How To Build Your Audience

Let's talk about building an audience. Ready? I know, I know. It sounds scary.

First, Forget Everything You Think You Know

Seriously. All those "expert" tips? Toss 'em out the window. Especially that one about engaging content. (More on that later).

My unpopular opinion: most of that stuff is fluff. We need to be real.

Step 1: Be Shamelessly You (But a Polished You)

Don't try to be someone else. Unless "someone else" is a slightly wittier, better-dressed version of you. Then, by all means, aspire to that.

The point is, authenticity resonates. Even if your authentic self enjoys competitive thumb-wrestling. Own it!

Just maybe don't lead with the thumb-wrestling. Unless you’re targeting thumb-wrestling enthusiasts.

Step 2: Embrace the Absurd (Within Reason)

Let’s face it, the internet is overflowing with bland content. Dare to be different. Dare to be... a little weird.

I’m not suggesting you start yodeling interpretive dance routines. Unless you're good at it!

But inject some personality! A little humor goes a long way.

Step 3: The Myth of "Engaging Content"

Here’s where I get controversial. Everyone says create engaging content. But what does that even MEAN?

Frankly, I think it's code for "try really hard to be interesting." And forced interestingness is… uninteresting.

Instead, create content YOU find interesting. The right audience will find it too.

Step 4: Find Your Tribe (They’re Hiding!)

Don't try to appeal to everyone. That's a recipe for exhaustion and blandness.

Focus on finding your niche. Your people. The ones who "get" you. Think Lord of the Rings fans or sourdough bread bakers.

They’re out there. Lurking in the digital shadows. Waiting for someone just like you.

Step 5: Patience, Young Padawan

Building an audience takes time. It's not an overnight thing. (Unless you go viral. But don’t count on it.)

Think of it as planting a garden. You water it, you weed it, you occasionally talk to the flowers.

Eventually, beautiful things will grow. Or at least some slightly stunted tomatoes.

Step 6: Be a Good Human (Mostly)

This might seem obvious, but it needs to be said. Don't be a jerk. Online or offline.

Treat your audience with respect. Respond to comments (even the weird ones). Be helpful (when you can).

Unless they're trolls. Then unleash your inner witty savage. (Just kidding... mostly.)

Step 7: Don't Be Afraid to Experiment

Try different things! Post on different platforms! See what resonates. If something fails, shrug it off.

The internet is forgiving (sometimes). Just don't post anything you wouldn't want your grandma to see. Unless your grandma is cool.

Then, by all means, show her everything. Especially if it involves competitive thumb-wrestling.

The Secret Ingredient (Spoiler Alert: It’s Consistency)

All this boils down to one thing: consistency. Show up. Keep creating. Keep engaging (the real kind).

Even when you feel like nobody's watching. Because eventually, they will be.

And when they do, they'll find the authentic, slightly weird, consistently you.

Bonus Tip: Ignore Me!

This whole article? Take it with a grain of salt. What works for me might not work for you.

The best way to build your audience is to figure out what works for you. So experiment! Play! And most importantly, have fun!

Now go forth and conquer the internet! (Or at least make a few new friends.)

Good luck, and may the odds be ever in your favor. (Yes, I went there.)

And remember, never stop learning... unless you become an expert. Then it's okay to coast a little.