Writing For The Team & Why Controversy Kicks Ass
Aloha friends (pretending like I’m in Maui right now),
The other day I sent out a email to the previous blog post and it sure did stir a few feathers. If you look in the comments section you’ll see a lot of people were really peeved at the material I decided to send them to.
And I’ll admit, it’s definitely not up everyone’s alley. Heck, there is a barrage of F-Bombs, and humor that many over 40 years of age might not have a clue about. But for many others it was incredibly funny. And some just got a kick out of watching the comment debate take off. I know I did.
I received some email from people asking me… “Are you fricken crazy? You’re gonna lose a bunch of subscribers”.
Truth is, I don’t write my blog posts to appease everyone. If I did, it would be dull, bland, and like 99% of all the other marketing blogs you see on the net. I never want my blog to become some boring, lame ass website that has to abide by bubble gum marketing standards just to make everyone happy.
And no, I’m not worried about the people who unsubscribed from my list. It’s their loss, not mine. And truth be told, the majority of those who unsubscribed, will be right back here reading again even though they swear they hate the material.
Think about it. Are there any marketers that you just despise and can’t stand? If so, it’s quite likely you still visit their website to see what type of shenanigans they are up to. It’s human nature. For some odd reason we still are captivated by people who think 180 degrees opposite of us. Maybe it’s some weird validation thing about needing to be right. I don’t really know.
What I do know is that millions of people can’t stand Howard Stern, yet they listen everyday. And those people who loathe everything he does are subjected to the same ads the raving fans have to listen to. So, in actuality, pissing off some people really works well many times.
But the truth is, I’m not purposely trying to offend anyone. I’m just living my life the way I want to do it. And because of that, I have a loyal following of readers who want to see what I’ll say next. And some of that loyal following are people that don’t agree with much of what I say. They are those weirdo’s like myself who “Listen to the enemy”. Geez, I used to listen to Rush Limbaugh for a few years and I can’t stand that guy at all. Somehow, I was attracted to listening to his selfish and mean spirited rants even though he stood for everything I considered evil. Weird stuff.
Anyways, when I write I don’t consider who I’m going to offend. I think about who I’m going to make laugh, make buy, or bring value into their life. And I’m going to do it almost entirely on my terms.
Am I sacrificing profits by doing this? Many seem to think so. But somehow, I beg to differ. You see, I would not have the readership base I have if I was a plain vanilla character who was afraid to cross the line. People expect me to do weird and crazy stuff on this blog. That is what I’ve been doing since day one. In fact, I think it’s been a bit too tame. It may be time to turn on the heat a bit on the controversial posts. Because the truth is, the more controversial and edgy it is, the more action the post will get.
While I may alienate a small group of people who will bitch and complain, there are dozens more in the background that are loving every bit of it and afraid to publicly speak up. And some have balls and have no problem giving the 2 thumbs up.
But what saves me is that most people know deep down, under the controversial message or provocative statements that I’m truly a nice and sincere guy who cares about others. I care about your success, your well being, your family, and all that encompasses your life. I even care for those that blast negative comments on the blog. Heck, I deserve it anyways as I did ask for feedback. I wouldn’t want anyone to hold back their true feelings.
And that is what you get on my blog. My true feelings.
Too many marketers are scared shitless to print their true feelings and thoughts on a public forum. They are worried about what others may think, or how their reputation will hold up after something that is deemed edgy. Or they are worried about the profits.
Fuck the profits. I never worry about that. Because the real method is to be true to yourself and the profits have a way of taking care of themselves. Many people stay on my lists and read this blog because they know I don’t hammer them over the head with marketing pitches every single day. Of course I’d maybe make a bit more short term income if I sold more, but that’s not my goal on this blog.
I’m here to write “FOR THE TEAM”. I consider most of us a big team that helps each other to have fun, increase our business, and move forward in life. Of course my path is not the path for everyone, but I do believe that the things I share with others have a purpose, a benefit, and a agenda to help you.
And sometimes, even if you are a conservative old geezered who thinks I’m a punk kid ruining everything that’s great about marketing, even you can learn a thing or two. The silly videos with swearing even have their purpose, but I don’t expect everyone to grasp that. And for those that don’t and want to jump ship, good riddance. I hope your travels take you to great places.
But for those of you that have been reading for years, and taking my advice when I do recommend a product here and there, I want to thank you. I really enjoy the interaction with you, and making content that can somehow benefit you in some way. Even if it’s only a laugh for the day.
This new year is about to get nutty. I’ve got a lot of crazy stuff up my sleeve and have a feeling this blog and my marketing stuff is about to take off like a scud missle.
Tonight is new years eve. Please have fun, kiss your loved one, and be safe.
And come back and read tomorrow!
Peace,
Jason
gain. I’m really stoked because I just moved into a new house and my office view is so amazing and inspiring. I’m going to get a lot of work done in this house.
