Recently, I came across a link to a video on the subject of fun and creativity. The link came to me two ways–as a on-line posting from the creator of the video, Michael Bungay Stanier, to a discussion group for coaches and from an acquaintance who is a maven for finding interesting things on the web. Viral marketing at its best.
I LOVED the video. The animated video shows the Eight Irrestistible Principles of Fun, set to the music of a well-known orchestral piece. It’s fun, relaxing to watch, and fresh. While the five minute video is playing there are four options as next steps:
- Send to a friend (reinforcing the notion of viral marketing)
- Sign up for the Michael’s ezine (the start of a new customer relationship)
- Order the Eight Principle card set (BINGO! conversion from window shopper to
customer) - Contact Michael (the start of a new customer relationship)
When the video ends, it takes you to a page that outlines the last 3 options again. I liked what I saw so much that I emailed Michael about the possibility of being an affiliate (selling his products on my website) and bought the Eight Principles card set. I also sent the link for the video to all of my past and current coaching clients. Hmm….this one video got me to take three of the four suggested actions. Not bad.
Now, here’s what is really remarkable. I had been exposed to Michael and his products several times before seeing the video. He had been a guest on Shirley Anderson’s Coaching Salon and afterwards, Shirley, a friend who I trust and admire, raved about him in her follow-up notes. I had seen another of Michael’s products featured in a magazine that I subscribe to, choice. And I had seen Michael in-person at the ICF conference not more than two weeks ago in San Jose. At the conference, Michael was a moderator for a panel on developing coaching products and talked about his own experience in developing products.
But it wasn’t until I saw his video that I got engaged in who Michael Bungay Stanier is and what he has to offer. Funny how that works.
Welcome to the new world of marketing. Sure, recommendations from friends can help, as well as write-ups in respected publications. Even meeting the man behind the product helps. But what got me hooked was giving me a great experience. So ready for a great experience?
(BTW–If you decide to buy the Eight Principles card set, do me a favor and use my affiliate link to order from. This ensures I get credit for steering you to Michael’s website. I haven’t gotten my card set yet but once I do, I’ll play with them and do a review of the cards on my website before officially offering up the affiliate link.)
Okay, now on to the experience. Click on the link below for 5 minutes that will
make you smile. Enjoy! www.eightprinciples.com