Why creators risk losing their audience - Dom Smales
Dec 3, 2024
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In this engaging discussion, Dom Smales, founder of Gleam Futures and manager of stars like Zoella, offers a candid look at the creator economy's precarious state. He explains the urgent need for creators to pivot from mere influencers to savvy entrepreneurs to keep their audiences engaged. Dom shares vital strategies that have propelled his clients' success and the significance of authentic brand partnerships. He also reflects on the challenges young creators face in managing fame and productivity in an increasingly competitive landscape.
The creator economy faces challenges due to oversaturation, requiring creators to adapt their engagement strategies to maintain audience interest.
Successful creators prioritize authenticity and integrity, fostering genuine connections that allow them to evolve while staying true to their values.
Public accountability is essential for creators to uphold their influence, as responsible communication helps maintain trust in a skeptical audience landscape.
Deep dives
Challenges with Business Banking
The speakers reflect on their experiences starting multiple businesses and the ongoing struggle to find suitable business banking options. They highlight the cycle of trying different banks, often resulting in dissatisfaction due to hidden fees or inadequate services. Eventually, they discover Wise Business, which proves to be a game-changer in managing business finances. Wise offers a streamlined approach to banking, allowing for international transactions without unexpected costs, significantly enhancing their business operations.
Evolution of the Creator Economy
The podcast discusses the evolution of the creator economy, emphasizing the transition from traditional entertainment to digital-first platforms over the last decade. This shift has led to an influx of creators and content but has diluted audience engagement due to the overwhelming number of options available. The speakers argue that the focus of creators has shifted from entertaining to selling, which jeopardizes audience interest. They believe a reevaluation of how creators engage their audiences will be essential for future growth.
Engagement and Influence in Content Creation
The speakers examine the current state of engagement within the influencer space, noting a significant decline in how audiences connect with creators. They observe that while there is a wealth of information and entertainment, the real engagement is dropping, leading to diminished returns for even popular influencers. Case studies of successful creators like Mr. Beast and The Sidemen illustrate the success of those who manage to balance entertainment with effective marketing strategies. The importance of creating high-value content that resonates with audiences is highlighted as vital for sustained influence.
Accountability and Public Clarity
The conversation shifts to the growing expectation for creators to be accountable for their statements and actions. The speakers argue that as public figures, creators should own and clarify their opinions responsibly, especially as they wield significant influence over their audiences. They discuss recent controversies surrounding creators and emphasize the need for meticulous and thoughtful communication. This accountability not only protects the creators' reputations but is also necessary for maintaining audience trust in an increasingly skeptical landscape.
Long-Term Success for Creators
The speakers share insights on what distinguishes successful creators who maintain relevance over the long haul. They attribute sustained success to authenticity, integrity, and a passion for the subjects they cover, which builds lasting relationships with audiences. Individuals like Zoe Sugg and Grace Beverly are cited as examples of creators who have evolved their brand without sacrificing their core values. By focusing on meaningful engagement and genuine content, creators can navigate shifts in trends and ensure their continued success in the industry.
In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Dom Smales, founder of Gleam Futures, to discuss why the creator economy is on the verge of collapse and what creators must do to avoid losing their audiences. With a wealth of experience managing some of the biggest names in the industry, including Zoella, Dom shares his insights on the shifting dynamics of the creator landscape.
We explore why creators are at risk of losing their influence if they don’t adapt, and how they can successfully transition from influencers to entrepreneurs. Dom also reveals the key traits and strategies that helped his most successful talents, like Zoella, rise to the top and sustain their success over time.
Whether you’re a creator or entrepreneur, this episode is packed with actionable advice on how to navigate the challenges of the evolving creator economy and secure long-term success.
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