© 2017 Vinny Ribas
In today’s music landscape it is critical for artists to buoild deep connections with their fans. It is the only way to keep them loyal and engaged with you. Without a conscious effort on your part, they will become easily distracted and move on to another artist who makes the effort to cater to them. Here are some ideas for deepening your fan engagement.
- Learn the names of your frequent show-goers and recognize them from stage. Nothing will make your fans feel more important!
- Collect first names with your email addresses. Mailing list programs like Mail Chimp enable you to automatically personalize your newsletters and notices.
- Personally respond to Facebook and Twitter comments/messages etc. as much as possible.
- Set aside time once a month for a fan Q&A videoconference (Skype, Hangouts, Facebook Live etc.)
- Hold contests to determine your most dedicated fans (e.g. people who share a specific post the most times ). Give the winners a special prize (e.g. 10 minute personal video call)
- Learn what they love and write songs about it. They might not ever make it to a CD. But the idea that you would take the time to cater to your fans’ interests will endear them to you.
- Ask if any of your fans will have a birthday in the upcoming month. Then wish them happy birthday by name in your newsletter and/or on you social networks. They will feel so special! Anniversaries work as well. The more personal you can make it the better!
- Ask them where you should perform. You’ll find more gig opportunities and they will feel like heroes for helping you!
- Ask them to help choose which songs you should record, post a video of etc. It lets them know their opinions are valued.
- Write and record songs about your superfans, even if they are just 1 minute long. Not everyone can say they have a song writen about them. Nothing is more personal than that.
The more personal attention you give your fans, the more they will come to shows, buy your music, buy your merch, become patrons and spread the word about you!
Vinny Ribas is an artist manager and artist consultant. He is also the CERO of Indie Connect.
