The Substack Effect: The Impending Death of the Short-Form Algorithm
Sep 30, 2024
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Explore the transformative impact of Substack, highlighting its rise as a platform for creators. Discover how the shift from addictive short-form algorithms to authentic connections is changing content creation. Dive into the power of long-form media and the importance of innovation to combat audience fatigue. Learn strategies for engaging followers through valuable content, emphasizing community building and meaningful interactions over algorithm-driven recommendations.
The rise of Substack signifies a shift towards long-form content as creators seek deeper audience connections beyond algorithm-driven engagement.
Creators are increasingly frustrated with repetitive viral trends, prompting a demand for unique and substantial perspectives in their content.
Deep dives
The Impact of Algorithms on Creators and Content
The advent of TikTok has revolutionized content consumption by prioritizing algorithm-driven feeds, such as the For You page, which diminishes the significance of traditional follower counts. This shift has resulted in a dynamic where a creator's visibility is largely contingent upon their latest videos, leading to fluctuating engagement rates and intensifying creator burnout. As platforms like Instagram also chase algorithmic models, users experience an overwhelming quantity of low-substance short-form content, reminiscent of fast food, while losing the relational aspect once fostered through follower interactions. Ultimately, this environment cultivates fatigue among both creators and consumers, as creativity becomes suppressed by the demands of trending topics and repetitive content cycles.
The Need for Substance in Content Creation
The rise of fixation loops, where creators recycle popular content and trends, has resulted in a stale landscape that neglects originality and depth. Viewers are increasingly dissatisfied with the repetitive nature of viral topics, signaling a demand for unique perspectives and richer experiences from creators. Platforms that enable deeper connections and longer-form content, such as podcasts or Substack, offer an avenue for creators to cultivate meaningful relationships with their audience, counteracting the monotony of algorithm-driven formats. Creators who engage authentically and provide substantial insights stand to build loyal followings, distinguishing themselves in a saturated market.
The Evolution of Platforms and Future Opportunities
Substack emerges as a promising alternative for creators disillusioned by the ephemeral nature of algorithms, providing a space for thoughtful, long-form engagement. As more creators venture into writing and deeper storytelling, Substack enables them to connect with dedicated followers without the interference of a punitive algorithm. The dual structure of Substack—offering both quick updates and extensive content—addresses the current content landscape's need for substance while facilitating monetization for creators. This shift suggests that a new generation of creators, unencumbered by short-form pressures, may thrive by prioritizing creativity and direct audience connection in the evolving digital ecosystem.
Sorry the audio is a little odd on this one! Going to change my mic settings for next time ❤️
In today’s episode of “Ahead of the Curve with Coco Mocoe”. we are talking about the inevitable rise of Substack and the potential death of the short-form algorithm. As a creator who began Substack three months ago and has made $10,000, as of today, I am going to be breaking down my thoughts on the rise of Substack and what it says about shifting needs from users and what they want from the next generation of creators who will break big.
At the end of the episode, I will dive into my specific advice for how I got followers over to my Substack.
Find the extended versions of the podcast here: cocomocoe.substack.com/podcast
“Ahead of the Curve with Coco Mocoe” is a marketing podcast that covers internet and pop culture but from a branding angle. Coco Mocoe is a trend forecaster and marketing expert who loves diving deep into why things go viral on the internet and how you can apply that to your own brand or creator journey.
