Crafting and Sustaining an Engaging Social Media Series
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Chapter 1: The Inspiration Behind the Project
In a heartfelt approach to content creation, Borderless Belik kicks off his daily messages to his unborn child with, "Hi, darling. It's me, Dad." For the past seven years, Belik has immersed himself in the world of content creation, sharing his adventures globally. Along the way, he’s not only set two Guinness World Records but has also collaborated with renowned creator Nas Daily to establish an academy for budding creators.
Despite his close association with Nas, who boasts millions of followers across platforms, Belik regards "It's Me, Dad" as his most significant endeavor. This project serves as both a captivating diary and a love letter to his child, illustrating a unique application of creative skills.
Belik’s motivation stemmed from a poignant moment in the Netflix show "Shtisel," where a mother records messages for her child, fearing for her life during childbirth. This inspired Belik to start his own project during Week 6 of his partner's pregnancy, vowing to produce daily videos until the baby's arrival. Unlike his previous ventures, this initiative prioritized education, inspiration, and community over mere views or monetization.
Section 1.1: The Commitment to Creation
During the Christmas break, I witnessed Belik's dedication to his content. Each video, ranging from 30 to 60 seconds, demands several hours of work. Many viewers underestimate the time required to produce content, often mistaking a viral TikTok or Instagram reel for a quick effort.
In truth, creating a polished 30-second video can take up to six hours, often without any financial reward. Belik's workflow includes:
- Scripting: 30–60 minutes
- Shooting: 5–10 minutes
- Editing: 2–3 hours
- Posting: 30 minutes
At around 12 weeks, a fetus is similar in size to a lime, weighing about half an ounce. Belik began conversing with his "lime" daily, capturing moments on his iPhone and reflecting on daily lessons to share with his child. He developed a consistent format, starting and ending each video with specific phrases to establish a recognizable framework.
Subsection 1.1.1: Key Strategies for Content Creation
Belik emphasizes the importance of a supportive community among creators. His collaboration with Nas Daily led to his role as Head of Trainers at Nas Academy, which aims to empower creators through education and technology.
- Establish Processes: Belik insists on creating templates to streamline production, saving him valuable time. He employs a Recording Frame template in Final Cut Pro to enhance branding and maintain consistency.
- Editing Techniques: Over time, Belik refined his editing approach, shifting from a weekly batch process to daily editing. His precise method includes combining A-roll and B-roll footage and adding music and subtitles.
- Strategic Posting: Timing is crucial for engagement. Belik posts at 8 AM US Mountain Time, optimizing visibility for his audience.
Chapter 2: Platform Selection and Analysis
In the video, "How to create a social media strategy for ANY brand," Belik discusses the essentials of crafting a robust social media presence.
Belik identifies platforms where his content thrives, primarily focusing on Instagram for its supportive community. While TikTok offers viral potential, he feels his content is more suited to Instagram reels due to its emotional depth.
- Data Analysis: Belik tracks his performance meticulously, logging data on video titles, categories, views, and more. This analysis informs his strategy, helping him understand what resonates with his audience.
- Insider Tips for Aspiring Creators: Belik shares valuable insights, such as utilizing trending sounds at lower volumes and ensuring subtitles for viewers watching on mute. He also emphasizes the significance of eye-catching thumbnails and impactful closing statements to encourage viewer interaction.
In the second video, "How to Create a Social Media Strategy for 2024 Step by Step," Belik provides practical steps for creators to enhance their social media impact.
The Future of "It's Me, Dad"
Although the commitment is substantial, Belik intends to continue the series post-birth. The ultimate goal is to conclude the series when his child can say, "It's me (and their name)." Beyond this, he envisions creating a platform for fathers to share their experiences, fostering open discussions and collaboration among parents.
Belik's journey illustrates how a passion project can evolve into broader opportunities, paving the way for potential future endeavors, such as a book or film. For those interested in following his story, joining his mailing list offers a glimpse into his ongoing journey and insights.