As an Iowa girl who grew up amidst the cornfields, “Field of Dreams” has always held a special place in my heart. The idea that “if you build it, they will come” is not only a memorable line from the movie but also a concept that many of us have taken to heart. However, as much as I love the sentiment behind those words, I’ve come to realize that in the world of business, it’s not quite as simple as Kevin Costner’s character made it seem.
Sure, the idea of constructing a baseball diamond in the middle of nowhere and having legendary players magically appear to play ball is enchanting. But when it comes to building a successful business, especially in the digital realm, relying solely on the “build it and they will come” method is a recipe for disappointment. Having a great website, writing compelling blog posts, or even starting a social media page is just the beginning. While these are essential components, they are merely the foundation upon which we must build something more substantial.
You can’t just write a blog post and expect the masses to flock to it, eager to devour your words of wisdom. Similarly, launching a website won’t automatically drive hordes of traffic your way. And simply posting a product online won’t guarantee a flood of purchases. You have to let your customers and followers know that you’ve written a new article, posted a new product, or have a new website. Waiting on SEO or the algorithm to do the job for you isn’t helping your current followers know about your latest content.
Success in business (no matter the activity) requires more than passive construction; it demands active engagement. It means reaching out to your audience, understanding their needs and desires, and offering solutions that resonate with them. It’s about actively marketing your products or services, finding out where your potential customers hang out, and meeting them there.
It’s time to put in the effort to cultivate and nurture your audience, rather than passively waiting for them to stumble upon you. Seek out opportunities to connect, engage, and build meaningful relationships with those who matter most to your business.
So, while the allure of the “Field of Dreams” may be strong, let’s remember that in the real world of business, success doesn’t come to those who simply build it. It comes to those who are willing to roll up their sleeves, engage with their audience, and actively work towards turning their dreams into reality.
My kids and I visiting the the Field of Dreams site in Dyersville, Iowa.
