Last week I went to check out Suze Orman’s talk on her new book, The Money Class. I walked into a packed and oversold house and the only open seats were in the front row. I had no choice but to sit there. I was three feet from the stage, with nothing to do but look up and watch her strut her stuff. I liked her more live, and apparently, she liked me too — because she pointed out the entire front row, thanking all her peeps for their friendship. There I was, part of Suze’s tribe — I was sitting with all her friends that used to work with her at the Buttercup Cafe in Berkeley about 25+ years ago before she got her big break.
Suze’s book says that we all have to go back to school, take the Money Class, and learn new lessons. In terms of real estate, she says, the New American Dream is about renting versus owning; we can expect to see lots more foreclosures happening the rest of this year. Suze is rigorous about her beliefs, and she is usually right. She has this to say about relationships and dating: “Check their FICO scores before having sex!”
Speaking of relationships, last night I checked out Ethan Watters, author of the new book Urban Tribes. This book explores the nationwide phenomenon of singlehood, and how our commitment to our tribe actually keeps us single. He even has the Top Five Things to Tell Your Parents When You are Still Single at the Age of 30-35-40. It’s a great read.
Ethan also mentioned some research that resonates with our Customer 2.0: check their “blind networks.” The true influencer is someone who can reach beyond their immediate tribe and network with the friends or friends of friends. Our 2nd- and 3rd-degree contacts on LinkedIn are what really matter.
Who’s in your tribe? Whose tribe are you in?
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