· Assess Their Credibility and Reach: Ensure the communities you join have members who are respected by the decision-makers you want to target. Gauge their thought leadership, online following, and level of engagement received. An expert frequently quoted in trade publications or invited to speak at major industry events is a good example of the type of member you seek. ·Evaluate the Alignment with Your Brand: The communities of influence you choose should align with your company’s values, product offerings, and overall brand positioning. Engaging with communities of influence whose philosophy or approach is contradictory to your brand could harm your credibility rather than help it. How to Use Communities of Influence as Marketing and Sales Tactics Once you’ve identified the best communities and networks, think beyond introductions. Consider exploring some of these tactics: The right communities and networks are those whose members can serve as influencers, subject matter experts, and thought leaders for your company or product. Keep in mind these members will have the same expectation of access, thought leadership, and expertise for you and your company. Benefiting from communities of influence requires actively participating in these groups, providing valuable insights, and building relationships. Here’s a step-by- step guide on how to identify and select the right communities and networks: · Identify Key Influencers in Your Industry: Identify communities and networks with individuals or organizations that hold sway within your target market. These could be thought leaders, keynote speakers, or even prominent members of professional communities or associations dedicated to your industry. Are You in the Right Communities and Networks?
“The right communities and networks are those whose members can serve as influencers, subject matter experts, and thought leaders for your company or product.”
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