Welcome to “This is So Nerdy,” the podcast where pop culture and online business collide. In today’s episode, Jess and Amy, self-proclaimed nerds and businesswomen, dive into the marketing genius of none other than Taylor Swift, affectionately known as Tay Tay to her fans.
Jess and Amy’s conversation is a heartfelt journey through their personal experiences with Taylor Swift’s music. From burning CDs to high school parking lot memories, they explore the early connections that many fans share with Swift’s music.
Taylor’s Strategic Foresight
A significant highlight of their discussion is Taylor Swift’s early grasp of her brand’s potential. Purchasing her domain name four years before her debut album showcases her incredible foresight and business savvy.
The Role of Family in Taylor Swift’s Success
The hosts ponder the influence of Taylor’s family on her career, including a rumor about her father’s involvement in boosting her initial album sales. This speculation leads to a broader conversation about the support systems behind successful artists.
Relatability and Storytelling
Jess and Amy touch on Taylor’s relatability, describing her as the “girl next door” and discussing how her authenticity has garnered a massive, dedicated fanbase. They also delve into the power of storytelling in her music and marketing strategies.
The Taylor Swift Easter Egg Phenomenon
A fascinating aspect of Taylor Swift’s marketing strategy discussed is her use of Easter eggs. Jess and Amy express their admiration for Swift’s ability to engage fans by hiding clues and messages in her work, keeping them invested and always searching for more.
Building Lasting Bonds with Customers
Jess shares a personal tactic of reaching out to her email list with a simple, yet effective message checking in on her clients and customers. This approach, inspired by someone in the industry, has consistently yielded positive responses and strengthened her customer relationships.
Amy marvels at how Taylor Swift makes each fan feel like they’re her number one. This unique ability to personalize her connection with millions creates a loyal fanbase that feels deeply connected to her story through her music.
Marketing with Authenticity
Despite her low social media profile, Swift’s authenticity shines through her work. Jess and Amy discuss how this genuine connection is something that influencers and business owners can aspire to, without the need to constantly change their ‘style’ or niche.
The Power of Subtle Marketing
The conversation shifts to the clever marketing tactics seen during the ‘Eras’ movie, highlighting how brands like Joanne’s Fabric took advantage of the Swift momentum to connect with their audience. This move is contrasted with missed opportunities by other brands, sparking a discussion on the importance of seizing the moment in marketing.
Jess and Amy speculate on the potential for brands like Nike to collaborate with Swift, discussing her past partnerships and the impact of aligning with such a powerful personal brand.
Favorite Taylor Swift Eras:
The hosts share their favorite Taylor Swift eras, with Jess expressing a preference for ‘1989’ and ‘Reputation’, while Amy provides insight into how ‘Folklore’ and ‘Evermore’ might reflect Swift’s personal life and relationships.
The episode wraps up with a reflection on the importance of staying true to one’s brand while being adaptable and responsive to customer needs. Just like Taylor Swift, businesses can find their own way to connect authentically with their audience.