Issue #138: Word of mouth for tough topics
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Disease, war, famine, political issues — they’re all serious, difficult topics to bring up. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find a way to help your fans spread their support for your cause, here’s how:
1> Find a middleman
2> Find a symbol
3> Find a positive
1> Find a middleman
It’s hard for people to talk to someone they barely know about awkward or serious topics. Try to find a “middleman” — a talker with established trust with those you’re trying to reach — and educate them on your issue. Teachers, doctors, parents, or public officials could all be excellent mediators for the topics you’re trying to share.
2> Find a symbol
When the topic is too tough to talk about, give them something else to share with the world. Colors, wristbands, and themed events make it easy for people who believe in a message to share it without having to discuss diseases or world issues. If you can find something to symbolize the issue you care about, you can give supporters a way to talk without focusing on the tough details.
3> Find a positive
People are much better at sharing good news — so try to keep the themes of your topics about how you and your supporters are saving lives, curing illnesses, and changing the world. You could create a special newsletter or big celebration focused on highlighting all the great things your cause or organization has accomplished. Just remember: People are much more willing to drag in their friends if it feels like they’re having lots of success and making a difference.
