The secrets behind building a social media platform

The number of content creators in our world today are growing by the minute. With the number consistently growing, each one has to narrow down their content to who they appeal to the most, by picking a niche. These could be fashion, travel, food, etc. But they need to categorise into each topic. For e.g. Sammy Robinson is a content creator for fashion and lifestyle, however the reason for her consistent followers in her own fashion brand 'One Mile'. The family 'Sailing La Vagabonde' are content creators for travel, however their niche is sailing. For my Digital Artefact I have to do research into the secrets behind building myself a platform to truly understand it. From here I can analyse how I can categorise myself. Here are some of my findings:

Contextualizing:

Every Instagram page has a unique story to tell. Start by understanding your own narrative, your passions, and what sets you apart. It's essential to contextualize your content within your interests and expertise. Authenticity and passion are key; your audience will resonate with genuine enthusiasm.

Mapping:

Think of your Instagram page as a visual map. Strategically plan your content to ensure a smooth and visually appealing journey for your followers. Arrange your posts in a cohesive manner, maintaining a consistent aesthetic, color palette, or theme. A well-structured grid will entice users to stay and explore further.

Narrowing:

Though the digital world is vast, it's vital to narrow down your focus. Choose a niche or a theme that aligns with your passion. Whether it's travel, food, fashion, or art, narrowing down allows you to target a specific audience with similar interests, fostering genuine engagement and a sense of community.

Exploring:

Don't shy away from venturing into uncharted territories. Explore new ideas, experiment with different types of content, and diversify your posts. Keep an eye on emerging trends and be open to trying them out. Instagram is a dynamic platform, and adaptability is key to staying relevant and exciting to your followers.

Adopting Trends:

Trends come and go in the blink of an eye, so it's essential to stay updated and adapt to the latest crazes. Incorporate trending hashtags, challenges, or features into your content strategy. By riding the wave of popular trends, you can increase your visibility and attract a broader audience.

Avoiding Trends:

On the flip side, not all trends may align with your brand or message. Be cautious and selective about the trends you embrace. Always prioritize authenticity and alignment with your page's purpose. It's better to skip a trend than to compromise your unique identity.

In the realm of Instagram, the journey is as important as the destination. Craft your path with passion, purpose, and a sprinkle of creativity. Remember, each post is a reflection of you and the stories you want to share. Stay true to your essence, and success will follow.

References:

Brent Barnhart. (2013). How to get more followers on Instagram: 15 tips to grow your real audience. [Online]. SproutSocial. Last Updated: 13/09. Available at: https://sproutsocial.com/insights/how-to-get-followers-on-instagram/ [Accessed 04 October 2023].

Brooke McCord. (2018). The visual alchemist re-contextualising everyday objects on Instagram. [Online]. DAZED. Last Updated: 26/03. Available at: https://www.dazeddigital.com/fashion/article/39495/1/the-visual-alchemist-re-contextualising-everyda [Accessed 04 October 2023].

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See you on the flip side,

Charli