Seven Golden Rules of Cult Branding

by BJ Bueno
Why do people love this brand?

Why are they so loyal to it?

What does this brand mean to them?

Why? Why? Why!

The seven rules pointed out won't tell you everything there is to know about Cult Branding, but they will give you a nice overview and practical framework to utilize in your own marketing adventures. Think of this list as your indispensable "Cult Branding Cliff Notes." 

#1 – The Golden Rule of Social Groups
Consumers want to be part of a group that’s different.

#2 – The Golden Rule of Courage
Cult-Brand inventors show daring and determination.

#3 – The Golden Rule of Fun
Cult Brands sell lifestyles.

#4 – The Golden Rule of Human Needs
Listen to the choir and create Cult-Brand evangelists.

#5 – The Golden Rule of Contribution
Cult Brands always create customer communities.

#6 – The Golden Rule of Openness
Cult Brands are inclusive.

#7 – The Golden Rule of Freedom
Cult Brands promote personal freedom and draw power from their enemies.

The conclusion of Buenos rules comes easily: an interesting thing starts happening after you've asked a lot of questions for a long enough period of time. Not only do you start getting some really good answers, but you begin to see patterns and similarities between the responses that you receive. The consumer is the most important party in creating a brand, you must not concentrate on your own vision of the brand, but use the customer’s needs and desires.

Sandra T