Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Stephen Covic. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Stephen, thanks for joining us today. What’s something you believe that most people in your industry (or in general) disagree with?
In the world of making content, there’s a big idea that many people follow: focus on just one thing. This is often called ‘niching down.’ Everywhere I look, from online classes to advice from top creators, the message is loud and clear: choose one topic and stick to it. They believe that by doing this, you’ll become the go-to person for that topic, attract more followers, and really stand out from the crowd. While I’ve seen this work for a lot of folks, I can’t help but feel there’s more to the story.
I strongly believe that we’re all made up of many parts. We have a bunch of interests, feelings, and experiences that shape us. We change and grow as life goes on. So, sticking to just one topic feels like putting ourselves in a box. It’s like telling a bird it can only fly in one direction. It might be a straightforward path but think of all the amazing places the bird won’t get to see.
Repeating the same topic every day can become really repetitive. When things get too repetitive, it’s easy to lose our spark. And when we’re not excited about what we’re sharing, our followers can sense it.
Now, I’m not saying we should jump from one topic to another without any plan. It’s important to have some main themes or subjects that we’re passionate about. But within those themes, there’s room to explore and mix things up. Take someone who loves health, for example. They can talk about workouts, healthy recipes, and relaxation techniques, and even share personal stories of their health journey. There’s so much to dive into!
To wrap it up, while many swear by the ‘one topic’ approach, I feel there’s a lot of value in mixing things up. Our lives are filled with different moments, experiences, and lessons. Why shouldn’t our content reflect that richness? In a world where so much can feel predictable, a little variety can be just the thing to keep things fresh and engaging.
Stephen, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
For those unfamiliar with Stephen’s work, he is a seasoned content creator and entrepreneur hailing from Canada. His journey in the digital media realm began over 8 years ago, at a time when the profession of content creation was still in its infancy. Despite the challenges of the early days, Stephen’s passion and dedication opened doors to a myriad of opportunities in the digital space.
Stephen’s initial foray was into entertainment journalism, where he collaborated with some of Canada’s top networks. However, sensing the growing shift towards digital platforms, he astutely pivoted. This move allowed him to delve deep into the world of YouTubers and creators, gaining invaluable insights into the business side of content creation.
Stephen’s relocation to Vancouver marked a significant chapter in his career. With a blend of determination and networking prowess, he pitched a unique YouTube show concept to a prominent real estate brokerage office. Wearing multiple hats, Stephen was at the helm of producing, directing, hosting, and strategizing, leading the channel to a commendable milestone of 25,000 subscribers. Given his innate passion for real estate and home design, this venture was a perfect alignment of his interests.
In his capacity as a full-time content creator, Stephen has forged partnerships with some of Canada’s most iconic brands. His expertise lies in producing resonant content, understanding the digital landscape, and strategizing for growth. What truly sets Stephen apart is his ability to adapt, his genuine passion for the craft, and his commitment to understanding the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Stephen’s work is a reflection of his journey, passions, and experiences. He stands as a testament to perseverance, innovation, and genuine passion in the digital content realm.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
Building an audience on social media is both an art and a science. It’s a journey that requires patience, dedication, and a keen understanding of the ever-evolving digital landscape. Over the years, several key strategies have emerged as instrumental in cultivating a robust online following:
1. **Identify Your Interests**: This doesn’t mean boxing yourself into one topic, but rather finding some general themes or things that resonates with you and a potential audience. Your POV is important!
2. **Consistent Content**: Regular posting not only keeps your audience engaged but also signals to platforms like Instagram, TikTok or YouTube that your account is active, which can boost your visibility.
3. **Engage with Your Audience**: Social media is a two-way street. Responding to comments, conducting polls, or hosting Q&A sessions can foster a sense of community and make followers feel valued.
4. **Adapt and Evolve**: The digital world is in constant flux. What works today might not work tomorrow. Stay updated with the latest trends, algorithms, and platform features. Don’t be afraid to pivot your strategy when needed.
5. **Collaborate**: Partnering with others in your field or related fields can introduce your content to a broader audience. Collaborations can be in the form of guest posts, joint live sessions, or even simple shoutouts.
6. **Invest in Learning**: Whether it’s understanding SEO for YouTube or the best times to post on Instagram, investing time in learning can significantly impact your growth.
7. **Authenticity is Key**: In a world filled with curated content, authenticity stands out. Share your highs and lows, successes and failures. People connect with real stories and real emotions.
For those just starting out, remember that every influencer or content creator you admire began with zero followers. It’s a journey filled with learning curves, but with passion and persistence, building a meaningful social media presence is entirely achievable. Stay true to yourself, be patient, and enjoy the process.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
One of the most challenging aspects for non-creatives to grasp about the journey of a creative is the emotional investment that goes into each piece of work. Every creation, whether it’s a piece of writing, a video, a design, or any other form of content, is a reflection of the creator’s thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It’s not just a task; it’s a piece of one’s soul.
Another misconception is the idea of ‘inspiration on demand.’ Creativity isn’t a faucet that can be turned on and off at will. There are days of immense inspiration, where ideas flow freely, and then there are periods of creative droughts, where even the simplest task feels monumental.
Furthermore, the value of ‘invisible work’ is often overlooked. For every finished piece that sees the light of day, there are countless hours of brainstorming, drafting, revising, and sometimes even discarding and starting over. This behind-the-scenes effort is rarely seen but is a crucial part of the creative process.
Lastly, the courage it takes to put one’s work out into the world cannot be understated. Every time a creative shares their work, they’re opening themselves up to feedback, critique, and sometimes even harsh criticism. It’s a vulnerable position, and the fear of judgment or rejection is something every creative grapples with.
For those who interact with creatives, whether in a personal or professional capacity, understanding and acknowledging these nuances can make a world of difference. A little empathy, patience, and encouragement can go a long way in supporting the creative journey.
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