“Your network is the people who want to help you and you want to help them.” — Reid Hoffman
It’s tempting to “go live” because that’s what Facebook’s algorithm likes.
It’s tempting to spew outrage because that’s what Twitter likes.
It’s tempting to do a photo shoot because that’s what Instagram likes.
It’s tempting to write a post like the ones Medium’s curators like.
But it’s better to just do what you like.
Now, on to this week’s ideas…
* * *
Want to build momentum in 15 minutes a week? Join my Creator Accelerator.
* * *
1. The 7 Videos I Most Often Tell Creators To Watch
“The following videos are the ones I most often recommend to creators who are struggling to bring their creations into the world, get them seen, and build a career around them.”
This is such a simple article, but I had more fun putting it together than I’ve had in a while.
That’s because it gave me an excuse to re-watch the seven videos I most often tell creators to watch and they’re as fantastic as they are inspiring.
The include tips on how to start a movement, build a creative career, and keep going when things get tough. I also tell you what the single most valuable minute of each video is, in case you’re pressed for time.
Related: Watching this video every morning could change your life.
2. 13 Proven Ways To Grow Your Email List
“Putting an intriguing headline in my LinkedIn bio: ‘I write the only emails anyone opens anymore.’ People sign up to see if it’s true. (It is.)”
I love when people share the exact tactics they use to accomplish things and this certainly fits that description.
Laura Belgray breaks down 13 proven ways she’s grown her email list including how she made her website an opt-in honey trap, how she uses Instagram captions to drive signups, and the signup button she includes in her emails.
Related: My course on how to grow your newsletter.
3. 100 Tips About How To Create A Sustainable Business
“People don’t pay you because they like you. They pay you because you generate some kind of economic impact or upside elsewhere in a system that matters to them. If you learn how that system works, you can figure out how to make more money.”
It’s weird to say something featuring 100 pieces of advice is a quick read, but this one actually is.
Alex Hillman recently posted a tweet thread with 100 tips about how to create a sustainable business including advice about how to identify opportunities, make decisions, and attract the right customers.
Related: Want to make money from your expertise? Start here.
4. Instead Of A Big Audience, Go After A Small Community
“Getting a post read by ‘everyone’ is harder than ever but reaching hundreds or low thousands of audience has never been easier.”
This is about blogging, but it’s relevant to every type of creative work.
Tom Critchlow introduces the concept of “small b blogging” and suggests instead of a big audience, you go after a small community because the value of sharing your ideas with the world can be unlocked without reaching millions of people.
Related: How to overcome your resistance to committing to a single niche.
5. How To Bring Your Brand To Life
“Consumers buy products to fulfill a need or solve problems, but they buy from brands whose values, beliefs and personality align with their own.”
Your brand is so much more than your logo and Instagram filter.
Felicia C. Sullivan explains how to bring your brand to life including specific tips about how to express your brand in products, content, and offline experiences.
Related: Stop working on your personal brand — you’re wasting your time.
* * *
Want to see what else I found interesting this week? Here it is.
First time here and like what you see? Subscribe here.
* * *