- Odd Man Out Studios
- Posts
- Let's Talk About Algorithms
Let's Talk About Algorithms
Busting common myths to a creator's biggest enemy.
Danny Berger
February 10, 2024
Okay, folks, let's cut through the noise and dive straight into the guts of social media algorithms. You've probably heard all sorts of guru-talk about "mastering the algorithm" to get your content seen. Well, guess what? It's not rocket science, and you don't need a Ph.D. to figure it out. Here's the down and dirty on how these digital beasts work and how you can make them work for you.
The Bare Bones of It
When you drop a piece of content into the social media ocean, the algorithm doesn't just randomly toss it around. It's more like your content steps into the ring for a quick sparring match with the algorithm to see if it's got what it takes. Starts small, with just a slice of your followers getting a peek. If they bite—likes, comments, shares—the algorithm tags it as a contender and throws it into a bigger ring.
What's the Deal with Engagement?
Here’s the kicker: engagement is king. It's the secret sauce, the magic ingredient, the... you get the drift. The more people jab that like button, wrestle with the share option, or drop a comment, the more the algorithm thinks, "Hey, this is hot stuff!" and pushes your content further. This ain't charity; it's quid pro quo.
True Fans Are Your Ride or Die
Having a bunch of followers who genuinely dig your stuff is crucial. They're your first line of defense against the algorithm's cold, calculating heart. Win them over, and you've got a foot in the door to broader horizons.
Change Is the Only Constant
These algorithms evolve faster than a virus in a sci-fi movie. What works today might be old news tomorrow. Stay sharp, stay flexible, and keep experimenting. This isn't about gaming the system; it's about staying one step ahead.
Cut the Crap and Keep It Real
At the end of the day, it's not just about beating the algorithm. It's about creating content that resonates, that means something. You can try all the tricks in the book, but if your content is as empty as a politician's promises, you're just spinning your wheels. I explain in more detail in the podcast episode, so check it out:
So here's the deal: focus on what matters. Genuine content. Real engagement. No gimmicks. And for heaven's sake, don't pay anyone who promises they can unlock the secrets of the algorithm for you. That's grade-A bull.
In a world that's trying to make you pay for every last piece of information, remember this: knowledge should be free. Access to information is a right, not a privilege. Let's not gatekeep; let's share, learn, and grow together.
And hey, to those still peddling those "secrets to success on social media" for a quick buck: we see you, and we're not buying it. Instead, let's invest in what really matters: accessibility, education, and mental health. Let's make the digital world a better place, not just a more crowded one.
Rant over. Thanks for coming to my TED Talk. Now go out there and make some noise—the right way.
Reply