The Power of Collective Action: From Modern Feminists to Swifties, How Women Like Us Can Shape the World
Think about it. In today’s hyperconnected world, a tweet can trigger an investigation, and a hashtag can revolutionize an industry. The truth is, when people come together, we don’t just make noise—we shift culture, shape policies, and change the game.
Can you imagine a world where your voice carries beyond boardrooms, meetings, or small social circles? Where your influence reaches others and sparks real change in society, businesses, and even governments? This is not a far-fetched dream. It’s happening right now, and women like us can be at the forefront. Whether it’s through leading groundbreaking movements or simply joining forces with others who share your values, the power of collective action has never been more accessible—or more impactful.
Take the #MeToo movement. What began as whispers shared on social media turned into a global roar, shaking some of the world’s most powerful institutions.
#MeToo didn’t just call out bad behavior—it held people accountable, rewrote industry norms, and changed laws. It started small, but through collective voices, it became unstoppable.
It’s proof that when women unite, we have the power to transform not only our own lives but also the world around us.
And here’s the thing—you don’t need to launch a worldwide movement to make an impact. In fact, smaller, more focused groups are proving to be just as powerful. Here is one example you may not have expected, yet relevant: Taylor Swift fans, or “Swifties.” You might not be a fan of her music, but what her fans did after Ticketmaster bungled her concert ticket sales is a masterclass in the power of organized groups. They didn’t just complain on social media—they took action, fueling a public outcry that led Congress to investigate Ticketmaster’s monopoly. These fans—ordinary people like you and me—showed how collective action can hold even the most dominant corporations accountable. And now, some are saying they may even have a hand in influencing the next U.S. elections. This isn’t just about a pop star—it’s about how we, as individuals in a group, can wield influence far beyond what we ever imagined.
The benefits of being part of a group extend to the individual level as well. It provides a sense of belonging and community, fosters personal and professional growth and trust through shared experiences. While digitalization and social networks have turned millions into content creators, generating an overwhelming amount of information, they have also driven people to seek more meaningful consumption habits and more authentic connections.
Consumers now choose what to consume based on purpose and values, not just price. In this context, building trust within an organized group can help you form deeper connections and influence others—whether to buy your products or collaborate on new ideas.
“But how can I start doing it, and then get the best out of it?”
Here are some tips:
- Engage Actively: Attend meetings, contribute to discussions, and volunteer for projects to build visibility and establish yourself as an active, valuable member.
- Network Purposefully: Connect with group members who align with your interests or can offer insights, mentorship, or collaboration opportunities. Focus on forming genuine, meaningful connections rather than superficial contacts.
- Leverage Resources: Take advantage of any training, workshops, or materials offered by the group to enhance your skills and knowledge.
- Share Expertise: Position yourself as a thoughtful leader by sharing your knowledge, giving presentations, or writing content for group publications or platforms.
- Contribute to Collective Achievements: Collaborate on group projects or initiatives to gain experience, recognition will help you to build influence within the group.
In 2024, collective action is about more than just protest; it’s about influence and shaping outcomes across and within industries. These aren’t fringe movements; they’re powerful demonstrations of how organized communities can tip the balance of power, compelling companies and policymakers to pay attention. Regardless of size, that’s the true power of collective action—it’s not just about protest; it’s about influence, trust, visibility, and the ability to make things happen.
