The Ultimate Guide to Content Creation
I recently had the pleasure of being interviewed by the Micro-Influencers Club, who wanted me to be honest, personal and candid about my life as a content creator and blogger, and what the experience has been like for me. Here’s to living this life as passionately and keenly as I do now!
- How did you start your journey of being a content creator?
Tanya Fontes: From being an MBA graduate to what I’m today has been nothing short of an odyssey, one that has taught me so much and perhaps changed my worldview. I think it all started from the single fact that I’ve always had an unrelenting love for stories, they have the power to make and break lives and this realisation is what made my life. I felt this need to add meaning to people’s lives and what better way to do so than by sharing stories that become a flaming insignia of all that’s good and bright and worth living for amidst this world of darkness and negativity?
Sharing these stories, my experiences and everything I’ve seen and learnt is my way of fulfilling a deep dream, a dream to lighten as many lives as I can. This journey has been as much of a learning experience as formal schooling has been. And I can’t wait to see what more it can bring to my life.
- Often people tend to think that being a content creator is just a side hustle and do both require much effort? Whereas, it is actually just the opposite. How do you react when you are being asked such questions?
Tanya Fontes: The truth. I think the truth is the best way to answer these questions.
Being a blogger, creating articles that resonate with people, and content that ‘clicks’ is not an easy job. So much thought and effort go into it.
In my line of work, you have to be the Jack of all trades from writing to marketing and be a significant master of all, if not an absolute maestro. Sometimes you don the hat of a critique and every single day you have to be the communications expert. Not to mention that you have to have a significant understanding of software from simple editing to graphics and how everything works. And, of course, at the end of the day, an entrepreneur is what you are and that’s not easy either. None of this is. Maybe that’s what’s exciting about the job too.
- How do you keep yourself updated with the latest trends on social media?
Tanya Fontes: It’s the age of digital media and we live in a hyperconnected world and the best way to stay abreast of all recent developments and trends would be right in the middle of it all. I follow a number of hashtags and accounts and have even set Google alerts for some of them so that I don’t miss anything new or significant.
- What kind of paid partnerships do you think actually work for you and your audience?
Tanya Fontes: Paid partnerships can be a double-edged sword and should be handled with much thought and care. I try my best to make sure that they are presented in a way that adds to the user experience and not disrupts it. Nobody likes seeing an annoying and unconnected advertisement in the middle of content they came to experience, which is exactly what traditional advertisements used to do.
I think the trick is to find sponsored content that resonates with me and my previous content so that it blends seamlessly with the rest adding credibility and trust.
- Are you willing to change your content creating style with time? If a bigger platform comes in the way, would you take it or stick to Instagram?
Tanya Fontes: Survival is about changing and adapting.
So yes, I’m ready for whatever the future brings with it as long as it lets me be my own boss and have fun while also doing what I want to do. To tell stories. To touch lives in a way only a good story can.
The same goes for the platform too, if something better comes along why would I not want to try it?
- What are some of the qualities that you found out about yourself while creating content?
Tanya Fontes: Lessons learned, not qualities found.
And the biggest one being that fear only exists in our mind. And if we set our minds to it, anything is achievable through consistent work. It’s not easy, there’ll be growth and learning that never ends but eventually, you’ll reach there and then move forward. Again.
- How do you come up with your content? What is your style?
Tanya Fontes: Sometimes the final product is crystal clear and at times it’s nothing more than a glimmer of sunlight streaming through a dark tunnel, and you just follow it till the end to find something worth the risk.
As for style, I’d like to believe personal style is as fluid and living as the person it belongs to, ever-changing and growing as we move forward, make mistakes, stumble and learn. This fluidity is essential. Change is the only constant and adapting but is essential for survival. And while every content creator and their style is sui generis, it’s imperative that we maintain a level of consistency so that we don’t publish something that does not position us in the right way.
- While creating your content, do you keep in mind your audiences’ views and reactions?
Tanya Fontes: The content that I put out is meant to be consumed by an audience, so why would I not want to present it in a way they’ll not only understand but also appreciate? Not to mention that knowing them will let me curate posts that will engage them while being informative.
So yes, understanding who my audience is, their general background and needs is something I always try to do.
- How do you typically spend your time on Instagram?
Tanya Fontes: In multiple ways actually, and I try to make it as productive as it can be by working through one task at a time.
There’s content creation and curation, obviously. But that’s only half the work. I also have to put aside some time for audience engagement and outreach ~ to know what my key audience thinks and to connect better with them. Without that my work will never be complete.
And, of course, all this is consciously planned and built into my day so that it’s actually effective and holds value.
- What is your perfect “Me-Time”? How do you spend your Off Days?
Tanya Fontes: Honestly, the options are several and sometimes seem endless and I’m glad.
But usually? Devouring a whole book in a single day or taking a self-care day and hitting the spa sounds equally good. Or maybe even set myself a budget and go shopping. Ha!
- Would you share some wisdom with the ones who are starting out recently or want to make it big as an influencer?
Tanya Fontes: Any destination that you see is a peaceful hiatus ~ the journey is what’s really beautiful. Enjoy it. Trust and focus on the process and be patient while you are at it.
- How do you keep the loyalty of your followers intact?
Tanya Fontes: I guess it all comes down to four things: Quality, Sincerity, Personality and Consistency.
Content quantity can do only so much, in the end, my readers come back because they saw something good and worth their time and attention. And it’s important that you believe and mean what you say because facades and masks tear down pretty fast. I guess this entails that the content is also unique and represents the creator and their personality. There are a limited number of topics and if everyone handled it the same way, it’d get pretty boring pretty fast, wouldn’t it? It’s the individual quirks and styles of presentation that’s unique to each creator that keeps it interesting.
- What has been your most satisfying moment in life thus far? A moment that always remains as a quick “pick me up” moment ever since.
Tanya Fontes: Guess I’m still a novice at life to truly answer this. Maybe people {who follow me on social media, and read my blog} coming up to me and telling me how I inspire them comes close.
- Who is your biggest inspiration and what inspires you the most, every day?
Tanya Fontes: Inspiration is everywhere and crosses your path every now and then. But the one person who’ll never cease to do so is my mother. Her smile even as she worked hard and her neverending kindness to virtually everyone will always be a source of strength to me, a bright and burning flame even in the darkest of nights.
- What would you be doing today, if not an Instagram Content Creator?…and a successful blogger.
Tanya Fontes: I have no answer to what, if not this. Maybe because I’m already here and love it. But stories are my lifeblood and no matter what the situation is, I guess I’ll always have one to tell.
Perhaps I will have more than a story.
I hope you have enjoyed reading these content creator notes as much as I did writing them.
Love the colours and the intricate necklace detailing, Tanya. Lighting up my day as always! ❤️
On that note, every influencer has a story, and some stories are so touching that it makes the bond they share with their followers special altogether.
Stay safe during this time. I look forward to more beautiful and informative posts from you.
I’m so glad you like my post! Thank you truly for always being my cheerleader, Arshena.
Very beautifully colour coordinated ❤️ and I love the way you have accessorised.
I’d like you to know that I’m in love with how you pen about people and emotions and blogging… So glad to have found you here! Have a happy and relaxing week!
Thank you, dear Apoorva. Such a sweet thing to say!
You carry these necklaces with so much grace! Beautiful as always. ❤️
Additionally, such a warm post – your personal touch with your wonderful responses makes all the difference. Salute to your talent, and cheers to the feature!
Thank you very much, Ishita! I’m touched by your kind thoughts.
Wow, this splash of colours on you!! You look pretty & graceful – but that’s a given always! ❤️❤️❤️ Also, the emotion attached to this interview is so wonderful that it has elated the beauty of your share!
Many thanks, Shruti! Loving your appreciation.
This is such a vibrant photoshoot! ❤️ The blouses are elevating the necklaces to another level! ❤️
On another note: This virtual world of IG/Blogging has such amazing folks, including you, Tanya. It’s wonderful to constantly learn interesting things from your posts. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much for giving me the inspiration to give it a whirl again, Ritu!
Aah, you lit up my screen with this glorious post and your smile! You look beautiful and elegant, as always. And, you carry the jewellery so well.
p.s. Congratulations on the feature, rockstar!!
I truly treasure your love, Shilpa!
Radiant and ethereal. ❤️ You look beautiful in this edit… your photo and jewellery pairing just keep touching new heights!
On a side note: I love how encouraging you are! Lots to learn from your experiences & posts… Really enjoyed reading this one.
Thank you very much, Ravinder. Your words encourage me a lot!
Absolutely stunning! What’s not to love in this post ❤️ beautiful necklaces, beautiful styling, beautifully informative interview, and beautiful you! Baskets of good wishes for your continued success!
This is so, so kind, Debjani! Thank you for your affectionate thoughts.
Vibrant colours! You look ravishing in these exquisite necklaces, Tanya! ❤️
As always, this was an informative post. Awaiting more of your interesting shares with beautiful pictures… And, congratulations on the feature!
Thank you, Bhavani. Love your affectionate thoughts!
Beauty combined with elegance. Fabulous necklaces on a beautiful lady… you certainly do full justice to its beauty! My two bits. ❤️
In other news, we (your followers/readers) are truly blessed to have you in our lives… I do wish all content creators thought like you, imagining how to change the world for the better… Waise, I am equally blessed to know you through IG.
Thank you for your generous compliment, Madhurima.
How beautiful you look! This is indeed a vibrant photo share, so perfect for an effervescent person like you! ❤️
And, this share is really a gem – with in-depth and informative responses! Shows us that your outer beauty is totally at par with your inner beauty!
I’m overwhelmed, dear Soumya, by your heartfelt words for me!
Loved the entire write up! This is not intended to be flattery, but my honest submission based on our interactions and your shares… And, you look absolutely gorgeous ~ doing full justice to those necklaces!
Deeply value your warm and heartfelt appreciation, Kankana.
Your vibe truly attracts your tribe … God bless the bond between your followers and you. ❤️ Looking resplendent, by the way! Love the way you have paired the necklaces with those gorgeous blouses…
Thank you, Antara. I’m so glad to hear this!
What a thoughtful post! Such beautiful advice that reflects your beautiful soul – truly a beauty inside and out. ❤️ Beautiful necklaces and gorgeous you!
You are just the best, Abhishek! Thank you.
This was such a good read, as always. You look beautiful in those necklaces with the wonderful blouse pairing. Inspired by you… ❤️❤️❤️
Thanks so much, Reshmi! Hope your week is going well.
There couldn’t have been a better example of a woman supporting a woman… You are an epitome of utmost grace and humility, Tanya – we look up to you! ❤️
p.s. You look so beautiful. And, such pretty necklaces.
Thank you for reading my blog, Jyoti. And thank you for sharing such kind thoughts about my work.
I have been saving a lot of your posts, so I can revisit them and continue to be mindful of my interactions with others. Also, looking beautiful in this version of yourself – aap showstopper hain! ❤️❤️❤️
Aw ~ you’ve made my day, Minky! Thanks so much.
Looking lovely in these blouses, Tanya; the necklace pairings make them even more beautiful!
And, love your story and you! ❤️ Everyone should be free to pursue their goals, make their own decisions, and do what makes them happy. Thank you for this post!
Thank you so much for the kind words and for dropping by. It means so much to me, Praneetha!
The epitome of Grace. ❤️
It’s really thoughtful of you to put up this beautiful post along with these beautiful pictures! It carries such an important message for content creators… Always admire you for the person you are, Tanya.
It’s comments like yours that put a hop in my step and keep me going, Tasneem!
Absolutely stunning! ❤️ You make the jewellery look even prettier with your personality. And, this is such a heart-warming post, thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Thanks so much, Deepika. Means a lot that you like it!
Just one word – STUNNING! Your write-ups are as beautiful and inspiring as your personality. Every response is nurtured with love and care… ✨✨✨
Many thanks, Madhvi. You’ve made me so happy!
You look absolutely beautiful! The way you pose, the way you style your wardrobe… I just love the way you are. ❤️❤️❤️ Such a beautifully written post, too.
Thank you for your kind comment, Mohammed!
Love your share! ❤️ Just so you know, you make the simplest ensemble look spectacular! Love how you have put together everything… Love your jewellery, and elegance comes so naturally to you. Also, congratulations on the media feature!
Thank you for your sweet words, Meenakshi.
You are beautiful inside out, Tanya, and it shows in your beautifully worded responses. ❤️ Also, you look amazing… with your smile enhancing the beauty of the necklaces even more! Congratulations on the media coverage.
Thank you, Arkita ! You’re always kind and affectionate.
Another beautiful share by beautiful you. Thanks for the insight… Of course, you are the epitome of grace. ❤️ [I love your hairstyle and the fact that your hair always looks perfectly set.]
p.s I love reading your posts always and always!
Thank you very much, Deepa. So kind of you!
Oh wow! These necklaces look fabulous, and I love how you paired them with those blouses… just amazing! ❤️
By the way, I follow you with pride, gratitude & delight! ❤️
So glad to hear this little corner of my life is worth appreciating, Himakshi.
You are elegance personified! ❤️ With such a stunning combination of jewellery and blouse, along with an interesting write up about your content creator journey, you take my breath away, Tanya!
Thank you very much for your affectionate and kind thoughts, Soumi.
A feast for our eyes! ❤️ Just love your energy and vibes, always inspiring!
I am full of appreciation for wonderful content creators, such as yourself… ❤️ I always love reading your posts; your talent knows no bounds!
That’s kind of you, Parul. Thank you so much!
Stunning necklaces and you have captured the mood so perfectly with your endearing smile. 🙂
On a side note: There is so much detail and information surrounding content creation that it leaves me sweetly surprised each time I learn something new!
Means the world coming from you. Sharmistha. Thank you so very much!
Always elegant. ❤️ What a display of grandeur these necklaces are, and equally informative is your write up. This again shows your multi-talented and multi-faceted personality, gorgeous Tanya.
So happy to receive wonderful compliments from you, Manjiri.
Very interesting post, like always. The humility with which you write can be felt throughout, and I’m glad that your talent is getting noticed more each day… ✨✨✨ Well, both you and your jewellery look absolutely beautiful! Congratulations on the feature!
Thank you for your wonderful thoughts and wishes, Nasrin.
Tanya, this is absolute wow, wow, wow!! I’m going short of words to compliment you!
You photograph like a dream, and your words are effortlessly beautiful. ❤️ I love this post and you have done complete justice to it with your thoughtful responses. Kudos.
Aw ~ thank you for your deep appreciation, Anand! It’s valuable to me.