Nearly every business model in existence relies heavily on the cultivation of personal connections, and the world of adult camming and content creation is no different. Connecting with people is crucial to growing a fan base that is not only loyal but ready to invest in you financially.
Every article and expert on the topic will agree that people are more likely to spend their money in places where they feel the biggest connection to the person on the receiving end of said money. For creators in the digital world, it may seem difficult or even impossible to build and foster real connections from behind screens and geographic anonymity — but this doesn’t have to be the case. Following these four proven tactics will ultimately grow your fan base and positively affect revenue.
Just like a good bartender will know what their regular is drinking before they ask for it, pay attention to what your regulars like about your shows and perform that content exclusively for them, either in a public broadcast or a private, one-on-one setting.
Take It Private
There are two types of private shows: small group shows that you promote in advance and sell tickets for, and one-on-one private shows, which allow you to connect with fans even more intimately. This is a proven method of fostering closeness, because it gives viewers the feeling of exclusive access and something that is just for them. One of the keys to fostering deep connections is to make the person on the other end of the transaction feel special, like they’ve stood out from your crowd of adoring fans and inspired you to go that extra mile just for them. Some ways to make the most of private show promo include:
- Creating VIP exclusivity through your online fan club. This builds on the important element of offering special access and making fans who pay up feel like they’re more than just another viewer in your room. This can enable you to create a top-tier mailing list as well.
- Touting limited access. Consider diamond marketing. The whole industry is based on the idea of rarity, pricing stones at a premium because folks believe that not everyone can get them. It’s the way Michael Jordan sneakers sell and Ticketmaster markets concerts, creating a sense of urgency that will impel people to act. Marketing your private shows as “limited access” or “a one-time-only performance” will push your fans to sign up and be first in line.
- Hyping unique, behind-the-curtain content. With the right kind of messaging, you can wake up viewers’ inner voyeur and ignite their curiosity into a need to know what goes on behind closed doors. Make it clear that you offer certain types of content and performances only to those who attend your private shows, and if folks want more of you, they’re going to have to do what it takes to gain this coveted access.
- Plugging private shows during regular broadcasts. Constantly uttering phrases such as “I only do XYZ in private” is a great way to compel viewers in your room to take that extra step. Teasing the public with promises of unprecedented access to you and essentially offering them a digital girlfriend experience is an effective way to get them to fall for you and keep them coming back for more.
Cam2Cam
This is one of the most surefire ways to connect with your fans and really build genuine connections. Typically, webcam broadcasts are one-way, meaning you’re broadcasting to folks who you can’t see and can only communicate with you via the chat window. Why not take it a step further? Certain platforms offer you the option to activate an exclusive private session with a fan, in which both of you have cameras turned on and can see each other. The ability to connect on a visual level inevitably brings the relationship between viewer and creator to a new level. Do your research and seek out camming platforms that offer this technology, and then advertise this exclusive, heightened access via the methods mentioned above.
Follow Fans Back
Imagine the thrill of being followed on social media by the verified account of one of your true heroes or favorite artists. A simple follow-back is an exhilarating way to help your fans feel like you not only know they exist but care enough about them to want to keep up with their social media. This should be considered a high honor for your fans, so don’t be afraid to base decisions about whom you follow back on the old “What’s in it for you?” For instance, only follow back top tippers, those who give you a ton of love on social media or who have been longtime loyal followers of your content and broadcasts. Another key here is to be loud about the fact that you follow your fans, so that other people interested in you understand that you’re the type of creator who cares about those who care about you. This will encourage them to put in the time and money to get you to notice them and engage with them on a personal level.
Spoil Your Regulars
Any good bartender will tell you that cultivating regular customers is the best way to increase revenue. Regulars who love you tend to tip more, remain loyal to you as a performer and dote on your every move.
Just like a good bartender will know what their regular is drinking before they ask for it, pay attention to what your regulars like about your shows and perform that content exclusively for them, either in a public broadcast or a private, one-on-one setting. Call them out by name and make your personal connection with them very clear to other viewers, so they become envious and step up their game by tipping you better in order to stand out. Humans are naturally competitive, so if we see someone getting more attention than us, often we will jump at the chance to get that same love. Regulars bring that repeat business because they feel loved and seen by you, and ultimately deeply connected to someone whom they find great pleasure in watching. Repurpose the tactics of a good bartender during your broadcasts and you will absolutely notice an impact on your tips.
We all yearn for that special connection with those we care about, craving to be seen and acknowledged by the folks who mean something to us. What this means for online content creators is opportunity. Dial in to this craving for human connection and watch how quickly it can have a positive impact on your revenue stream.
Johnny Diamond is senior account manager at camming platform CAM4. Follow him @JDiamondXXX on Twitter and contact johnny@cam4.com for more information.
