The Diversity Dynamic...

 

 

(How to use it to Keep Your Business “in the Black”!)

“Variety is the spice of life.”

Some time ago, I received a comment from a reader that truly "spoke" to my heart.
This blog follower and financial analyst wrote: “I just love how you’re able to communicate with so many different audiences.”

In fact, over the years, this sentiment has been echoed by others as well.
What I realized, when I took time to reflect, was that this diversity of expression and “voice“ with a range as broad as Mariah Carey, was responsible for my longevity in this business, a diverse publishing portfolio, and consistent paychecks, (even in a struggling economy).

And it can do the same for you.

In this pluralistic world we now live, diversity is an evolving “mainstay.”

Think about it. For the first time in American history, we have a president that doesn’t reflect the majority. We have our first female, Hispanic Justice of the Supreme Court in Sonia Soto Mayor, and there are more and more “Mr. Moms” staying at home to raise kids while their wives report to the office. Not to mention, the advent of the Internet and rampant unemployment is contributing to a generation of online entrepreneurs like never before.

With this being the case, the more versed we become as writers in addressing the expanding needs and changing lifestyles of our readership (and our society), the easier it becomes to build a solid career and a solid bank account.

So, how do we achieve this?

Here are a few suggestions based upon my experience.

• Read voraciously. Many would be surprised to discover that in my home library are issues of Forbes, Latina Magazine, Yoga Journal, Wine Enthusiast, and even literature produced by the Jehovah’s Witnesses. My books are so abundant, that I’ve recently had to donate some to local charities just to create more space. Curious about everything from the mundane to the miraculous, I take pride in trying to be well informed and having a broad perspective. And you should too.
• Interact with others that are not in your typical circle. It’s no secret that most of us feel more comfort socializing with those that mirror our image or share our views. But when we restrict ourselves in this way, we miss out on endless opportunities for growth and enrichment-- (and potential story ideas).

• Why not connect with bloggers from different niches? Befriend someone at work who perhaps is of a different culture? Date out of your “type”? It’s important too, to be open to new ways of looking at things. Let 2013 be your year for a paradigm shift.

• Identify exactly who your readership is. How can you possibly address their needs if you don’t know who comprises your audience?
If you’re a Blogger, Google provides analytics that will give you a glimpse of their country of origin, their URL, and their favorite posts. Another way to assess your following is through

ALEXA.COM. Here you’ll be provided with the educational background of your readers, their age group, the location (home or work) of their visits, and other useful statistics for consideration. A recent glimpse of mine, for example, revealed that my largest readership is women, who are college degreed, and between the ages of 35-54. 

Remember, writers serve important roles. We entertain, educate, and enlighten the masses. We serve as designated experts in our respective fields. The more we know, and the more well-rounded we are, the greater our appeal.

And equally as important, the more we can “write our own checks” and sustain a profitable career.


Thoughts? Agree or disagree? Do you think it's important to write for diverse audiences?


Image: Freedigitalphotos.net