Can I Start a Patreon Account Without Internet Fame?

For many creators, the journey to establishing a platform often hinges on achieving a certain level of internet fame, or at least the recognition of a substantial follower base. However, is internet fame a requisite to launching a Patreon account? Can you successfully establish and grow your subscriber base on this platform without being a internet sensation?

Understanding Patreon's Structure

Patreon is a crowdfunding and subscription platform that enables creators to receive financial support from their fans, called patrons. Unlike traditional crowdfunding platforms, Patreon is more focused on supporting ongoing content creation and maintaining a direct connection between creators and their audience. However, securing subscribers, especially in the early stages, can be challenging if you do not already have a significant following. This article explores if internet fame is essential for starting a Patreon account and suggests strategies for creators without a large online presence to succeed.

The Role of Internet Fame in Building a Patreon Community

The desire to create content, regardless of whether it reaches the level of internet fame, is inherent in many people. You may have passionate fans or a dedicated community, but the prospects for growth and financial stability can be bolstered by a significant social media presence.

Internet fame, or as many creators refer to it, a sizable following, can provide several advantages in the initial stages of setting up a Patreon account:

Higher visibility: Your content is more likely to be discovered due to a larger audience on social media platforms. Better traction: An established online presence can quickly attract initial patrons, providing a platform to scale. Stronger community engagement: A pre-existing fan base can lead to more active and engaged Patreon subscribers.

However, internet fame is not a prerequisite. If you are someone who has spent their entire life in the shadows, you might still be able to launch a Patreon account and build a successful following on it.

Marketing Strategies for New Patreon Creators

Marketing is a critical aspect of building a Patreon community, regardless of your internet fame status. Here are some strategies to help you attract and retain patrons:

1. Leverage Social Media

Utilize social media platforms to promote your content and build a community. Post on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and engage with your audience. Share teasers of your upcoming content, interactive posts, and behind-the-scenes glimpses to keep your audience interested and informed.

2. Create Engaging Content

The quality and engagement value of your content play a significant role in attracting and retaining patrons. Ensure your content is of high quality, well-produced, and adds value to your audience's lives. Whether it's a video series, written articles, podcasts, or live streams, make sure it resonates with your target audience.

3. Offer Exclusive Content

Provide exclusive content to your patrons. This could range from early access to new content, ad-free episodes, personalized messages, or behind-the-scenes content. Exclusive perks help create a sense of community and encourage patrons to subscribe and stay loyal.

4. Engage with Your Patrons

Build a relationship with your patrons by regularly engaging with them. Respond to comments, answer questions, and make them feel appreciated. A strong, community-focused approach can foster long-term patronage and word-of-mouth marketing.

5. Monitor and Adapt

Keep monitoring the performance of your Patreon account and adapt your strategies as necessary. Pay attention to what works and what doesn't, and tweak your approach accordingly. Continuous optimization of your content and marketing strategies will help you grow your Patreon community over time.

Expected Growth: A Realistic Perspective

Setting realistic expectations is crucial, especially if you are starting with a small or no existing fan base. Initial growth may be slow, and building a Patreon community takes time. Patience is key, and it's important to focus on consistent content creation and community building rather than instant success metrics.

When launching your Patreon account, consider your existing fan base and how you can best leverage it. Even if you don't have a significant following, you can still build a thriving community with persistence and dedication. Here are a few steps to help you get started:

Identify your niche and target audience. Understand their needs and create content that addresses them. Start small and build your following gradually. Consistency is more important than having a large number of followers initially. Use cross-promotion by sharing your content across different platforms to reach a wider audience. Engage with your followers through comments, social media, and community forums. Adapt and iterate based on feedback and analytics to refine your content and strategies.

Ultimately, while internet fame can provide an initial boost, it is not the only path to success on Patreon. With the right marketing strategies, content, and community engagement, you can build a thriving Patreon following, regardless of your online fame status.

Conclusion

Does internet fame dictate your success on Patreon? Not necessarily. While a larger audience can provide an initial leg up, it is the quality of your content, your marketing efforts, and your community engagement that truly make the difference. Embrace your unique value as a creator, fanbase or not, and take the steps to build a successful Patreon community powered by passion and dedication.