Securing a custom domain for your Spring store can level up your brand’s game and make your Spring store seem more trustworthy to your fans. And Spring makes it easy! You can either buy a domain directly from Spring or connect one you purchased elsewhere.
But before we get into that, what exactly is a custom domain?
A custom domain is essentially your own unique web address, like “yourbrand.com.” It’s a key piece in distinguishing your digital presence from others.
Unlike the generic URLs that Spring hands out when you start, a custom domain that echoes your brand vibe not only boosts your visibility but also gives off some major professional vibes.
People feel safer and more inclined to shop with brands that look polished and committed. When you connect a custom domain to your Spring store, you’re not just opening up shop—you’re building trust and deepening your connection with your audience. This can really set you apart from the crowd, making your brand the top choice in your niche. So, snagging that perfect domain isn’t just a techy detail—it’s a smart move that can drive your brand forward.
So, with that said, let’s get into how to connect an existing domain to your Spring store and how to purchase one if you don’t already have one.
How to purchase a domain
If you already have a domain, skip to the next step. But if you need to buy one, you’re in luck. Spring allows you to purchase your very own custom domain directly from your Spring account. Read the steps below and then click here to buy one!
Follow these steps to buy a domain:
1. Log Into Spring:
Hop on your Spring account to get started.
2. Navigate to Your Dashboard:
Click on the “Stores” tab in your dashboard, then select “Purchase a Domain.”
3. Find Your Perfect Domain:
Pop your ideal domain name into the search bar. You’ll see a list of available domains right at the top. Each one comes with the price tag for a yearly subscription, making it easy to compare and choose. If the name you like isn’t available, try switching up the ending—instead of .com, how about .net or .co?
4. Fill in Your Info:
Drop in your address and choose if you want your domain to auto-renew each year. Then, you’re ready to hit checkout.
5. Complete Your Purchase:
Once you complete your purchase, we’ll automatically handle the DNS records verification. Your domain goes live instantly—no waiting around!
6. Verify to Activate:
Look out for a verification email and follow the prompts to confirm your contact details.
Once you verify your info, your Spring store URL will automatically change within 24-36 hours!
How to connect a domain
If you’ve purchased a domain somewhere outside of Spring, you can click here to connect it to your Spring store.
Heres how to do it:
1. Edit Your DNS Settings:
Head over to your domain registrar’s control panel. You’ll need to add a couple of DNS records to link up your domain with your Spring store:
A Record: Add this (also known as the root record) to make sure anyone visiting your domain (like thecreator.com without the www) lands on your Spring store.
CNAME Record: This one makes sure that visitors to www.thecreator.com also get directed to your store.
2. Update Settings in Spring:
Once you’ve updated your DNS settings:
Go back to the “Stores” tab in your Spring dashboard.
Find the domain you’re setting up and click the ‘Setup incomplete, click to resume’ button. This checks if your DNS settings are pointing right.
3. Verify Your Setup:
If the initial check doesn’t work, hit the button again. Double-check the DNS records in your registrar’s panel, correct them if needed, and try verifying once more.
Verification might take a few minutes. If it’s still not working, just click the ‘Verify’ button again.
4. Success!
Once your DNS records are confirmed, you’ll see a success message, and you’re all set—your domain is now connected to your Spring store!
Grab a domain to help your brand stand out and grow!
Investing in a custom domain for your Spring store is more than just a tech upgrade; it’s a game changer for your brand’s vibe and trustworthiness. By stepping away from generic URLs, you’re not just making it easier for your fans to find and remember you—you’re showing the world you’re serious about your business.
A unique domain means you’re all in, creating a professional, sleek image that attracts customers and makes them feel secure when they shop. Think of it as your brand’s digital home base, where everything you do comes together under one memorable address.
Plus, hooking up a custom or existing domain with your Spring store only takes a few minutes and is super beneficial. It keeps your marketing tight and drives all your social media followers straight to one spot without any detours. This direct line doesn’t just enhance the shopping experience but also boosts your spot on search engine radars.
Getting set up is simple, quick, and all about letting you focus on your passion while we handle the tech stuff. So, why wait? Grab that custom domain, and let’s take your brand from just buzzing to absolutely booming!Buy or purchase a domain here!
You’ve poured your heart and soul into creating some killer product designs (if you missed this step, read how here!), but now comes the real challenge: getting the word out there and making sales.
Thankfully, using samples of your products in your content is an easy way to do that! In fact, Spring creators who show off their products in their content triple their sales on average.
Why does it work so well? Well, when your fans see you rocking your own stuff, it shows them that you actually like what you created. They trust your style and want to follow your lead. Plus, when they see you actually using the products yourself, it’s way more convincing than just tossing up a stock image of your merch.
So, with that in mind, follow the steps below to start using samples to amp up your sales!
Step 1: Order your samples
Before going any further, you’ll need to actually order samples of your products in order to start using them in your content.
To order samples, watch this video or follow the steps below:
Click “Order a sample” of the product you want to order
Fill out your shipping and payment information
Click “Place your order”
You can also click here to go directly to your listings page.
Samples take a few days to arrive, so make sure you order them at least a week before you want to start posting content about your products!
Step 2: Create content with your samples
Alright, now that you’ve got those product samples in hand, it’s time to get creative with how you show them off to your crew. Here are some creative ways to promote your products in your content:
Unboxing Videos
Time to spread the hype! Share the excitement of receiving your products with your audience by creating unboxing videos. Show every detail and capture your genuine reactions. This personal touch can significantly increase engagement and anticipation among your followers.
Styled Photo Shoots
Get your creative juices flowing with a photo shoot featuring your products in different settings and styles. Whether it’s a professional shoot or DIY at home, showcase how your products can be incorporated into everyday life or special occasions. Experiment with various backdrops, lighting, and accessories to create visually appealing content.
Live Try-On Party
Host live or recorded try-on sesh where you demo your products in real-time. Invite your audience to ask questions, provide feedback, and even vote on their favorite styles or designs. This interactive approach not only showcases your products but also helps you create community and invites your fans in on helping you make your future product designs.
Product Comparison Reviews
Put your products to the test by comparing them to similar products you have hanging around your home. If you threw your design on a coffee mug, show it next to a plain white mug that makes yours pop. Or if you have a tank top, hang it side-by-side to an everyday tank that is easily outshadowed by yours.
Outfit Ideas
If your product samples include apparel or accessories, show your fans how you can mix and match them with other pieces to make a complete outfit. For example, if you have a branded tee, then throw on a blazer, some jeans, and some shoes that make your merch pop. If you have a summer tote bag, then try on a cute summer fit that goes great with you bag.
Influencer Collaborations
Team up with other influencers to spread the word about your products. Join forces for epic collabs like photo shoots, videos, or giveaways that showcase both your brands. It’s a win-win that’ll help you reach new audiences and boost your street cred.
Storytelling and Brand Narratives
Share the heart and soul of your brand through storytelling. Whether it’s sharing personal anecdotes, customer testimonials, or the inspiration behind your merch, weave a compelling narrative that connects with your crew on a deeper level. It’s not just about selling merch – it’s about building a community.
Now go order some samples!
By showcasing your products in creative and authentic ways, you not only boost engagement with your audience but also establish trust and credibility.
Whether it’s through unboxing videos, styled photo shoots, or user-generated content campaigns, each approach offers a unique opportunity to connect with your fans on a deeper level and drive them towards making a purchase. So, don’t hesitate to dive in, get creative, and let your products and your designs shine – your sales will thank you for it!
Have you ever wondered what makes some content creators stand out from the crowd while others blend into the background? Here’s the secret: it’s all about the media kit!
Your media kit is key to forming exciting brand partnerships, streamlined collaboration processes, and a seriously polished professional image. Sure, your follower count might already turn heads, but a top-notch media kit goes the extra mile by giving brands the back-end details they crave – audience demographics, engagement rates, and past collaborations.
Keep reading to learn how a media kit will benefit you, step-by-step instructions on how to create one for yourself, and where to put it.
Benefits of creating a media kit:
Media kits are like your superhero cape in the world of content creation, and they come with three superpowers:
1. Showcase Your Influence:
Think of your media kit as your chance to strut your stuff and show brands just how awesome you are. Whether it’s your impressive follower count or your sky-high engagement rates, your media kit is the perfect place to flaunt your metrics and prove why brands should be falling over themselves to work with you.
2. Streamlining Collaboration:
Let’s face it, nobody has time for endless back-and-forth emails and negotiations. But with a killer media kit, you can cut through the noise and make it super easy for brands to see why you’re the perfect fit for their next campaign.
3. Elevating Your Brand Image:
Your media kit is more than just a bunch of numbers on a page – it’s your chance to show brands that you mean business. By putting together a slick, professional media kit, you’re telling brands that you’re serious about your craft and that you’re ready to take your content to the next level. Plus, it’s a great way to stand out from the crowd and make a lasting impression on potential partners.
How to create an epic media kit:
Below we’ve outlined all the steps you need to take in order to create a kick-ass media kit that will impress potential partners. Follow them to create yours!
1. Define Your Brand Identity:
Start by diving deep into what makes your brand unique. Are you the ultimate DIY diva with a knack for turning trash into treasure? Maybe you’re the go-to guru for all things gaming, slaying Twitch streams like nobody’s business. Whatever it is, own it! Define your brand’s vibe, tone, and values. Think of it like creating your brand’s mood board—except it’s all about you!
2. Drop Those Contact Deets:
Now, let’s make it easy for potential partners to slide into your DMs. Share your deets—full name or brand name, contact info, website URL, and social handles.
3. Describe Your Content:
Clearly lay out what type of content you create so a brand/company can quickly assess if you’ll be compatible for what they’re looking for. Whether you’re a master storyteller on YouTube, a meme connoisseur on TikTok, or a podcast prodigy, let ’em know what you bring to the table.
You’ll also want to highlight your top-performing content pieces, from viral videos to blog posts that broke the internet. Don’t be afraid to flaunt your creativity and show potential partners what sets your content apart from the rest.
Example (for a beauty vlogger):
I’m your go-to for all things beauty and makeup, and share my tips and tricks on TikTok (1.1 M followers), YouTube (56K subscribers), and Instagram (28K followers).
My Top-Performing Content:
10-Minute Makeup Transformation (YouTube): This video gained 2.3 million views and shows how I apply my makeup when I only have 10 minutes.
Quick 5-Minute Makeup Tutorial (TikTok): This viral video got over 3 million views on TikTok and shows how to apply a full face of makeup with limited products and time.
What Sets Me Apart:
Unlike many beauty influencers, I prioritize authenticity over perfection. I’m not afraid to showcase my imperfections and provide genuine, relatable content that resonates with my audience. No filters, no facades—just real beauty, inside and out.
4. Provide Audience Insights:
Your audience is extremely important to potential partners. They want to know who’s vibing with your content, and see if it makes sense with what they’re selling.
So, spill the tea on your following’s age, location, interests, and what makes them tick. Whether you’re catering to Gen Z gamers, millennial moms, or beauty enthusiasts of all ages, paint a picture of your loyal squad and why they can’t get enough of your content.
Example (for a gamer):
Our squad is a vibrant mix of gamers from all walks of life, but the core crew tends to fall in the 18-34 age range. We’re talking about serious gamers and tech buffs who are all about staying on top of the latest gaming trends, reviews, and tips.
As for the gender breakdown, it’s about 70% guys and 30% girls hanging out with us. But guess what? We’re seeing more and more awesome ladies joining the fun every day! Our community isn’t bound by borders either—we’ve got gamers tuning in from all over, whether they’re chilling in North America, Europe, or kicking it in the Asia-Pacific region.
We connect with our peeps across platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Discord, where we dive deep into gaming culture, live streams, and epic esports showdowns.
5. List Out Engagement Metrics:
Let’s talk numbers, baby! How’s your engagement looking? Drop those digits—website traffic, followers, likes, comments—all of it! Show ’em you’re not just talking the talk but walking the walk with those sky-high engagement rates.
Example:
YouTube:
Subscribers: 100K
Average Views per Video: 40K
Engagement Rate: 10%
TikTok:
Followers: 500K
Monthly Likes: 640K
Average Likes per Video: 10K
Average Comments per Video: 90
Instagram:
Followers: 200K
Engagement Rate: 15%
Average Likes per Post: 2K
Average Comments per Post: 45
6. Show Off Previous Partnerships:
Time to flex those collab muscles! Share your previous partnerships, collabs, and sponsored gigs. Name-drop those big-name brands you’ve been strutting your stuff with. Whether it’s rocking the latest makeup from Sephora or repping those must-have sneakers from Nike, let ’em know who you’ve been cozying up to.
Showing who you’ve worked with can up your credibility and make you more desirable to other brands.
Example (for a lifestyle content creator):
FabFitFun (January 2023 – Present): Teamed up with FabFitFun to showcase their seasonal subscription boxes, featuring unboxing videos and product reviews. Our collaboration has garnered over 500K views on YouTube and sparked lively discussions on social media.
Urban Outfitters (May 2022 – September 2022): Partnered with Urban Outfitters for a summer style campaign, showcasing their latest fashion trends and lifestyle products. Our collaboration resulted in a 18% increase in engagement on Instagram and drove traffic to Urban Outfitters’ website.
HelloFresh (October 2021 – December 2021): Collaborated with HelloFresh to share easy and delicious meal prep ideas with my audience. Our partnership led to a 25% increase in engagement on TikTok and boosted brand awareness for HelloFresh among my followers.
Peloton (March 2021 – July 2021): Teamed up with Peloton to promote their fitness equipment and digital workout classes. Through sponsored workout challenges and motivational content, we saw a 20% increase in engagement on Instagram and drove conversions to Peloton’s website.
Airbnb Experiences (August 2020 – December 2020): Partnered with Airbnb to explore unique travel experiences and destinations. Our collaboration inspired my audience to book Airbnb Experiences, resulting in an 8% increase in bookings and positive feedback from participants.
7. Keep It Fresh:
Update your media kit regularly with all the latest and greatest about your brand. After all, you’re always evolving, so why shouldn’t your media kit? Try updating it every month to make sure you keep your metrics and content hits as recent as possible.
Where to Put Your Media Kit
Alright, so you’ve got all this awesome content ready to showcase, but now you’re wondering: “How do I lay it all out in a way that’s gonna grab attention and keep ’em hooked?”
Well, your media kit needs a home—a digital hub where it can shine like the superstar it is. The best place to put your media kit is on a dedicated landing page on your website.
Now, let’s talk design. Your landing page should be sleek, stylish, and totally on-brand. Show off your personality and vibe from the get-go, so visitors know what they’re in for if they partner with you.
Next up is organization. Break your content down into bite-sized chunks—think sections like “About Me,” “Content Showcase,” and “Collaboration Opportunities.” Each section should be easy to navigate, with clear headings and plenty of visual flair to keep things interesting.
And don’t forget those calls to action! Whether it’s inviting visitors to reach out for collabs or encouraging them to explore more of your content, make sure there’s always a next step for them to take.
That’s it!
So, there you have it—your guide to slaying the media kit game like a true content queen (or king). Now go forth, dazzle those potential partners, and make your content dreams a reality! You’ve got this!
Spring makes it easy for you to create products and make money selling them. However, many of our users struggle to make even one sale. If that’s you, or you believe you’re not getting as many sales as you should, don’t sweat it! Check out the steps below to learn the secrets to creating and selling like a boss on Spring!
1. Design Graphics Tailored to Your Following
Your fans are your biggest supporters–and who you’re selling your products too,–so make them the inspiration behind your designs. Center your creations around those special moments from your content that your fans know and love—the funny jokes, the memorable quotes, or even your beloved sidekick, like your pet. Let your designs reflect the vibe of your community, with a playful touch that only your true fans will appreciate.
If you’re stuck on what to make, take advantage of your social media fam by running polls or surveys to get their input directly. Find out what designs they’re vibing with, what gets them excited, and let their feedback guide your creative process.
And if you’re looking for some extra design mojo, dive into the world of AI design tools. Check out these three free platforms:
Canva:
Canva is a great beginner tool with an easy interface that makes designing images and text easy to do. It also offers a new AI feature where you can request specific images to be created for you.
Pixlr:
Whether you’re a newbie or a pro, Pixlr’s AI-powered tools have got you covered. From basic edits to cool effects that’ll make your designs pop, Pixlr makes it easy to bring your vision to life.
Gravit Designer:
Try vector design with Gravit Designer’s intuitive features and AI-driven capabilities. With powerful tools at your fingertips, you’ll be creating captivating designs in no time.
With these tools in your arsenal, you’ll be whipping up designs that speak directly to your audience, paving the way for a merch launch that’s as unique as you are.
2. Pick the Perfect Products
When it comes to choosing products for your designs, think about what your fans would actually want to snag. If you’re a gaming creator, consider slapping your designs on desk mats, phone cases, and other cool tech gear. Or, if you’re more into the fitness scene, try leggings, sports bras, or water bottles. You want to make sure you cater to your audience’s interests.
You’ll also want to keep the seasons in mind. When the chilly weather rolls around, cozy hoodies and long sleeves are a must-have. But when the sun’s shining, tank tops and board shorts are where it’s at.
Spring gives you the green light to launch as many products as your heart desires. Why? So you can experiment, of course! Test out different designs and product types to see what gets your followers buzzing. And hey, if something doesn’t quite hit the mark, no sweat—you can easily unlist it and move on to the next big thing.
But here’s where the magic happens: Take note of what works and what doesn’t. What designs have your fans raving? What products are flying off the shelves? Use that golden info to fine-tune your strategy for future launches and keep the good vibes rolling.
4. Highlight Your Hottest Hits
Give your best sellers the spotlight they deserve and make them easier for your fans to find on your storefront.
Here’s how to place products at the front of your store:
Click on Stores on the left-hand menu.
Select Edit Store
Click Products
From there, you can star any products you want to feature at the top of your store.
5. Order Samples and Use Them in Your Content
Using samples in your content can increase your sales by 300%! So get your hands on some samples of your products and incorporate them into your content strategy. Whether it’s unboxing videos, photoshoots, or giveaways, showing off your products in action can drive interest and sales.
Once you have your designs and products live, it’s time to turn up the volume on your socials and get the word out about your awesome merch! Hit up all the platforms where your fans hang out and start showing off your awesome products.
Whip up some eye-catching social graphics and videos that showcase your products in all their glory. Talk ’em up, show ’em off—whatever it takes to get your fans excited to hit that “add to cart” button.
Also, don’t forget to drop your store link in your bio to make shopping for your products easy, as well as add our social integrations.
7. Reach Out with Email Campaigns
Email campaigns are a great way to boost sales and keep your fans engaged/aware of your new drops.
If you have an email list, use it to share exciting updates about your latest merch drops, exclusive deals, or behind-the-scenes peeks into your creative process. With the right message, you’ll have ’em hitting that “buy now” button in no time.
If you don’t have access to an email list, but have gotten a lot of sales, reach out to us at creatorsupport@spri.ng. We’ve got your back, and we’re here to help you make magic happen.
Now Go Start Earning!
Our platform is designed to help you earn with ease, and with these tips in mind, you can become unstoppable!
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter for weekly tips and tricks on how to succeed on Spring!
Now that winter is behind us, it’s the perfect time to amp up your sales with some seriously hot springtime products. These 10 must-haves aren’t just any old items – they’re the ones that your fans are craving as the weather starts to warm up. And here’s the best part: by adding them to your store and putting your own spin on them, you can take your sales to the next level without needing to come up with a bunch of new designs.
Just drop your best sellers on products like Dad Hats for those laid-back park hangs, Premium Tank Tops for sunny days, and Coach Jackets for when the weather’s playing games. These items are already selling like crazy, and by adding your branding or designs to them, you’re giving your fans exactly what they want – with a personalized twist.
So check out these springtime essentials, add your unique touch, and get ready to crush it this season while keeping your fans looking fresh and feeling connected to your brand. Let’s make this spring the best one yet!
Your fans are all about that effortless, laid-back style, especially as the weather warms up. A dad hat is the perfect accessory to top off any spring outfit, whether they’re heading to a music festival or just chilling in the park.
By adding your designs or branding to these hats, you’re giving your fans a way to rep their favorite creator while staying on-trend.
Spring is all about shedding those layers and rocking your favorite tees. Your fans will love the softness and quality of these premium shirts, making them a go-to choice for everyday wear.
Spring weather can be unpredictable, but your fans will be prepared with these stylish coach jackets. They’re perfect for those breezy days or light showers, making them a practical and fashionable choice for any springtime adventure.
As the temperatures rise, your fans will be looking for lightweight and breathable clothing options. These premium tank tops fit the bill perfectly, offering comfort and style in equal measure.
Whether your fans are hitting the gym or lounging at home, they’ll appreciate the comfort and versatility of these athletic-fit leggings. Plus, the trendy designs you add to them will make them stand out from the crowd, turning them into a must-have item for any spring wardrobe.
Whether it’s for a weekend getaway or a trip to the gym, duffle bags are a springtime essential that your fans won’t be able to resist. Made from durable spun polyester and featuring ample storage space, these duffle bags combine practicality with style.
Get your fans ready for pool parties and beach vacations with all-over print (AOP) swim trunks that make a bold statement. Crafted from a blend of polyester and spandex, these swim trunks offer comfort and flexibility in and out of the water.
Treat your female fans to some seriously stylish swimwear that’s both flattering and comfortable. Made from a blend of polyester and spandex, these swimsuits offer a comfortable and supportive fit, perfect for lounging by the pool or soaking up the sun at the beach.
Add a touch of retro flair to your spring collection with denim bucket hats that exude casual coolness. Made from 100% cotton denim, these hats are both stylish and functional, offering protection from the sun while making a fashion statement.
Adding your unique designs and branding to these springtime essentials is a no-brainer. Not only will it give your fans a way to support you and show off their love for your brand, but it’ll also take your sales to the next level by letting your fans shop the products they need this spring.
So go ahead, get creative, and give your fans something they’ll be excited to buy this spring!
Short-form videos are taking the stage across social media.
They have the power to go viral, increase engagement, captivate audiences, and best of all, get your sales to shoot through the roof when you use them to show off your merch!
Sometimes it’s a good idea to get a visual for how much of a big deal something is. Take a look below at how effective short-form videos really are in your world.
So if you’re ready to learn 7 creative ways to use short-form videos to boost your merch sales, we’re ready to help!
1. Product Demos
People wish they could physically touch a product when they shop online, but obviously they can’t. So help them live that experience through you (or someone you ask or hire to demonstrate handling, using, or wearing your product). Showcasing a sample of your product is a “virtual shopping” experience that helps the potential buyer see what your product looks like in the real world.
Make sure you highlight the key benefits and features of your product. Brevity is the soul of wit, so keep the dialogue lean and to the point. Online, attention spans last even shorter than IRL.
Also, actions matter, not words. No one wants to hear about your product. They want to see it in action. When you show it, your product is literally doing the talking (in action) for you.
Lastly, don’t be boring. Whether it be catchy music, humor or creative editing, show off your personality and keep it fun. The two key words to focus on here are: informative & entertaining! The more engagement you keep up with your fans, the more sales and long-term customers you acquire.
2. Behind-the-Scenes
There are many reasons why BTS videos are a good idea, but here are two really strong ones:
It forms an emotional bond between you and your audience. They see you in every day action, which shows that you’re human just like them. They see that you have to deal with the same every day trials and tribulations that they do. Who doesn’t want to support someone that they can relate to?
It builds trust and authenticity. Your audience sees the actual processes and people involved in creating your amazing designs. This also gives them a story to pass along when people ask, “hey, where did you get that?”
3. User-Generated Content
Have you ever heard someone say, “No one likes a braggart. But if other people brag about you, it gets attention.” User-generated content (UGC) is the online version of other people bragging about you.
Encourage your customers to create and share their own short-form videos featuring your products (if they’re happy with it, of course). If need be, offer incentives to do so. This not only generates authentic content but it fosters a sense of community around your brand—Something you will already be building if you have followed steps 1 and 2!
People also like to be given the greenlight to make their own creative calls. Let them decide what kind of video to make (unless they request you to come up with the idea). It makes them feel like part of the team, knowing they can showcase your merch in a fun and unique way.
User-generated content (UGC) promotes trust and absolutely influences buying decisions.
4. Brand Awareness on Social Media
Ask yourself where short videos are mostly seen. Tiktok? Facebook? YouTube? Instagram? The answer is all of the above (and more) but these platforms have the most massive user bases. The best thing about these platforms, though, is that they offer a lot of ways to promote videos, such as algorithmic recommendations, discovery pages, hashtags, and more. They are also easily shareable not just on the platform but in messaging apps. When viewers like a video or think it’s interesting, it’s so simple to share it (it’s probably harder to NOT share it lol), increasing exposure of your brand and its reach (maybe to the point of going viral). If it does, in fact, go viral, you’re looking at widespread brand awareness immediately.
When it comes to increasing brand awareness, not all short-form videos on social media are created equal, however. Here are a couple quick suggestions:
Customer testimonials. Share positive reviews and feedback from real customers who’ve experienced your product firsthand. This includes their thoughts, emotions, and experiences about how the product has either improved or impacted their lives for the better. This is similar to UGC, but sometimes you can’t get them to make a video of their own, so you need to incorporate fragments into your content.
How-to or challenge videos. How-tos can teach an important skill and they’re always popular. Same with challenge videos, where you ask your fans to compete or complete a task. Again, these build trust and credibility. Don’t forget to make the videos humorous and fun! In fact, humor is the number one common trait between most successful videos.
Unboxing or reviewing videos. These typically include showcasing the unpacking of your product for the very first time. In recent years, these videos have gained massive popularity, and they’re an amazing way to engage your audience. Note: Don’t do a fake “unboxing” video. It must be authentic because no one is really that good of an actor, not even actors. Authenticity is so important because it’s essential to be genuine and allow the excitement to shine through as the product is discovered and explored. And once again, what does this build? We’ll say it over and over and over again because it’s the key to everything involved in being successful: Connection on a personal level, trust, and credibility.
5. Team-up with Influencers
The hot-button word of the moment is “collab.” Collaborating with influencers can significantly widen the reach of your brand. A lot of influencers have engaged followers across multiple channels. If one of them endorses your products, you just hit a whole new audience.
One of the greatest ways to partner with influencers is in the short-form video format. Either influencers can create short videos, showing their audience your products, you can make the video with the influencer for your audience, or ideally, both! Any of the types of videos we covered in point #4 will work. The more the merrier!
6. Q & A with Customers
You would think we’ve harped on connection, trust, and credibility enough, right? Well….one of the best ways of building those three key elements is to hold a Q & A. Sometimes your fans have questions. Sometimes it’s tough to get to each individual. If this is the case, hop on a Q & A video and answer those questions. Be funny or at least light-hearted and sweet about it. Bots don’t take care of everything. Plus, people (your fans) want that personal connection. And who wants to pay a live agent out of their revenue? I’m sure you don’t. Make it known you will be holding a Q & A every month or so. It’s fine to have a FAQ section on your site, but you will be answering these questions with more nuance and a personal touch.
Also, think beyond just providing “answers.” You can provide step-by-step explanations, product demonstrations, and examples. Studies have shown that this clarity reduces frustration and confusion on the viewers part, leading to higher customer satisfaction.
7. Contest Teasers
Who doesn’t love a contest? They’re a no-brainer if you want to reach a larger audience. Contests also create buzz around upcoming product launches, and short-form videos are one of the best ways to execute buzz. Here are some tips on how to go about using short-form videos to hype up a contest:
Playfully hint at contest details.
Feature catchy jingles, quirky characters, or a mini storyline that leaves your fans craving more.
Keep the videos short and snappy. Give fans a taste of what’s in store but don’t give away all the juicy details.
Keep it fun and think outside the box. The more memorable it is, the more it gets shared with their friends. The more they share, the more your visibility and reach increases.
Highlight the prizes that can be won. Showcase them in an engaging and creative way, and make sure they’re aligned with your target audience’s interests and your brand.
Make the prizes really enticing. The more enticing, the more eager people will be to share your videos and enter the contest.
In Closing
These 7 surefire strategies will help you use short-form videos to boost your popularity and your sales. Since videos are really what the entire planet is responding to right now, the possibilities are endless. So start filming and happy selling!
Going viral is one of the best things that can happen to content creators. Not only does it boost your followers and make you internet-famous, but it can also fill your wallet—especially if you know how to turn that moment into awesome merch.
So, if you have content that blew up or got tons of likes and shares, don’t let it slip away! Take that moment, turn it into a killer design, and slap it on merch to sell to your fans.
When done right, viral moments translated into designs can deeply resonate with your audience and ignite excitement for them to purchase. Plus, it’s a cool way for them to show off their fandom to their buddies who love your stuff too.
Ready to turn your viral moment into a merch empire? Check out our tips below and let’s make some merch magic happen!
1. Strike While It’s Hot:
Timing is key when it comes to cashing in on a viral moment. Don’t hesitate—start brainstorming merch ideas as soon as your video starts blowing up.
If you’re feeling stuck on what to create, consider these things:
Was there a line in your content that had everyone laughing or quoting it in the comments? This could be a good line to throw on some merch.
Could any freeze frame from your video be turned into a funny meme?
What are people chatting about in the comments? Is there a theme that keeps popping up?
By asking these questions, you’ll get a good idea of what kind of merch would really hit home with your fans.
For instance, let’s say your viral moment captured you busting a move with your grandpa, and everyone in the comments couldn’t get enough of his smooth moves. You could turn that into a meme with him rocking digital sunglasses and the caption “I leave no crumbs.” Then, slap that meme on coffee mugs, shirts, notebooks—whatever you think your audience would love.
But remember, don’t spend ages agonizing over the perfect design. The quicker you act, the more impact your merch will have.
2. Keep It On-Brand:
When creating your merch design, it’s important to keep it on-brand and give it the familiar vibes that people already associate with you and your content. So whether it’s a hilarious catchphrase, a jaw-dropping discovery, or a signature move that got everyone hyped, your design should still resonate with your brand.
Why? Here are a few reasons staying on brand is so important:
Brand Recognition
Keeping your merch consistent with your brand helps your fans instantly know it’s yours. When they see your merch, they should be like, “Oh yeah, that’s [Your Name]’s stuff!” It makes them more likely to buy it and rep it proudly and allows them to easily bond with other fans of yours when they’re out and about.
Emotional Connection
You’ve built up a real bond with your audience over time, right? Your brand represents all the things they love about you—your humor, your positivity, your unique perspective. So when your merch reflects that, it strengthens the connection even more.
Making It All Fit
Your merch should feel like it’s part of the bigger picture of you and your content. Whether your fans are watching your videos, scrolling through your socials, or rocking your merch, everything should feel like it’s from the same awesome universe. When it’s all consistent, it creates this super cool experience for your fans that they can’t get enough of.
With that in mind, here are some tips to help you stay on brand as you transform your viral moment into a design your fans will instantly recognize as yours:
Think about what makes your brand unique and incorporate those vibes into your merch designs. Whether you’re all about humor, positivity, or breaking boundaries, try to add some of that into your viral moment merch design.
Keep your design in line with your overall aesthetic. Whether you’re into bold and colorful or chill and minimalist, translate your viral moment into your style.
Don’t forget to use your existing brand elements, like logos and colors, if it makes sense, to tie everything together and make your merch instantly recognizable.
3. Get Creative with Products:
Choosing the right products for your merch is key to turning your viral moment into a cash cow!
Here’s how to pick products that will have your fans lining up to buy:
Know Your Audience
Consider what your fans are into and choose products that match their style. Whether they’re gamers, fitness freaks, or everyday parents, pick merch items that they’ll actually want to buy and use. If you’re not sure which to choose, browse our Core Collections for ideas.
Think Outside the Box
Don’t stick to the basics—get creative with your merch ideas! From socks to pet tees, explore unique products that stand out and make a statement.
Stay Practical
While being creative is important, make sure your merch is also practical and useful. Choose items that people can use in their daily lives, like water bottles or tote bags, to ensure maximum exposure for your brand. Also, coffee mugs are one of the best sellers and easy gift ideas, so consider adding your viral moment to one!
Test and Learn
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different products and see what resonates with your audience. Gather feedback and use it to refine your merch lineup over time, ensuring that you’re always offering what your fans want.
4. Get Your Fans Involved:
Your fans are the heart and soul of your content, so why not make them an integral part of your merch-making journey? Start by sharing sneak peeks of your designs on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. Let them see the creative process unfold in real-time and give them a glimpse behind the scenes.
But don’t stop there—ask for their input and feedback! Run polls or contests to let them vote on their favorite designs, colors, or slogans. Not only does this make your fans feel valued and appreciated, but it also gives them a sense of ownership over the final product. And when your fans feel like they’ve had a hand in creating your merch, they’ll be even more excited to rock it and show it off to the world.
5. Shout It from the Rooftops
Last but not least, once your merch is live, go all out spreading the news!
Here are some of the best ways to do that:
Blast it on Social Media
Your social media platforms are your megaphone, so use them to their full potential! Post about your merch on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and any other platforms where your fans hang out. Remind everyone of your viral moment and why you created this merch.
Order Samples
Samples can increase your sales by 300%, so don’t be afraid to order yours! Once you have your samples in hand, you can use them in your content and advertise them without even saying a word about it! Fans that see you wearing or using products that remind them of your viral moment will be intrigued and want to get their hands on them. After all, you’re internet famous, so who doesn’t want to copy you?
Host Giveaways or Contests
Everyone loves free stuff, so why not host a giveaway or contest to drum up excitement for your merch launch? Offer prizes like exclusive merch bundles, signed merch items, or even a virtual hangout with you. Encourage your fans to participate by sharing your merch launch posts, tagging their friends, or creating user-generated content related to your merch. Giveaways and contests are a fun and interactive way to engage your fans and generate buzz around your merch launch.
Create FOMO
Use scarcity and limited-time offers to create a sense of urgency and encourage your fans to act fast. After all, your viral moment will probably only have a short time under the sun, so creating FOMO around your merch is a good plan no matter what.
Engage with Your Fans
Don’t forget to keep the party going with your fans during your merch launch! Reply to their comments and messages, give them a big thanks for all the love, and make sure they feel like they’re in on the action. Encourage them to show off their new merch on social media, especially because so many people will have seen your viral moment. Building that sense of community and connection with your fans will make your merch launch even more successful!
What’s next?
In the end, turning your viral moments into hot-selling merch is not just about capitalizing on a trend—it’s about building an epic connection with your fans. By getting creative, sticking to your vibe, and making your fans feel like they’re part of the squad, you can take a moment and turn it into a merch sensation.
Remember, timing is key, so don’t sleep on brainstorming those merch ideas while the hype’s still fresh. Keep it real, keep it you, and keep your fans in the loop every step of the way.
Stay tuned for more content that will help add more zeros to your bank account and become the content creator everyone knows about.
It’s that time of year when love is in the air, and what better way to celebrate the month of February than by shouting out some of our absolute rockstar creators!
From killer designs to epic success stories, these creators taken their passions and turned them into dollar signs using Spring. Plus, they’ve been able to build tighter bonds with their communities through some seriously cool branded merch that fans can bring straight into their home.
Meet Max Randolph, a visionary blacksmith who creates stunning metal sculptures and dynamic architectural pieces. For the past 20 years, Max has been unlocking the hidden possibilities of steel, blending artistry with craftsmanship. Fueled by his passion for creativity, he constantly pushes the boundaries of metalwork to bring his visions to life.
When Max embarks on a new project, his creations first come to life through captivating illustrations, capturing the essence of the craft that will later take shape in the forge. These handcrafted prints are unique originals, reflecting the dynamic energy and fluidity characteristic of Max’s metallurgical mastery.
Max has now added these captivating illustrations into an incredible lineup of products, which you can explore right here.
Next up is Norm Nakamura, the creative force behind Tokyo Lens, a Japan-based YouTuber whose adventures have hooked nearly 1 million subscribers. Norm’s journey kicked off as an apprentice of the Yoshida Brothers, where he started documenting his daily life. But over time, his channel has become a vibrant hub showcasing Japan’s diverse culture and lifestyle.
From uncovering hidden villages to shining a spotlight on Japanese craftsmen, Norm’s videos offer a fresh take on life in Japan. With a passion for tiny apartments and unique experiences, Norm’s videos are always buzzing with energy.
Norm has also expanded his brand with merchandise, including a custom plushie inspired by his beloved shamisen. This limited edition plushie celebrates Norm’s gratitude to the shamisen world that has shaped his journey in Japan. Check out all his merch here.
Shantel Tessier is a bestselling romance and suspense author whose stories have captured readers worldwide. Shantel’s talent for crafting gripping plots and unforgettable characters has landed her on the USA Today & Wall Street Journal Bestseller lists.
Outside of her writing career, Shantel is happily married to her high school sweetheart, who is a wonderfully supportive husband. When she’s not lost in the world of storytelling, Shantel loves to spend time cuddled up on the couch with a good book. She considers herself extremely lucky to pursue her passion while wearing pajamas.
Thanks to Spring, Shantel has been able to take her novels to the next level by putting moments and quotes on merch. Now, fans can bring their favorite stories to life in their own homes, adding a touch of magic to their everyday lives. It’s not just about the books—it’s about creating a community where fans can truly immerse themselves in Shantel’s world. See her collection here.
Week 2: Celebrating Love-Inspired Designs!
Going into the second week of February, we can’t get more love-filled than with the celebration of Valentine’s Day. Take a look at some creators who launched some rockstar mech for the holiday and read about a creator with a story that will pull on your heart.
A Smiley Brand
You probably already know of our first highlight this week, A Smiley Brand, or better known as YouTube baddy Bobby Mares. Starting out as a musician combining music with technology to create a brand-new sound, he quickly graduated to making entertaining YouTube videos.
Whether it’s his tags, challenges, or collaboration videos with popular stars like Kian Lawley, JC Caylen, and Franny Arrieta, this vlogger with a huge heart (don’t tell anyone he now has a gf) will capture yours. With over 700,000 subscribers and rapidly growing, his videos range from melting hearts to spooking the crap out of his audience with creepy moments in haunted locations.
Being a vlogger isn’t enough for this guy, though, so he also rocks a clothing line called A Smiley Brand with merch that sports his famous logo. It’s perfect for V-Day and beyond.
Jimmy & Clarence
If you’re one of the few who haven’t broken your ribs laughing at the Jimmy and Clarence videos on TikTok, you’re in for a delight. Clarence is America’s funny AF labrador (also known as King Clarence) who speaks via Siri. The videos are from the dog’s POV and the writing is as smart as it is hilarious. Everyone’s favorite dead-pan dog quips about his “hooman” baby brother, his owner Jimmy and his Kim Jong Mom, his adventures at the vet (spoiler alert* he comes back without his manhood), and his faithful girlfriend (a stuffed dog). Check out his IG here.
Official Jimmy and Clarence Merch is available at the JimmyandClarence store, your one-stop-shop for unique t-shirts, accessories, and more. All designs are inspired by the funniest, smoothest cat (erm Black Labrador) on the internet. And he just rolled out some King Clarence merch for Valentine’s Day. So load up on some puppy love.
Alex Kidd
Ready for a story that’ll tug at your heart strings? Enter our next creator Alex Kidd.
Alex started writing about beer and quickly took off. In May 2022 the father of two, attorney, stand up comedian, and beer enthusiast was diagnosed with several types of cancer and has been sharing his journey to recovery openly with his community. In an effort to help raise money for his ongoing treatment, childcare, and various other expenses, he relaunched his popular 2017 Barleywine Otter design and it has done amazingly well since his launch.
“The otter is a nod to a special type of English malt ‘Maris Otter’ which is used to make Barleywine the best beer style in existence. Maris is the mascot for the massive barleywine following of Barleywine Is Life, a group I created in 2017 to celebrate this overlooked style. It now has thousands of members and annual competitions and lore.”
To go more in depth on Alex Kidd, his fascinating take on all things related to beer, and life in general, can be read here. For Valentine’s Day, spread the love and help Alex spread joy through beer. This V-Day, you can spread the love by grabbing some of Alex’s beer-inspired designs here.
Week 1: Let’s Give It Up for Our Black Creators!
To kick things off, we’re shining a spotlight on our amazing black creators for Black History Month. These guys and gals aren’t just making waves – they’re making tidal waves in their communities! So, let’s dive in and get to know ’em a little better!
First up, we’ve got the one and only Tahir Moore. This dude is a straight-up comedy genius! From stand-up to acting to hosting, he does it all – and he does it like a boss. And guess what? He’s been tearing it up on tour with some seriously big names, including D.L. Hughley, Lavell Crawford, Affion Crockett, and more.
But here’s the real kicker – Tahir’s more than a comedy maestro, he’s also a savvy business man. He’s taken some of his viral moments online and turn them into merch designs that his fans can’t wait to buy.
Check out his Spring store here for some seriously rad merch that will hit even harder if you’ve seen his comedy shows or take a peek at some of our favs below.
Next on our list is the one and only Ashley Maurice – a true chess master and all-around legend! At just thirty-three years old, Maurice made history by becoming the very first African American to snag the title of International Grand Master of Chess. Talk about breaking barriers!
Since that groundbreaking moment, Maurice has been spreading his love for chess far and wide. He’s not just a grandmaster – he’s also a three-time national championship coach, a published author, an ESPN commentator, and an absolute motivational powerhouse.
And guess what? Maurice isn’t content with just dominating the chessboard. Nope, he’s taken his passion and poured it into some seriously cool merch that’s as unique as he is. Check out his merch lineup below or hit up his store here for even more chess-tastic products.
Real Men Teach isn’t just some ordinary brand – it’s a full-blown movement! Their goal? To spread nothing but good vibes and positivity about of men of color working in the education system.
Founded by Curtis Valentine, Real Men Teach is all about making a real difference. They’re not just talking the talk – they’re walking the walk by hooking up male educators of color with scholarship funds and teaming up with schools, non-profits, and universities to shake up the way we see men of color in education.
But guess what? They’re not stopping there! Real Men Teach has gone all out by dropping their very own Spring store. And get this – every dime you drop on their gear goes straight to funding scholarships for male educators of color. Talk about putting your money where your heart is!
Their merch designs are inspired by historically Black institutions such as HBCUs and Greek-letter fraternities, serving as a powerful tribute to these legendary traditions.
Ready to show some love and rock some seriously meaningful threads? Dive into their entire store right here or peep some of their standout pieces below.
And last but totally not least, let’s give it up for the super talented Shante Fagans! Hailing from Detroit, Shante is a total creative powerhouse. She’s got skills for days – dancing, snapping killer photos, changing lives as a natural hairstylist, and painting like nobody’s business.
In her artwork, Shante paints vivids portraits, typically showcasing individuals from the chest up against colorful backdrops. With bold colors, patterns, and funky accessories, each piece is a celebration of vibrancy and style. And there’s a signature touch too – her subjects often rock a killer red lip, just like Shante herself..
But here’s the really cool part – Shante’s taken her art game to the next level by turning it into a rad collection of products in her Spring store that are guaranteed to bring some serious flair to any space.
We’ve made some awesome improvements to our platform to make it easier than ever to design, launch, and promote your merch. But as we move to a more dynamnic system, some listings will need to be relaunched in order to stay active.
Read through the blog below for step-by-step instructions to learn how to identify which listings need to be relaunched, save your designs, relaunch your listings, and update all your URLs and Pixels.
What listings need to be relaunched?
To view your listings and check if any need to be relaunched, sign into your Spring account and click “Listings” on the on the lefthand menu.
Next, click the “Show Active” filter and change it to “Old Teespring Designer.”
If you see an icon of a red triangle with an exclamation point beside any of your listings, you’ll need to relaunch them (see image below).
Relaunching will only take a few minutes. Follow the steps below to ensure your creations remain active. Don’t forget the last step, as skipping it might render your original URLs inactive.
How to save your designs
If you don’t have your artwork, you can quickly save it by clicking the download icon next to your listing.
You may need to allow pop-ups if you’re downloading several images.
These images can then be used to relaunch your listings.
NOTE: If you don’t see the download icon, this means the design was created with images or text from the old Teespring designer and there’s no file to download. You’ll need to remake that listing from scratch in our current design launcher.
How to relaunch a listing
Relaunching a listing is easy. Follow these steps to quickly get your new listing live:
Click “Create” on the left menu.
Pick a product.
Upload your artwork or add text.
Choose colors, set your price, and currency.
Click “advanced” for display options in your store.
Hit “Continue.”
Add more products if you want the same design on them.
Hit “Continue” again.
Enter a product description and title.
Click “Launch,” and you’re live!
Update your URL and Pixels
This is one of the most important steps because any listing that becomes inactive will have links that no longer work. Instead of updating all of your links in your link in bio, website, social profiles, and anywhere else you share your merch, just follow the steps below to update your new listing with your original link.
How to change your url
Click “Edit Details” on your original listing.
Copy your URL.
Add “-old” to your original URL and click “Save.”
Go to “Edit Details” on your new listing, paste your original URL, and click “Save.”
How to update pixels
Click “Settings” on your original listing.
Remove pixels, as needed.
Click “Settings” on your new listing.
Add pixels, as needed.
Once this step is complete, you can delete your old listings by clicking Settings, End the listing.
If you’ve never been initiated into the world of Instagram and/or are unaware of its significance, let us put this in perspective: 80% of businesses report that they use the platform to promote their businesses and/or products! That’s one way to know what’s working in the marketplace! If it works for big businesses, it can work for you, too! But first, you need an audience to market to.
So how can you grow your following in a relatively short amount of time?
Here are 10 tips on how to grow your Instagram following so that you have a solid, loyal and engaged audience in 2024 that can help you earn more as a creator.
1. Start Posting Reels
In the beginning, Instagram was just a photo sharing app. But it quickly realized the value of video and launched its Stories feature: a way to post short vertical-videos viewable only to followers, visitors to your page, and friends.
Enter Reels. These are public-facing, meaning everyone can watch it (and it opens the door to going viral). Reels should be in your Instagram strategy due to their high engagement rates, as opposed to Instagram posts.
Check out this one by Don Marshall where he promotes his LOTR calendar!
Reels get 42% more likes than posts, and four times the number of shares. It’s a quick way to gain more followers AND increase merch sales.
Here are some tips when comes to Reels:
Follow trends but be unique. You want to put your own spin on trends that are hot on TikTok, Instagram and across the web.
Provide valuable information. Product hacks and lifestyle tips are always popular. Find that sweet spot between education and entertainment, whether it’s industry info, funny takes on trends, product demos, tips, how-to videos, etc.
When making your reels, don’t try to overtly sell your products. Get people emotionally engaged with your content so they will want to follow you to see more. Then they’ll discover your products (and be more inclined to buy).
2. Optimize Your IG Profile
New users will first find you from a post that pops up in their feed (or on the Explore page – more on that below). If they like your content, the next step is for them to click on your profile. Here is where you can gain or lose a follower.
Make sure your profile represents you and your content. You need a unified vision. If someone finds you from a Cat video, but your profile is all about football…you’re not clearly communicating what you’re about. It is for this reason that your brand should show up in the same way on your profile that it would on any other social channels, your Spring store, and product designs. Think of all of it as the billboard for your brand.
💡Tip: You can use Instagram’s native scheduling feature to plan and schedule Instagram posts and Reels to create the overall look and layout of your feed.
3. Collaborate With Other Creators
The sad (or awesome, depending on your situation) truth is that when an influencer or celebrity tells someone to use a product through their words or actions, they just reached a new stratosphere of the customer base.
In fact, 61% of consumers say they trust influencer recommendations. When someone we know (or know of) endorses something, we’re more likely to trust them than someone who may have a better product (but we don’t know who they are or if their product is good).
Look for creators in your niche that have something in common with you and your brand (and make sure they have a good following). It’s a chance for both of you to broaden your fan base.
4. Implement a Hashtag Strategy
Using hashtags is a great way to show up in search results when users search for content similar to yours.
A common strategy is using hashtags that users often search up or a current trend that’s exploding online. These hashtags, however, tend to be saturated.
One way around it could be to pick popular hashtags that are close to your niche.
Maybe pick some of those and put your own spin on it. Also check out other creators in your niche to see how they are tagging their posts and hop on that train. The goal is to capture a broader audience, and since most people don’t put a limit on who they follow, go after every niche you can.
Use hashtags in Reels and Stories, too! In Stories, you can use hashtag stickers (which can be found in the Instagram Stickers menu when creating a Story) or just hashtag directly in your post captions. Since users can also follow hashtags, your Stories have a chance to be seen by those who are following that hashtag—not just your followers.
Hashtags in Reels are added in the third stage of the Reel-creation process. Add and edit your video before proceeding to a screen where you can add account tags, location tags, and hashtags.
💡Tip: To bump old content, add hashtags to comments or use the edit feature on Instagram to add them to the captions after posting.
5. Time Your Posts
When are IG users most active? You want to post at high traffic times, not during the dead zone when your target audience is offline.
We’re not here to endorse one over another, but there are multiple social media scheduling tools that will help you determine when the best time to post is based on your target audience.
If you’re curious about a basic guideline, see below for some general “best times”, but if you sell tees and hoodies about night life to a target audience that wakes up at 3 in the afternoon…you get the idea.
Best times to post on Instagram (regardless of time zone)
Weekdays 7AM – 9AM (catch users after they wake up and before work)
Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays 6PM – 8PM (catch the “I’m almost off work” crowd)
Fridays 4PM (TGIF)
Saturdays & Sundays after 4PM (the daytime is slower than weekdays, but picks up toward evening)
6. Sell Branded Products to Build UGC (User-Generated Content)
User-generated content (UGC), whether it be photos, videos, written reviews, audio, and more—is content that is created about a brand by a customer, fan, or follower.
This is invaluable when you have users out there doing your job for you! At some point, your brand could actually be running itself. Not really, but isn’t it nice to know someone else is helping to carry the load? UGC gives your brand credibility but also further reach (by all of that user’s followers) which ultimately means more followers for you.
When you design custom merch, you are inviting fans into your brand by letting it now be part of their life. When they post on social media, you now have a chance for your brand to reach new users. So ask your customers to post when they purchase!
Check out this IG post from a fan wearing merch by our creator @Indeimaus!
Create a branded hashtag feed where customers can post images after they purchase your product.
Add a call to action in your Instagram bio to purchase and post.
Run a contest; ask for video or photo reviews of your products as entries.
Reach out to smaller influencers and offer them free products for an honest review.
7. Organize Your IG Stories Into Highlights
Instagram Stories disappear after 24 hours. That’s why you want to organize your Stories into Story Highlights. What this does is increase the chances for new visitors to your page to get a taste of your past content.
When you use Highlights, Stories can be grouped into collections. Yesterday’s Story could lead to today’s new follower x100.
You can organize Stories a number of ways. Here are a few:
Create trailers that tease what your brand is about.
Organize your Stories into seasons, themes, product collections, or content type (product launches, DIYs, behind the scenes, etc.).
To stay fresh and relevant, create a new highlight each time you launch a new product or collection.
Accumulate user-generated content into one Highlight to honor and celebrate your loyal customers.
💡Tip: Nudge your followers to become subscribers. Instagram Subscriptions allow you to offer exclusive content to paying subscribers—one of the easiest ways to make money on Instagram.
8. Throw a Giveaway
One of the best incentives for someone to follow you is when following = chance to get free stuff. So throw a Giveaway! Pick some merch and offer it up.
Usually, creators ask users to complete one or some of these actions in order to enter:
Follow your account (and accounts of collaborators, if any)
Like the contest post
Tag one of more friends
Leave a comment
Click out to an entry form on your brand’s website (this also helps you build an email list)
The great thing about tags is they bring you a potential new follower from a trusted recommendation. Engagements are favorable to the algorithm on Instagram, meaning you get more reach with your post.
9. Use Instagram Live
You can broadcast live video to your followers with Instagram Live. Besides being live, the main difference between Reels/Stories and Live is it has interactive features that allow you to engage directly with fans, monetize your content with Instagram badges, and save previous Live feeds to use in a collection.
Here are a few tips for using Instagram Live to get exposure to new groups of followers:
Host influencer account takeovers (this gets you exposure to a ton of new potential followers)
Host an interactive Q & A or AMA (Ask Me Anything)
Tease an update or product launch, or give live viewers exclusive access
Increase reach by going live in a “room” with up to three other accounts (triple the potential followers!)
Go behind the scenes to humanize your brand
Answer questions in real time while running a how-to or product tutorial
Interview other compatible creators to promote in advance across both accounts
10. Try Instagram Ads
Look, we know not everyone has a budget. We’ve given you 9 solid tactics to help gain more followers on Instagram. But if you do have a budget, paid promotion is a great way to gain followers quickly.
Instagram Ads are available through a self-serve platform that allows you to set your own budgets and goals. The ads can help you reach users in your preferred locations or with matching interests (your target audience). A paid promotion on your Instagram is a powerful sales channel.
Honorable Mention: Ask For Followers
There’s no shame in straight-up asking for the follow. Have you seen every other successful creator and influencer asking people to “smash” that like or “hit” that subscribe button? We all do it. If you ask, they may not do it or they might. But if you don’t ask, they most likely won’t.
You can ask for followers in captions or just asking yourself in your video content. Maybe let the audience know what’s in it for them with an incentive. Or tell them why they should follow you, what’s coming up, tease future giveaways and product launches.
To wrap up
The goal of gaining followers is to get IGs algorithm to give you more preferential treatment. Getting on the IG Explore page is the social media equivalent of striking gold, because this is where you can expand your reach and get discovered by users. If you don’t know where it is, tap the spyglass icon. On this page you can search but also go down the rabbit hole of public content.
How to get on the Explore page? Start following the tactics above! Post relevant content (as often as possible), use those hashtags and start building your niche.
Note: you want to keep tabs on all the features available on Instagram as they will update and/or evolve from time to time.
We made it to the end! Now you have the tools to help you grow your followers. Happy 2024 and Happy Selling!
