In a previous column, I talked about how to boost your brand using social media. In response, several messages came in from new cam models wanting to build a social media presence from scratch, having no idea where to begin.
The process can seem daunting, but once you’ve taken the time to do it right, you’ll find yourself with an invaluable marketing tool that helps build your brand, funnel traffic to your room and start your empire.
Here is a quick and dirty beginner’s guide you can use to get your social media accounts off the ground.
Step 1: Lock Down Your Personal Social Media Accounts
You may be really eager to get started, but before you do anything you must make sure your real name and personal social media accounts are protected.
Set all your personal accounts to “private” and remove your real last name as an extra line of security in case someone does happen upon your personal profiles.
If you use check-in apps like Swarm, be sure to lock those down too as you don’t want to provide the general public with information about where you are and where you like to hang out.
Step 2: Determine Which Platforms Are Best For You
If you’re looking to promote cam shows specifically, Twitter is your best bet, because you can post direct links to your room.
Use it to announce when you’re online, when you’re taking a break and when you’ll be back, so fans will be right there waiting when you return.
If you’re looking to build your brand, Instagram is an amazing tool despite the really strict guidelines. Use this platform to post alluring (but PG) photos, let fans in on the aspects of your day-to-day life you’re willing to show and monetize your posts as your account grows and you gain the interest of brands who want to work with you.
It takes time to reach that point, but once you do it’s a great stream of extra income to supplement your lifestyle when things are slow on cam.
Step 3: Take a Few Promo Pics Exclusively for Your Public Profiles
Your success on social media relies heavily on how visually appealing your images are, so take some great photos to show off your individuality. Be sure not to use any pics that are also posted to your private accounts, however.
You may have a few shots you love and really want to share with your fans, but if one decides to use one of them for a Google Image Search, boom … the trail leads right back to your private profiles and your real identity.
Be sure to check the background of each photo as well to ensure you’re not giving away your location. Recently, one of our models had a safety issue because she posted a photo of herself at a high school football game with the scoreboard in the background and the name of her son’s school on full display.
Luckily nothing serious happened, but it’s still a great reminder to practice extreme care when you’re a public figure on social media.
Step 4: Build Your Bio
Photos are important, but your bio is what tells people who you are and why they should follow you. Maybe you’re into kink, cosplay or gaming. Maybe you’re a MILF who loves to show off her perfectly pedicured feet. Whatever it is that makes you special, put it right out there so you can pique the interest of new followers at first glance.
Once that’s done, provide links in your bio so fans can find you elsewhere. One of the best things about Twitter is you can link directly to your room right from your profile.
If you’re on Instagram where the rules are a little stricter, try an app like Slink that allows you to create a page that lists all your links and use that URL instead. That way, fans can find your cam room, other social media profiles, custom clips and more with one click.
Step 5: Put the Word Out
The first step to building a following is getting the word out that you are now on social media. Reach out to your friends in the industry and send them your new handle names so they can follow you.
Some of your really good friends may even give you a shout out on their feed, which is a great way to start building up your follower count early on. Also, be sure to hit up your camming platform so they can follow you and give a shout out as well.
Once your accounts are up and running, check out our story on Boosting Your Brand With Social Media in the March 2019 issue of XBIZ World for an in-depth look at how to avoid getting banned, how to engage your new followers with quality content and more!
Jackie Backman is the content manager for Cams.com. She has been working in the industry for over 12 years and specializes in copywriting and social media management. If you would like to contact Jackie, she can be reached at CamsJBackman@gmail.com.
