Thursday, April 16, 2009

Susan Boyle - The Power of a Pitch-Perfect Product

If you're like me, you've heard of Susan Boyle by now. I got links to this video through email, Twitter, Facebook... in fact, I was starting to get a little sick of it. That is, until I actually clicked on the link and watched it. I'm a sucker for people who realize their dreams. And this woman does it in a big way. I dare you not to tear up. Go ahead, take a look...



If the video doesn't play, click on this link to view the clip on Tangle:
http://www.tangle.com/view_video.php?viewkey=98096bfbc280d77852ec&utm_source=newsletter416&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=weeklyvideos

From a personal perspective, Susan's story is completely amazing. Is says a lot about how we tend to judge people on outside appearances and our preconceived notions.

From a business perspective... YOWZA! Talk about a word-of-mouth storm. This clip has spread like wildfire, and it's all from people being inspired and sending it on to their friends. Now, thanks to social networking sites, we can reach several hundred friends with a few pecks on the keyboard and a click of the mouse. But the most important thing to note here is value of the product. Susan delivered a finely crafted, uplifting, entertaining performance. In other words, she has a product people want. A video on Tangle or You Tube doesn't mean squat unless the people are moved by it.

Another cool thing is to look at the judges. Those three were shocked by Susan's performance. But beyond that, they were thrilled for her. They wanted her to succeed, and they were moved by her performance. For those of us who make our living dealing with "judges" - editors, agents, etc. - it's an important thing to remember. These folks WANT us to succeed, and when we do, they are moved. When we don't provide an amazing product, their hands are tied.

Way to go, Susan! May we all dream a dream, and never let it die!

4 comments:

Krista said...

Thanks for tweeting this. Nice to see cynicism get a smack on the nose for once. =)

Jennifer AlLee said...

I agree, Krista! Let's try to form our opinions AFTER we get to know a person.

Carolynn said...

I wanted her to be good...after everyone was laughing at her. And she was!!
I love how humble and down to earth she is, she knew she was a good singer and didn't let all the cynicism get to her. I'm excited for her...can't wait to see her next performance. :)

Jennifer AlLee said...

I heard a little bit more about her on the news last night. Apparently she's never been on a date and never been kissed, and she spent much of her time caring for her 91-year-old mother who recently passed away. After all those years of humble service, looks like it's Susan's time in the spotlight. Good for her!