How to turn followers into fans on Soundcloud
Everyone knows a like doesn’t mean a fan. But how can you turn all these followers in fans? What does it take to increase your conversion rate on socials? What strategies can you implement to convert more followers into real fans? A number of tools such as download gates, mailing lists and follow-for-follow strategies are all available for artists to use, however, these aren’t always 100% reliable. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most effective methods in attracting real fans.
Interact with fans
Keeping active in between song releases is a vital first step in earning real followers. You might see a 3-month gap between your first and most recent release, so filling the void is imperative. Doing so, shows that you’re more than just a music producer – you’re a person too. Fans like to put names to faces. While responding to tweets, comments and private messages goes a long way, some DJ’s like to go a step further with fan interaction.
Deadmau5, a self-confessed gamer, often spends time on Twitch, playing games like Rocket League with his fans. This takes fan interaction to a whole new level, as people are able to watch and offer their thoughts, live on the spot, while spending time with their favorite artist off-camera. This is where fans can see DJ’s for who they really are, giving fans the opportunity to meet them face-to-face (or screen-to-screen in this instance).
Don’t buy followers and likes
Many private companies or vendors offer boosts to SoundCloud users’ play and follower count for a certain fee. However, plays are not targeted in most cases – meaning, you can’t determine who listens to your music, or where their location is. Plus, more often than not, the “follower” accounts that are purchased are merely bots, thus creating an influx of ghost followers.
For example, if you purchase 5,000 followers, you may average 150 plays per track, meaning, only a portion of your followers are real. This makes it evident that a user has purchased followers and doesn’t look good in the eyes of a record label. In addition to this, many vendors have questionable reputations and can lead to your account receiving a suspension or ban. Despite all this, some vendors such as Devumi and DD Plays reportedly offer “legitimate services”. While boosting numbers can look good, keep in mind that they’re artificial and offer no real growth. However, should you choose to give your SoundCloud account a small buffer, be sure to extensively research your chosen vendor’s history and reputation before making a purchase. Remember, you’re as real as your following. Your end result is a reflection of your effort.
Give them a reason to follow you
If a SoundCloud user listens to a song of yours and enjoys it, chances are, they’ll scroll through your profile. If they like more of your tracks, they’ll follow you. However, it’ll take more than just good music to keep your new-found fans within your grasp. Free giveaways are common practices. Bootlegs, sample packs and mashups are all great ways to attract the attention of other DJs, but what about your non-DJ followers? Not to worry, there’s something for everyone.
An excellent example of giving fans great incentive is former Swedish House Mafia member Steve Angello. In celebration of the upcoming release of his album, ‘Human’, Steve announced a competition, giving fans the chance to win an All Access Pass, granting access to all of his future solo shows. To enter, fans must simply pre-save his upcoming album to their Spotify account. This is an effective way of attracting fans and boosting numbers while giving up very little in return.
However, not all producers play in front of sold-out festival crowds. Instead, as a smaller DJ, offer free drink cards or cheaper entry for a select number of followers to your next club or bar gig. This won’t come at a great cost for the venue, as most already offer this anyway. Not only are you appealing to your followers, you’re showing initiative by bringing customers through the door, putting yourself in the venue owner’s good books.