Using Superstition As A Hook
Since today is Friday the 13th, it seemed like the perfect time to talk about interacting with your readers at a really deep level - so deep in fact that it’s almost spooky. I’m talking about superstitions here. We humans are a superstitious lot, and I’d be willing to bet that even the sanest, most practical amongst us still have some superstitions lurking deep within them. (Just don’t expect them to ever admit to it!)
So here’s what I’m suggesting. Make use of the various superstitions and related “holidays” to serve interesting content to your users. You don’t want to make fun of your users beliefs or cause them to feel judged for having those beliefs, but you do want to present your content in an interesting or humorous way. Do your best to tie the superstition into the topic of your site, and give your readers something fun that helps them to visualize your site, topic, or product in a new and interesting light.
Writing fun, creative content can be difficult to do, so take advantage of those times each year when the day itself helps generate ideas for you. By combining holidays with superstitions, you have the chance to create compelling content that engage and entertain your readers. When you can hook into a reader’s deepest emotions like that, you stand a very good chance of being remembered, and creating that memory could mean the difference between having a drive-by reader, and a long-term user.
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Posted on June 13th, 2008 by DazzlinDonna
Filed under: Forming Connections
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Good one, Donna. However I’ve always felt that whatever risks there may be today at least TGIF.
Can’t disagree with that logic, Barry!
Didn’t even realize it was Friday the 13th until I read this post. I try not to be superstitious but like you said I think it can be a good way to connect with users and push out great content.
Hah, I love that your post is utilizing the very hook you’re writing about.
Didn’t realize today was the 13th either.