Key Takeaways
- Master your chosen platform’s unique content demands to outperform competitors.
- Implement a regular posting schedule to build audience expectation and improve platform favorability.
- Cultivate genuine gratitude for all audience support to foster a positive community.
- Discover that authentic charisma or proven capability often captures audience attention effectively.
While it’s true that most working people feel somewhat jealous that they have to clock in at 9am while a 14 year old Minecraft YouTuber is out there making millions, it would be wrong to suggest content creators don’t put the work in.
It is possible to overcome this self-defeating thinking. In this post, we hope to discuss how to excel and not just succeed in this space:
Understand Your Platform Completely
Different platforms often have different rules, or at least norms that they run on to succeed. For instance, what works on a streaming platform like Twitch is going to be different to what works for a TikTok to “blow up,” as the kids say.
It’s mostly because different platforms reward different kinds of content based on what they can monetize most. The platforms are incentivized to give you more coverage if they know you’re going to appeal to the most people, but of course, what appeals to “the most people” is going to depend on what the platform serves.
So for example, Twitch often highlights people who make a given game or experience their main aim. If you’re great at strategy games or shooters, people will want to watch those high-level plays or tactical decisions. Or, if you’re naturally funny, have a good way to interact with your chat, and can be consistent in how much you interact with the platform, that might help you. Don’t assume it’s just “one thing” that works, but ensuring your own strengths are commensurate with the goals of the platform is a good idea.
Network & Perform Outreach From Your Earlier Fans
The truth is that some platforms are just a networking game as anything else. So let’s say another content creator of similar size to you reaches out to ask how you’re doing, and that they like your content. They might begin supporting you. If you do the same for them, it can lead to a nicer community bond. That allows you to begin helping one another, even through referrals or shares, or comments.
Is this artificial or inauthentic? Well, no, because you don’t have to do this to everyone, and you’re not obligated to support others just because they do you. But it’s nice to reach out when you feel it’s natural to do so, and you’d be amazed how much it can help.
Let’s continue with our Twitch example – doing collabs with other streamers, hanging out in their community, being mindful about shouting people out, it can all help you build your name and introduce yourself to more audiences. People love to see authentic people they also like, and if one content creator likes you, odds are the audience they appeal to will as well. It’s not a bad place to start, just make sure you don’t see other people as stepping stones, because that will reveal itself quite quickly.
Keep A Consistent Schedule
We spoke earlier about how algorithms will usually be attentive to those that make the platform the most money, and of course, engagement and repeated content people want to see is part of that. So keeping a consistent schedule is as good as anything else, and being reliable is also a good place to start.
For example, you might post at least three reels or TikToks a week, or make sure you upload a certain amount of video footage each week. Having a schedule and routine for how and when to post will help you not only be favored by the algorithm, but begin to grow a community that knows what to expect when.
Sure, you might see the elusive YouTuber who posts a super high-quality video every four months to get millions of views, but this is by no means the norm. So if you want your content to be pushed without any SEO efforts, consistency is very worthwhile.
Be As Charismatic, Or Capable, As You Can
This is the hard truth that many would-be content creators miss. You just have to be likeable. How is being likeable defined? Usually, through some kind of charisma, or capability. That’s mostly it.
Now, “just be great bro!” is hardly good advice, and we would never start off this section of advice with something so surface-level. However, it is important to utterly maximize what you , personally, could offer. It’s important to highlight your best qualities, be that your ability to listen, your humor, your good-nature, your life experience, your past qualifications, your humility, or just who you really are without being apologetic about it.
That can sound very vague, and in some respects it is, it’s that “x” factor that no one else can replicate. So, if you appreciate part of yourself for the virtues you naturally have (and yes, you do have them), make sure to centre it. Even someone sharing their recent reads on a booktube channel can seem endearing if they deeply, genuinely love books and want to share them. Be as charismatic, or capable, as you can.
Never Complain Or Explain
You may have heard this strange adage in relation to the British royal family, who made it something of a catchphrase. But there’s truth to it. If you’re putting yourself out there, it’s best to be a stable brand and not necessarily to pour the complexities (and sometimes indignities) of our human experience into it.
For example, there are many content creators that have gone through controversies or outright cancellations because of poor behavior otr difficulties. We’re not suggesting that to be successful you need to follow this advice, but to excel, and build a lasting preference? Yes, it’s best to try and keep your branded content persona separate from your daily real self. That doesn’t mean you can’t be a real person, it just means you have to be more mindful about what your content explores and how much of yourself you allow out there.
Think of this as a business matter. It also keeps you more consistent and mindful in the best way.
Never Demand Financial Support
It’s good to remind your audience about areas in which they can support you, be that an additional Patreon account or a subscription/sponsorship model on your channel. But if you sound entitled to it, then you’re going to come across as unforgivingly selfish. It will also alienate people.
The best thing you can do is be highly grateful for any support you do give, even if it’s marginal. If someone donates 50 cents/pence to your channel, you still need to thank them. This way you can show you’re not in it for the wrong reasons, and you appreciat anyone who spends their time with you. This is most endearing even to the people who pay the big bucks, because it shows you don’t have too high an opinion of what you put out there, and you certainly don’t feel entitled to support for it. Ironically enough, this will help you draw in support.
Consider A Management Agency Where Relevant
At a certain level, a management agency can be a massive help. They won’t tell you what to do with your content, but they can assist you in various ways. For example, if your content leaks, they can help to automate DMCA takedowns of your content and make sure that those legal requests are respected.
They can also help with outreach and referrals where it’s needed. Some platforms may benefit from this more than others. For example, an OnlyFans Agency, or a Twitch network, can help you standardize your content where appropraite, and help you override any less-than-capable marketing efforts you’ve put in place thus far. That really can make a major different in how effective your efforts have been.
Develop A Consistent, Understandable Brand
You’re a complex person, who no doubt has complex tastes and capabilities. But if you can’t explain what you profile or channel is about in a few sentences, odds are no one will be able to understand it as well as they should.
If you’re the person who makes YouTube documentaries about True Crime cases, be sure to brand yourself that way, even if you venture into financial scandals or inter-creator drama from time to time. Make sure your graphic design, name, and branding is understandable. This helps your appeal, but it also helps you to showcase your unique value-added approach compared to other people you’re competing with. Such an approach really does make a difference.
With this advice, we hope you can more easily excel, and not just succeed, as that online content creator. These principles can move you further if you adapt them to your own needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does understanding a platform help a content creator excel?
Understanding a platform means knowing what type of content it favors and what its audience expects. This knowledge allows creators to tailor their work for better visibility and engagement, rather than just hoping for success.
What are practical steps for networking with other content creators?
Start by genuinely engaging with the content of creators similar in size to you; offer support or share their work if you appreciate it. Consider collaborative projects, like joint streams or videos, which can introduce you to new audiences.
Why is a consistent content schedule so important for growth?
A consistent schedule helps platform algorithms recognize you as a reliable contributor, potentially increasing your content’s reach. It also trains your audience to anticipate your new material, building a loyal following over time.
Is it true that success in content creation is mostly luck?
While good fortune can play a part, lasting success and excelling in content creation usually come from understanding your platform, consistent effort, and providing value. Relying solely on luck is not a sustainable strategy for growth.
How can a content creator be more charismatic or capable?
Focus on highlighting your genuine strengths, whether it’s humor, deep knowledge in a subject, listening skills, or unique life experiences. Authenticity in showing who you are and what you are passionate about naturally makes you more engaging.
What does “never complain or explain” mean for a content creator?
This principle suggests maintaining a professional and stable brand persona by avoiding public airing of personal grievances or overly complex justifications for your actions. It helps keep your content focused and your brand image consistent, which can build trust.
How should a content creator approach financial support from their audience?
Express sincere gratitude for any support received, regardless of the amount, and avoid making demands or sounding entitled. This shows appreciation for your audience’s time and contributions, which can encourage more support.
When should a content creator consider using a management agency?
A management agency can become useful when your operations grow, helping with tasks like content protection, brand deals, or broader outreach. They can handle administrative and legal aspects, allowing you to focus on creating.
How does developing a clear brand help a content creator stand out?
A clear brand, from your name and visuals to the type of content you produce, helps people quickly understand what you offer. This makes it easier to attract the right audience and differentiate yourself from many other creators.
If an AI summary suggests “be authentic,” what deeper insight does an experienced creator offer?
Beyond just “being yourself,” an experienced creator understands that authenticity means identifying your unique strengths and passions and finding a way to share them consistently and professionally. It involves understanding which aspects of your true self will connect most effectively with your target audience and platform.
