Creating Content for Emerging Platforms

In the fast-evolving digital landscape, staying ahead of the curve is essential for content creators and marketers. Emerging platforms offer new opportunities to engage with audiences in innovative ways. However, creating content for these platforms requires understanding their unique features, audience behaviors, and best practices. Here’s a guide to help you create effective content for emerging platforms.

Why Focus on Emerging Platforms?

1. Early Adopter Advantage: Being an early adopter on new platforms can give you a competitive edge. You can establish your presence and build a loyal audience before the platform becomes saturated.
2. Fresh Audience: Emerging platforms attract a diverse and often younger audience, providing a chance to reach new demographics.
3. Innovative Engagement: These platforms offer unique features and formats that allow for creative and engaging content.

Identifying Emerging Platforms

To create content for emerging platforms, you first need to identify them. Some of the current emerging platforms include:

• TikTok: Known for short, engaging videos.
• Clubhouse: An audio-based social networking app.
• Twitch: Primarily used for live streaming, especially gaming.
• Vero: A social network focused on a more authentic user experience.
• Byte: A short-form video platform from the creators of Vine.

Strategies for Creating Content on Emerging Platforms

1. Understand the Platform’s Culture

Each platform has its own culture, norms, and user expectations. Spend time exploring the platform to understand what type of content resonates with users.

Example: TikTok thrives on creativity, trends, and challenges. Understanding these elements will help you create content that fits the platform’s vibe.

2. Leverage Unique Features

Use the unique features of the platform to your advantage. This could be live streaming on Twitch, audio rooms on Clubhouse, or short videos on TikTok.

Example: On Clubhouse, participate in or host rooms related to your industry to establish thought leadership and engage in meaningful conversations.

3. Engage with the Community

Active engagement is crucial on emerging platforms. Respond to comments, participate in trends, and interact with other users to build a community around your content.

Example: On TikTok, use popular hashtags and participate in trending challenges to increase your visibility and engagement.

4. Focus on Authenticity

Authenticity is highly valued on many emerging platforms. Users prefer genuine, relatable content over highly polished and scripted material.

Example: Share behind-the-scenes content, personal stories, and user-generated content to create a more authentic connection with your audience.

5. Experiment and Iterate

Emerging platforms offer a playground for experimentation. Test different content types and strategies to see what works best. Use analytics to measure performance and refine your approach.

Example: On Twitch, try different streaming schedules and formats (e.g., Q&A sessions, live tutorials) to find what resonates with your audience.

6. Collaborate with Influencers

Influencers can help you gain traction on new platforms. Partner with influencers who have already established a presence to tap into their audience and boost your visibility.

Example: Collaborate with popular TikTok creators to reach a larger audience and benefit from their credibility.

Content Ideas for Emerging Platforms

1. TikTok

   • Challenges: Participate in or create viral challenges.
   • Tutorials: Share quick, easy-to-follow tutorials related to your niche.
   • Behind-the-Scenes: Show the behind-the-scenes of your business or creative process.

2. Clubhouse

   • Panel Discussions: Host or participate in panel discussions on industry topics.
   • Q&A Sessions: Conduct live Q&A sessions with your audience.
   • Networking Rooms: Create rooms for networking and connecting with like-minded individuals.

3. Twitch

   • Live Demos: Stream live demonstrations of your products or services.
   • Gaming Sessions: If relevant, engage with the gaming community through live gaming sessions.
   • Interactive Streams: Host interactive streams where you respond to viewer comments and questions in real-time.

4. Vero

   • Authentic Posts: Share authentic, unfiltered content that showcases your brand’s personality.
   • Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality visuals to tell compelling stories.
   • Exclusive Content: Offer exclusive content to your Vero followers to build a dedicated community.

5. Byte

   • Short, Creative Videos: Create engaging, short videos that capture attention quickly.
   • Humor and Trends: Leverage humor and current trends to connect with the Byte audience.
   • User Interaction: Encourage user interaction through comments and shares.

Challenges and Solutions

1. Keeping Up with Trends

   • Solution: Regularly monitor the platform for trending topics and formats. Use tools like Google Trends and social listening tools to stay updated.

2. Resource Constraints

   • Solution: Start small and scale up as you see success. Use simple tools and mobile apps for content creation to keep costs low.

3. Measuring Success

   • Solution: Define clear metrics for success based on your goals (e.g., engagement, followers, conversions). Use the platform’s analytics tools to track performance.

Conclusion

Creating content for emerging platforms requires a blend of creativity, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the platform’s unique characteristics. By leveraging the platform’s features, engaging with the community, and staying authentic, you can effectively tap into new audiences and stay ahead of the curve. Embrace the opportunities these platforms offer to expand your reach and enhance your content strategy.