Storytelling Marketing: Understanding The Promise of a Payoff

Why You Must First Deliver the Promise.

If you’re a social media / content marketer, or just building your personal brand… there’s a concept you NEED to be aware of.

As you probably know, there are different elements of a story.

I want to single out one of those elements because I see so many posts ignore this.

It’s this: 👉 the promise of a payoff.

Every time you post, you are asking your audience to invest their time, attention, energy, etc.

People don’t invest without the possibility of that investment paying off more than what they put in.

So before you deliver the value and make good on their investment, you must first tell them what they could potentially receive.

In storytelling, this is called the promise of a payoff.

Essentially, ‘I promise to deliver XYZ. I respect your time, I value your attention (and I don’t take it for granted), and if you stay with me, you’ll gain something valuable in return. Whether it’s knowledge, inspiration, actionable tips, or whatever.’

Make sure your audience knows exactly what’s in it for them before you dive into your content.

Otherwise, your message may lack the pull to keep them engaged.

Too often I see people post giant walls of text on their LinkedIn. That isn’t a post, that’s work. You want me to read all that? Tell me what I may gain from it first, then I will decide if it’s worth my while.

Remember, deliver the promise first, then deliver the payoff.

What Brands Can Learn from Subcultures to Create Brand Loyalists

The importance of subcultures for youths cannot be overstated. These groups offer identity, belonging, and community—elements that are just as crucial for brands seeking to build loyal followings. By taking lessons from subcultures in authenticity, community building, and differentiation, brands can create lasting connections with their audiences.

Building brand loyalists isn’t just about selling a product—it’s about creating a sense of belonging and purpose. It’s about recognizing that in a world where conformity is often the norm, those who celebrate individuality and cultivate genuine communities will stand out. Just as subcultures provide a refuge for those seeking to find their tribe, brands that foster real connections will turn customers into loyal advocates who champion their message far and wide.

That sense of community could be the difference between a one-time transaction and a lifetime of loyalty.

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