How to Build a Community as a Creator in 2022 ??

A strong community is the holy grail of any creator.

Let's dive straight into this -

First, what exactly is a community in this context?

• For a creator, a community is a place where the creator can build a close relationship with their fans.?
• For a fan, a community is a place where they can feel accepted, as everyone has a common interest - the creator.

The biggest brands around the world have their own communities - Apple’s fanboys, Justin Bieber’s Beliebers or Arsenal’s, uh, well, I don’t think Arsenal has any fans lol (no offence Arsenal fans xD)

If you’re a global brand like these, community comes fairly easy.

But if you’re a smaller creator, building a community takes time, effort, and most importantly, a plan.

Here’s a quick guide on how to build & grow a community if you’re a creator -

1. Identify your niche
2. Select the right platform
3. Develop a content strategy
4. Make them feel special
5. Be consistent

1. Identify your niche -?

As a creator, it is essential to identify what your fans truly want from you.

You may think you’re good at something, but your fans might follow you for a completely different reason.

Identify why your fans are your fans, what makes you special, and double down on that as your niche.

2. Select the right platform -?

Communication is key when it comes to communities. It’s your responsibility to choose a platform that your fans feel comfortable interacting on.?

• If you’re a creator in the gaming space, Discord is your best bet.
• If you’re a creator in finance or stocks, Telegram is a good option.
• If you’re a skill-based creator, Slack is a great choice.
• If memes are important to your content, Reddit is the place to be.

It’s up to you. Choose what your fans will feel most comfortable in, and what makes sense to your niche.

3. Develop a content strategy

Creating a community is just the beginning (and the easiest step). Interacting and engaging with your community is where the real challenge kicks in.

Don’t wing it. You can’t build a community by posting in the community whenever you feel like it.?

You need a content strategy to engage your community.

On a weekly basis, plan what you want to share with your fans. It could be?

— Simple questions about things going on in the world

— Sharing exclusive content (ex. )

— Asking for feedback about the content you’re putting out.

Make your fans a part of your process. A little more on this in point #4

4. Make them feel special

Fans stick around when they feel accepted. Why else would they spend their time and energy on you?

Take advantage of their presence by building a relationship with them that only they can relate to - insider lingos, memes, references and jokes that only they would get.?

Giveaways, competitions and fan recognitions are also great ways to strengthen the bond in your community.

5. Be consistent

While building a community, remember that your ultimate goal is to make your content a part of your audience’s routine.

A great example is Pewdiepie. Back in the day, he used to upload videos on a daily basis. So for millions across the world, it became a habit to watch his videos when they woke up, while they’re taking a ??, having lunch or before going to sleep.?

You can only achieve this with consistency.

Ending note:

The more transparent you are, the stronger the community will be.

& the stronger your community, the less reliant you have to be on platforms and brands for your content career.

Time to build your community!