How to connect with the audience

Key Concepts:

• Audience/Client Relationship: The importance of building a strong connection with the audience beyond just financial transactions.
• Pre-Release Engagement: Engaging the audience with the story of the project's creation before its official release.
• Post-Release Engagement: Continuing the storytelling experience even after the project's completion.
• Two-Way Street: The reciprocal nature of the relationship between creator and audience, where giving leads to increased engagement.

Building a Strong Audience Relationship

The core argument is that cultivating a deep relationship with the audience (or client/customer) is essential for success. It's not solely about extracting money from them. The speaker emphasizes that their relationship with their audience has always been exceptionally close, extending beyond periods of active selling.

The Story Before the Story

The speaker highlights the importance of engaging the audience long before the official release of a product (e.g., a movie). The "story" begins with the narrative of how the project comes together. This pre-release engagement involves weaving a tale about the creation process itself.

Extending the Experience Beyond the Product

The speaker emphasizes that the storytelling shouldn't end when the product is consumed (e.g., when the movie credits roll). A skilled creator can maintain the audience's engagement even after the initial experience is over. This is achieved through continuous interaction and communication.

The Reciprocal Nature of Engagement

The relationship with the audience is described as a "two-way street." The more the creator gives to the audience (e.g., through interaction, behind-the-scenes content, etc.), the more the audience wants to return and engage further. This creates a positive feedback loop.

Critique of Disengaged Creators

The speaker expresses bewilderment at filmmakers (or creators in general) who choose not to interact with their audience. This lack of engagement is seen as a missed opportunity to build loyalty and deepen the connection with the people who consume their work.

Conclusion

The main takeaway is that fostering a continuous, two-way relationship with the audience is crucial for long-term success. This involves engaging them before, during, and after the release of a product, creating a deeper connection that goes beyond mere financial transactions. The speaker views audience engagement as an integral part of the storytelling process itself.