In today’s world, the average person spends just under 3 hours on social media daily. Though social media allows us to find new creators and content, finding “colleagues” or fellow content creator friends can be a little tricky. However, building your friendships with other creators can be transformative for your personal and professional growth. Whether you’re just starting your journey or are an established influencer, finding a supportive network helps you thrive. The key is to build relationships online and foster genuine connections that can extend into the offline world. For aspiring and seasoned creators alike, here’s a comprehensive guide to locating your creative community and forming authentic friendships.

The Importance of Building Authentic Friendships with Creators

Collaboration, shared experiences, and mutual support are invaluable in the creator community. Being an influencer and content creator can be an isolating job, as you stay focused in your own silo of ideas and creative endeavors. Networking with like-minded individuals can expand your source of inspiration. It can also provide accountability when you’re in a slump, and open up opportunities for growth and partnerships. It’s not just about followers and likes; it’s about genuine connections that make your profession so much more meaningful (and enjoyable!).

Top Platforms to Build Relationships Online

Let’s start with the most obvious ways to find content creator friends – on the platforms you create content on!

Instagram

Instagram remains a go-to platform for connecting with fellow creators. Generally, you’ll find people in your niche by typing in relevant keywords and phrases into the search bar. Engaging with their posts through meaningful comments and DMs can spark new friendships. You can also try hosting or joining Instagram Lives for real-time interactions.

Threads 

Threads, Instagram’s text-based companion, is a space where creators share candid thoughts and tips. Due to its more conversational nature, it’s a great place to start chatting and building connections. I’d even argue that it might be a better networking platform than Instagram. Joining discussions on trending topics in your industry can help you meet peers organically. For example, posting about your challenges and asking for advice can attract creators who share similar experiences.

Facebook Creator Groups

Facebook Groups is a great place to find vibrant, active, and thriving online creator communities. Generally, lots of creators start these groups to help one another out on their journey. It’s a place where you can discuss challenges, share tips, and even collaborate on projects. Type in keywords related to your industry to find niche-specific groups.

It’s such a great opportunity for creators to openly share their experiences. That’s why when I created both The Influencer Mastercourse and The UGC Mastercourse, it was a non-negotiable for me to create a private Facebook Community that supports every single student on their path to becoming a creator. Our Facebook groups are lively with conversations, with more experienced students sharing their advice and chiming in with tips to help new creators succeed.

TikTok

Search for creators in your niche using keywords or explore hashtags. Duetting or stitching their videos could be a way to initiate a relationship based on shared interests. 

Creator Podcasts or Virtual Events

Participating in a podcast discussion with other creators, as well as virtual events to help creators grow is a great way to meet new creator friends. Many aspiring creators participate in a virtual challenge, webinar, or mini-course that is either often free or available for a low price. These are great entry points to find fellow creators who are more likely to be at the same points of their journey as you are!

Expanding Connections Offline

While networking for content creators often starts online, moving these relationships offline solidifies them. Once you’ve focused some time on building relationships online, try these actionable tips to help take them offline and in person:

Attend Creator Events

Conferences such as VidCon or smaller workshops are excellent for meeting creators IRL. Networking face-to-face builds trust and allows for deeper conversations.

Organize or Attend Local Meetups

Use platforms like Meetup.com to find or host events tailored to creators in your area. Coffee shop meetups or co-working sessions are casual ways to connect.

Participate in Press Trips and Brand events

Press trips organized by brands are opportunities not just for partnerships and exposure, but they’re also great for bonding with other influencers. The same goes for events hosted by brands in your city or region, often to celebrate the launch of a new product or introduce creators to their brand. 

Red Flags to Avoid When Networking

Not every connection will be beneficial. Watch out for overly transactional relationships where creators are only interested in gaining followers or exposure. Ensure your interactions are rooted in mutual respect and genuine interest.

The best way to do so is to engage in conversations consistently. Whether you’re connecting via DMs or in a Facebook group, getting familiar with a fellow creator prior to collaborating on work-related content is a great way to focus on fostering a meaningful relationship rather than a transactional one.

Building Long-Lasting Relationships

Online communities like Facebook groups and creator-led platforms offer safe spaces for sharing tips, troubleshooting challenges, and celebrating wins. That’s why it’s so important to stay consistent in nurturing these relationships. Regularly engage with your community, celebrate their successes, and be willing to help without expecting anything in return. Genuine interest goes a long way in creating lasting bonds.

Wrapping Up

Finding and connecting with fellow creators is an ongoing process that involves intentionality and effort. By leveraging platforms like Instagram, Threads, and Facebook, and participating in events offline, you can establish a network that not only supports you professionally but also enriches your personal life. Start small, stay authentic, and watch as your creative world expands through meaningful relationships.