How to Grow Your Flipboard Presence Using the Decentralized Web
Let’s face it: I am an early adopter. I am always up for a revolution, and in this case, about two years ago, I embraced the decentralized web.
I have transitioned to the social web. I want to feel safe, free from corporate control, and to connect with like-minded friends.
Traditional social media platforms control algorithms and collect my data, while the decentralized web prioritizes my autonomy. Its open-source governance allows me to build and manage my community freely.
Decentralized platforms encourage organic discussions, meaningful connections, and a more balanced online ecosystem. I’m drawn to this new space. I want to escape unnatural engagement-based algorithms that favor ads and viral content (I’m over it!). I seek a more authentic and inclusive digital space.
New platforms, new rules. As I became part of this movement, I had to learn to respect my community of followers. I was forced to think outside the box to “promote” my content.
In today’s saturated world of communication, respecting your followers is a big thing. Trust is practically obsolete. Robot accounts are taking over.
So…
How can you be considerate of your new followers in this budding environment?
To market (I’d say share) your Flipboard magazines on the decentralized web involves understanding its unique communities. Here are some strategies to consider:
- Build Trust — One of the most important things to understand is that you can’t get it back once you lose trust. Establish credibility from the start.
- Be Useful — Share curated content that adds value. i.e., If you run a travel magazine, provide itineraries, tips, or cultural insights.
- Be Informative — Information is always appreciated. Post relevant updates, facts, or insights related to your niche.
- Offer Help — Answer questions and engage in meaningful discussions. Jump into conversations where users ask for help. It’s not uncommon for me to ask for a recipe. If I do, please share your magazines.
- Be Mindful — Respect the norms of each decentralized platform. Avoid spamming. Once you get a Federated Flipboard account, each magazine you ever made is a Mastodon account. Your content from each magazine will be posted to the social web like an RSS feed. Be mindful of adding the same article to twenty magazines all at once. This can upset a user following your federated Flipboard or five of your magazines.
- Give Back to the Community — Boost others’ content, like it, and comment with a friendly note. Support creators.
- Tell Stories — Rethink your posts and your Flipboard magazines. Share narrative-driven content to engage with your new audiences emotionally.
- Know Your Audience — Find topics that users are likely to follow. Research what interests them and tailor your magazines accordingly.
- Don’t Only Talk About Yourself — Balance self-promotion with sharing valuable external content. It’s always about what your followers need and want.
The Future of Connection on the Decentralized Web
Succeeding in the decentralized web requires a huge shift in mindset. Gaming an algorithm or competing for ad-driven engagement is finally over! Authenticity, relationships, and genuine participation are now.
Focus on your community first, establish trust, and build a new audience. You will create a meaningful presence without resorting to traditional marketing tactics.
I encourage you to join. As this digital landscape evolves, adapting and embracing its principles will help shape a more open, inclusive, and user-driven internet that will benefit you.
Happy Flipping and Surfing!
- Please follow my Flipboard profile. The surf profile is coming soon!
- Join our Facebook user community for #Fliptips and tricks.
- Follow me on Mastodon, Bluesky, or Threads.
- To learn to use Flipboard, follow my 40-second Flipboard tutorials on YouTube.
Flipboard is a powerful and versatile tool. Ask me about consulting services to learn how to use your profile for countless benefits. I’m here to help.
Full disclosure: I do not work for Flipboard.
