Algorithms now push content based on its quality and relevance to user interests, not the creator's follower count. A new account can go viral and outperform established ones, creating a true meritocracy.

Modern social platforms prioritize connecting creative content with users based on their interests, not their follows. This means a piece of content can find its target audience organically, regardless of an account's pre-existing follower base, diminishing the value of a large following.

Platform algorithms now prioritize showing users content relevant to their interests, regardless of who they follow. This means a brand's follower count is less important than the relevance of each individual piece of content. Any creator can achieve massive reach on a single post, making it a true meritocracy.

The number of creators and posts (supply) is at an all-time high, while user time on social media (demand) has plateaued or declined since 2020. This economic imbalance naturally leads to fewer views per post for everyone, a phenomenon often misinterpreted as an algorithmic penalty or shadowban.

The algorithmic shift from social graphs (followers) to interest graphs means a single high-quality post from a new account can outperform one from a massive account. Creative merit, not existing audience size, is the primary driver of distribution on modern platforms.

The value of a large, pre-existing audience is decreasing. Powerful platform algorithms are becoming so effective at identifying and distributing high-quality content that a new creator with great material can get significant reach without an established following. This levels the playing field and reduces the incumbent advantage.

Due to the "TikTokification" of platforms, algorithms now favor a single piece of content's potential to engage anyone, regardless of who created it. This means sticking to a strict niche is no longer required for high views and reach, though it remains important for gaining followers.

Platforms like TikTok and Instagram no longer primarily show content from accounts you follow. Their algorithms serve content based on demonstrated interests. This means content quality and relevance now trump follower count, leveling the playing field for new creators.

The era of building a follower list like an email list is over. Platforms now use an "interest graph," meaning a post from an account with few followers can go viral if the content is compelling. This shift democratizes reach and prioritizes content quality above all else.