome, special, part of something big.
• Connect on a personal level.
• Make it fun to do business with you
• Give insider information to your fans.
• Less is more. Focus on your most motivated people and you will be able to serve them and offer that much needed one on one connection.
• Give to get. From time to time give away an idea, referral, help, advice to someone in need.
• In with the old. What about the people you already have a relationship with? How can you get them more involved in what you do? Ask them.