Your Tribe Needs You
As a follow up to the previous blog Followers Build Leaders, I was thinking of Seth Godin's book about Tribes. Seth argues that the tribe already exists, but it takes an individual to step in and lead the group. In some cases these leaders are individuals for example the civil rights activist Ceasar Chavez and in other cases they may be brands, for example Apple leading the charge for creative individuals seeking to change the world. In all cases, tribes need leaders. I would argue that your talents and passion should be used for your group.
As you continue to build a loyal audience, customer/client base, you will need to identify an existing need that is shared amongst your group. Skateboarders rally in cities across the US asking for support in building a local skate park because they were tired of getting kick-out of private and public spaces. The need was so great that the tribe came together to make a change. But rest assured there is always one brave soul who raises their hand and says - I'll coordinate this effort to see it through. That person is the leader and they are given the support and the permission of the tribe to lead them, as long as they deliver.
Special note: The leader in many cases is a person who has experienced the tribes pain first hand because they too are part of the tribe.
What group are you setting out to lead? What is their shared pain? Have you earned the tribes support and backing? Are you confident in your ability to lead and solve their pain?
If you're considering leading a tribe, ask yourself these simple questions.
Are you intensely passionate about your tribe?
Do you understand their needs first hand?
Do you have good ideas on how to solve the pain for the tribe?
If the answer to all is yes, then get to work!