I love Google Alerts. With it, I get daily e-mail updates whenever items I’m interested in show up in the news or even on individual blogs. In the example below, I’ve highlighted a daily Google blog alert I run for the search term “WAY-FM,” the name of the station for which I work.
The results don’t always turn up relevant links (like “2-way FM radios”), but that’s often simply a matter of refining the search terms a bit.
In the case of the Jasper Walls link, I’ve found a Nashville resident who is a fan of my station. Cool huh? I’ve even been able to offer a “heads-up” in the past to other operations directors within WAY-FM Media Group when a listener in their area is blogging about them.
Sincere Engagement Is The Key
Next comes the task of engaging the author (Melissa) in a transparent and meaningful way, being careful not to freak her out in the process. If not handled properly, even someone blogging to the world can “get the creeps” when being contacted immediately after mentioning you in passing.
I’ll simply thank her for listening, admit that I too sometimes “wander,” complement her on her post if it’s sincere (and in this case it certainly is), and maybe even quiz her on her favorite music and offer to send her some free stuff (a CD, t-shirt or whatever she might show an interest in).
It is my belief that sincere gestures like this can go a long way in helping create a listener for life. Plus, it’s just plain fun to do.
Filed under: Web 2.0 | Tagged: blogs, Google Alerts, listeners, WAY-FM |
Truth...Justice...All That Stuff... 
Hey Jeff…you got me! I’m the Melissa in your post…and I’m not creeped out at all. In fact, I told me husband we’re either getting a free t-shirt to share, or that I might hit you up for Brooke Fraser….ha!
Thanks for leaving a comment on my blog. I love Jesus. I love Way-FM….which I have talked about before, but not directly naming the station…and I love free t-shirts! Thanks and come back to dig in whenever you like. I am authentic and open.
See, THAT right there is brilliant.
That makes you truly worthy of being THE Jeff Brown.
GREAT IDEA for connecting with your listeners.
You, sir, are much too kind.
Spending way too much time on the internet can teach you a lot of things.