Gratitude Marketing: Spotlight on a Social Cynic
This year has been a mixed bag, both in terms of business and the political scene. On the one hand, business is up. On the other hand, people’s expectations are higher than ever. The election has created a country divided, with many unable to disagree in a civil manner.
What’s in it for me?
The atmosphere in the country right now seems to be “I’ve got mine–too bad for you.” There is a divisiveness to conversations on social media, with people unfriending, arguing, and a lot of spewing and venting. And it’s funny that while writing these words, I keep imagining what Andy Roony would say. I don’t think he’d be happy about what’s happening.
Why Focus on Gratitude?
Mike Sciortino, who wrote a book and trademarked “Gratitude Marketing®” had this to say,
“Traditional Marketing speaks at people. Gratitude Marketing® engages and connects with people. When you combine relationship-building with consistent nurturing, you create clients for life.”
Thinking of customers first is one of the hallmarks of a successful business. So maybe Gratitude Marketing is an old-fashioned idea, successfully repackaged. And it’s certainly an idea that Baby Boomers and others can take to heart.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJ9UtuWfs3U
A Leap of Faith
Personally, I think we need all the positivity and gratitude and beauty we can get right now. As tough as it may be to have that focus, it’s critical to move forward. We all need to assume that other people are good. Most of them, anyway. And we need to find ways to engage in a civil way. It seems simplistic, but peace really is every step, as Thich Nhat Hanh states. When he talks about “deep listening,” that it can create transformation and healing, could that not also be applied to our business lives?
Well said! I agree that we need as much positive energy as possible!
Thank you, Justine! It’s not always easy to stay positive, but it has its rewards.
Carol
Hi Carol
Being able to see things from the perspective of others is essential to succeed in marketing. Furthermore it can be invaluable in life. So much conflict stems from an inability to do this.
I hope your country can get through this troubled time.
Clement
Hi Clement,
I wish our politicians thought the way you do. It’s tough not to be cynical at this point.
Thank you for your thoughtful comments.
Carol
I agree with what Clement wrote but I also agree with you. Carol. “It’s tough not to be cynical”.
Hi Patricia,
When you see people being rewarded for being greedy and self-serving, it’s really tough. We’d all like virtues like generosity to be rewarded, right?
But sometimes we do need to move forward despite everything. (Is that cynical?)
Thank you for all the blog comments lately–I do appreciate every one!
Carol