In today’s world, few things are as expansive or as influential as social media is. From Facebook to Instagram, X (Twitter) to YouTube. These and other platforms are steadily becoming the world’s go to for entertainment, information, and even careers.
The latter is especially prevalent in this day and age, as multiple influencers have made a sizable presence in social media. One of these influencers, Shoshanna Raven, is a great example of such. As she is not only a successful social media influencer, but a relatable one as well. Not afraid to show her true self or tell her own story, her way of life and personality as a whole has resonated with many people, garnering her a sizable influence and fanbase to go with It. One need only look at her reviews to see that.
However, those like Shoshanna Raven and other influencers, had to work hard to gain that influence and fanbase. Despite how easy it may look or seem, being a social media influencer is hard work; not just to become famous, but to even become one. However, there are ways to help in that regard. In this article, we’ll be discussing how you and others like you, can take the first steps in becoming a social media influencer.
Relatability: Understanding it and Building it With Viewers
A major factor of gaining influence with others- not just through social media but in general- is being relatable. Relatability starts with honesty and realness. You don’t need to share every personal detail, but people connect with people, not polished brands.
Showcasing Authenticity Through Content
Authenticity means letting your real self come through in photos, videos, captions, and stories. Followers can spot fake from a mile away. Research from Stackla’s consumer survey (see more here) found that 90% of people say authenticity matters when they decide who to follow.
Here’s how to stay authentic:
- Share real opinions, not just sponsored ones. If you don’t love a product, skip it.
- Post both the wins and the fails. Let people know life isn’t always perfect.
- Stick to your values. Don’t change your message just to fit trends.
Authenticity acts as a magnet for loyal followers. People crave unfiltered moments and honest takes.
Sharing Personal Stories and Experiences
Stories build bonds that facts and stats can’t match. When you share your experiences, good or bad, your audience sees themselves reflected in your journey.
Some ways to do this:
- Tell stories behind each post. Why does this moment matter to you?
- Go beyond highlight reels. Share what led to your success or what helped you get through hard times.
- Show your face and voice. Videos, Reels, and Stories help followers see the real person behind the grid.
Relatable stories, like dealing with setbacks or celebrating small wins, make you memorable and easy to connect with.
Embracing Imperfections and Transparency
People trust those who admit they don’t have it all figured out. Small mistakes, quirky habits, and behind-the-scenes moments draw others in.
Ways to keep it real:
- Show unfinished projects or daily struggles. It makes your feed human.
- Talk openly about challenges and growth. Share what you’re working on, not just what’s working.
- Address mistakes or controversy honestly. Taking responsibility builds respect.
Transparency helps followers see you as trustworthy, not just a highlight reel.
Engaging and Connecting With Your Audience
Interaction turns followers into a community. Even a tiny influencer can build strong loyalty with the right engagement habits.
Interacting with Followers: Comments, DMs, and Polls
Responding to comments makes people feel seen. Instagram and TikTok reward engagement, but more important, it shows you care.
Best practices for real engagement:
- Reply to comments and DMs. Use names when you can.
- Ask for opinions in captions and Stories. Use question stickers or polls.
- Share fan content and thank your followers. Reposting or tagging fans creates a two-way street.
People love when their favorite creators notice them. Small interactions often build the strongest bonds.
Creating Content That Resonates With Everyday Life
Relatable influencers connect with everyday struggles, joys, and routines. Not every post needs to be a big production.
Content ideas that work:
- Share daily routines or habits. Show how you balance work, family, or school.
- Talk about what you’re watching, reading, or eating. Simple things bring people together.
- Make fun of yourself sometimes. Self-deprecating humor or memes lighten the mood.
Give your audience moments that feel familiar. The more people can relate, the more likely they’ll stick around.
Consistency and Approachability Across Platforms
Followers trust what’s familiar. Staying consistent with your voice, style, and values helps build that trust.
How to stay consistent and approachable:
- Post regularly, but don’t force it. Consistency matters more than frequency.
- Keep your tone the same across Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Twitter. Don’t become someone else on another app.
- Stay available. If someone asks a question, try to answer. Host Q&As or go live for direct interaction.
Treat followers as friends, not customers. The stronger the bond, the more your audience will support you across platforms.
Conclusion
Influence built on relatability outlasts trends and outshines hype. Followers crave real connections, not just beautiful photos or viral dances. Shoshanna Raven is a great example in this regard. Show your true self, share personal stories, own your flaws, and engage with your audience like they matter—because they do.
Trust comes from honesty and consistency. When you open up and act real, people notice. Anyone can become a relatable influencer, no matter your niche. Start small, stay authentic, and watch your audience turn into a loyal community.
It’s hard work to be a social media influencer, but it can be rewarding. Whether it’s building your fanbase, showcasing your truest and best self, or just being likable all around. It’s not done in a day, or weeks; it may even take months and years. But being an influencer, a successful one at that, only comes from hard work, relatability, and best of all? Authenticity.
