Parasite marketing - ugly name, beautiful concept

I'm a member of our industry's professional body and today I received an e-mail offering me a special cell phone deal. If this telco had sent me the e-mail directly it would've ended up in my spam box.

By "parasiting" or "partnering" they were able to be seen by a targeted group of professionals. There is also a "feel good" factor when I receive an offer that feels like it's tailored for me and I'm in a more receptive frame of mind when I read the offer.

Another time parasiting is effective is when your brand awareness isn't strong. By parasiting with a well known brand, you will find doors can be opened more easily.

Pick your hosts carefully, to ensure they share your philosophies and strengthen your own brand.

Seek and you shall find

It’s so much easier to find what you want when you know what you are looking for.

For instance, if you think everyone is your customer it can be hard to find them. If you stop and consider what your ideal customer looks like it becomes easier to find them. For instance, if you work best with males, between 45 & 55, who are self-employed, it you are more likely to find them because you are looking just for them.

This strategy works successfully in other areas of your life too.

Looking for a partner? Write down what they look like & what attributes they have.

How about taking photos as a hobby? Giving yourself a theme narrows down the types of photos you take but helps you look more purposefully, making it easier than taking photos of anything and everything!

Looking for a new job? Write down what it looks like, what you'll be doing & how you will feel.

Work out what you are looking for, write it down – then get out & find it. You’ll be surprised how much easier it will be to find!