Unexpected Lessons from Smaller X (Twitter) Creators
After analyzing over 16,000 X profiles, surprising trends emerged. Smaller creators are often implementing more effective strategies than larger accounts, offering valuable insights for everyone. These findings shifted the focus of this analysis, revealing three unexpected lessons applicable to any X user seeking growth.
The Initial Question: Stuck Despite Following Advice
The initial goal was to create a video on rapidly gaining followers on X, building on standard advice like consistent tweeting and profile optimization. However, a comment questioning the effectiveness of this advice even when diligently followed prompted a deeper investigation. The question was, what happens when you implement all the widely given advice and still stall?
Diving into the Data: A New Perspective
The question was taken to Hype Fury HQ, where access to the analytics of thousands of X users allowed for data-driven insights. After extensive searching, three creators with unique approaches were identified. The key discovery was that engagement metrics alone don't tell the whole story.
Engagement Isn't Everything
While large accounts get a lot of likes and reposts, that engagement becomes expected at a certain scale. High engagement doesn't necessarily equate to learning or valuable interaction. This realization shifted the focus to smaller accounts with under 10,000 followers, who often provide more insightful lessons.
Lesson 1: Harness the Power of Spaces
The first lesson highlights the underrated power of X Spaces. This feature allows for real-time communication, fostering friendships, sharpening speaking skills, and even connecting with influential figures.
Spaces: A Criminally Underused Feature
X Spaces is a valuable tool for creators of all sizes. Participation doesn't require a Pro account or even hosting a room to start. Nicholas Verge, a rapidly growing marketing expert, has leveraged Spaces to gain followers by hosting conversations with creators with large audiences.
How to Get Started with Spaces
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Join other Spaces first: Observe the dynamics, react to posts, and show support.
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Ask for the mic: Participate in conversations when you feel ready.
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Create your own Space: Choose a topic, launch it, and be a good host by giving everyone a chance to speak.
By actively engaging in and hosting Spaces, creators can connect with new audiences and build genuine communities.
Lesson 2: Embrace Authenticity and Personality
The second lesson emphasizes the importance of injecting personal authenticity into content. While providing value and actionable advice is crucial, standing out requires showcasing a unique personality.
Jake Youngblood: A Case Study in Authenticity
Jake Youngblood's success stems from his unique brand of "irrational optimism," setting him apart in a crowded content landscape. Authenticity resonates with audiences in a world saturated with similar content.
How to Inject Authenticity into Your Content
- Analyze your Niche: Identify the major players in your industry.
- Define your Unique Attributes: List the traits and characteristics that make you different.
- Infuse Content with Personality: Ask yourself how you can make your content more engaging, fun, and creative.
By embracing individuality and bringing lightness and optimism to the timeline, creators can attract a dedicated following.
Lesson 3: Focus on Your Product, Not Just Your Profile
The final lesson is a wake-up call: social media isn't the business; the product or service is. Some creators achieve significant growth organically by focusing on building a valuable product, even with a seemingly basic X profile.
Lisis Pereira: Product-Driven Growth
Lisis Pereira, an entrepreneur building an AI tool called AudioPen, experienced rapid growth due to the value his product provides. Word-of-mouth marketing and user testimonials drove his success.
Building a Product for Organic Growth
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Create a Digital Product: This could be a course, recording, or tool that solves a specific problem.
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Focus on Value: Ensure the product is high-quality and provides real benefits to users.
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Leverage Platforms: Use platforms like Kajabi or Gumroad to host and sell digital products.
By prioritizing product development, creators can attract organic growth through the value they provide, making their social media growth a byproduct of their business success.
Conclusion: Apply and Adapt
These three lessons from smaller X creators highlight the importance of unconventional strategies. Continuous learning and adaptation are essential for growth on X. While these tactics can be influential, they are useless without copyrighting skills, which is a critical skill to develop.