Marketers have got it wrong.
You won’t find the greatest influencers of all time on Instagram or TikTok.
But they are everywhere if you know who you’re looking for.
Here’s a clue.
That’s right kids.
Kids have weapons grade influence skills.
They have to as their survival depends on it. When they’re born they are completely helpless. Unless they can get our attention they’re in big trouble.
That’s where it all starts.
But they get better.
They watch what you do. They listen. They learn.
They understand what gets a response and what doesn’t.
If you’re a marketer, like me, don’t make the mistake of teaching them about influence and persuasion!
Actually I have no regrets teaching it because it’s a life skill that everyone should learn.
Kids are everywhere. Watch them in action.
Watch them in the supermarket.
Watch them ‘pitch’ for an ice cream on a hot day.
Watch how they strategically use ‘meltdowns’ to get what they want.
Watch how helpless most parents are in dealing with it. If it’s not your kid it’s kinda funny. If it is then not so much!
Kids are master influencers.
Watch, learn and apply.