Friday, April 1, 2011

The Birthday Post

Today is my birthday. And, yes, it's also April Fool's Day. This is not a joke (insert snide remark here). What I find interesting is that, even if I didn't care to celebrate my birthday, I would not be able to forget it. Over the past week, I've received multiple cards in the mail. Yesterday, I received a coupon in the mail for a free drink from Starbucks and an e-card from the place that I bought a car. I woke up this morning with my Yahoo inbox flooded with special birthday offers from Kmart, Khols, Arbys, etc. As I am typing this, my 'wall' on Facebook is being continually updated with 'Happy Birthday' posts from my Facebook friends because of that little Birthday reminders box that pops up on everyone's Facebook page. My point? Even if I wanted to forget my birthday, marketers wouldn't let me.

Make me feel important. That's what birthdays are about. This is my day. I was the one who was born on April 1st (okay, and also four other Facebook friends). I'm special. Make me feel like I matter and maybe I will buy from you. Perhaps I am being naive and that's just the manipulative nature of business, but I have no problem about giving preference to those who appreciate my business. I will be using my Starbucks coupon. I will most likely buy another car from the same place. And, I don't know whether I'll make it to Kmart, Khols, or Arbys, but I at least read the emails. I like to know that people care about me, and I think others do too.

Knowing someone's birthday is a simple way to show someone that you care. Everyone has one and everyone has only one. Of how many people can you say that you actually know their birthdays? I know I would be lost without that Facebook reminder. Whether you're trying to sell them something or just be a good friend, you can't go wrong by learning their birthdays. (And if you are trying to be a good friend, you are still trying to sell them something--the importance of your relationship). So, take the advice that I offer so hypocritically. Find out the day your friend or prospect was born and wish them 'Happy Birthday' when that day rolls around.

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