Whether you start creating with an intention to monetize or plan revenue streams after achieving a content market fit, Patreon is a platform worth considering. No wonder it's home to diverse artists, creators and content producers!
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— Patreon (@Patreon) March 27, 2023
Patreon has become a popular choice for creators to connect with their fans, share exclusive content, and receive financial backing for their work. In this comprehensive guide, we'll tell you all about setting up a Patreon account and maximizing its potential to boost your creative career.
Understanding Patreon and its benefits
Founded by Jack Conte and Sam Yan, Patreon is a membership-based platform that allows fans to support creators through recurring payments called "pledges." As a creator, you'll offer various membership tiers — each with unique benefits and exclusive content. This not only provides a stable income stream, but also fosters a sense of community among your supporters.
According to Think Impact, Patreon is home to over 200,000 creatives on Patreon, with 195,000 of them having at least one patron. The same report states COVID-19 pandemic witnessed patrons increase the amounts they were giving to their favorite creators to support them during this challenging period. March 2020 saw a 60% jump in the average income raised by creators.
Identifying your goals and target audience
Before diving into the setup process, defining your goals and target audience has to be your number one priority. Ask yourself what kind of content you'll offer and who your ideal supporters are. Tailoring your membership tiers and rewards to match their interests will encourage more people to join and stay engaged.
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Planning your membership tiers and rewards
Patreon success largely depends on crafting attractive membership tiers. Consider offering a range of options, such as, a basic tier for casual supporters, a mid-tier with exclusive content, and a premium tier with personalized rewards like Q&A or AMA sessions or merchandise. Do ensure the rewards achievable and valuable to incentivize fans to pledge more. For instance, if you're a travel blogger, inviting 5 of your premium-tier supporters on an experiential trip with you might be quite enticing.
Creating a compelling Patreon profile
Your Patreon page is your storefront, so make it visually appealing and informative. Use great images, engaging videos, and a clear, concise description of what your content offers. Highlight the benefits of each membership tier and showcase samples of exclusive content to entice potential supporters.
Check out Amanda Palmer's profile on Patreon. 👇
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Setting realistic funding goals
Be realistic about your funding goals right from the start. While it's exciting to dream big, setting attainable milestones will help maintain your momentum and motivate new and existing patrons to support your journey.
Promoting your Patreon page
To attract patrons, promote your Patreon page across your social media platforms, website, and other channels — wherever your target audience hang out. Regularly remind your audience about the exclusive benefits they'll receive by becoming a patron. Engage with your community and respond to comments and messages promptly.
How reimagining their brand helped this duo’s business
Delivering high-quality content
This goes without saying — deliver top-notch content to your patrons. Whether it's exclusive behind-the-scenes updates, early access to your creations, or special rewards, ensure that your supporters feel valued and appreciated for their contributions.
Plus, never forget to foster a community among your patrons by engaging with them regularly! Host live Q&A sessions, create polls for content decisions, and respond to comments and messages. The more involved your patrons feel, the more likely they are to remain loyal supporters.
Offering exclusive perks
Apart from regular content, surprise your patrons with exclusive perks like limited edition merchandise, personalized thank-you notes, or even virtual hangouts. Remember, people will love you for how you make them feel.
Offering exclusive perks
Apart from regular content, surprise your patrons with exclusive perks like limited edition merchandise, personalized thank-you notes, or even virtual hangouts. Remember, people will love you for how you make them feel.
Setting up a Patreon account can be a game-changer for creators, providing a sustainable income stream and a loyal community of supporters. Have you tried Patreon yet? What has your experience been like?
