Start with Empathy, Not Algorithms
Gloria Ataga, CPC
This section breaks down how to write content that makes your audience feel understood.
There was a time I thought growing online was all about figuring out the algorithm.
“Post at this time.”
“Use these 5 trending audios.”
“Do this 3-second hook to go viral.”
And while those tips can help you get seen, they don’t always help you get heard.
And that’s the difference.
If you want to create content that truly connects with your audience, the best place to start isn’t trends or tactics.
👉🏽 It’s empathy.
What Does “Starting with Empathy” Even Mean?
It means thinking about your audience first, before thinking about the algorithm.
It’s asking:
“What’s going on in their world?”
“What are they worried about today?”
“How can my content make their life feel a little easier, lighter, or clearer?”
Because people are more likely to stick around when they feel understood, not just entertained.
Why Trends Alone Aren’t Enough
To be honest, we’ve all tried following trends, hoping to get more eyes on our content.
But have you ever created something that checked all the boxes, and still… crickets?
Yeah. Same here.
That’s because trends might help you get attention,
but empathy is what helps you build trust.
When your audience sees you get them, they’re more likely to:
Stay
Engage
Come back
And eventually... buy from you
How to Figure Out What Your Audience Actually Cares About
You don’t need to be a mind reader. Just get curious.
Here are a few ways to tap into what they’re really thinking:
1. Listen to the questions they’re already asking
Check your comments, inbox, and DMs.
What are your target audience confused about or constantly asking you?
2. Hang out where they hang out
Go to forums, Facebook groups, Twitter/X threads, or Reddit.
Look at how they talk about their challenges, in their own words.
3. Use tools like Google, Quora, and AnswerThePublic
Type in a keyword and see what questions pop up.
These are real things real people want answers to.
4. Just ask them
Post a poll. Ask a simple question. Send out a short form.
People love to share when they feel invited into the conversation.
5. Reflect on your own journey
If you’ve walked the road your audience is just starting, you already know their struggles, you just need to remember what it felt like.
Real Connection Starts with Real Content
Once you’ve taken time to listen, gather questions, and really understand what your audience is going through, it’s time to respond.
Start creating content that speaks directly to those questions.
Not from a place of “I know it all,” but from a place of “I get it — I’ve been there too.”
Because when your content sounds like:
“Hey, I know this can be tough. Here’s something that helped me...”
instead of:
“Look at how amazing I am,”
People lean in.
They feel seen.
They trust you more.
And they’re more likely to keep coming back.
And don’t forget the invitation:
Always add a clear call to action like:
“If this resonates or you need more help navigating this, feel free to send me a message. I’m happy to walk through it with you.”
That’s how you stop being just another page they scroll past, and start being someone they trust.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Don’t get me wrong, learning how platforms work is smart.
But if you want content that connects, converts, and keeps people coming back…
Start by caring more about the people you're talking to than the numbers you're chasing.
That’s what makes people pause their scroll and say:
“Wow… this was for me.”
Want more real, relatable tips on content, visibility, and building your brand with heart?
Subscribe to Glow Insights — where we talk real-life marketing, not just magic tricks.
🔗 Click here to subscribe and read more
Because this journey’s easier when we’re honest about it.
And I’m here to make sure you’re not building alone.
Subscribe to my newsletter
Read articles from Gloria Ataga, CPC directly inside your inbox. Subscribe to the newsletter, and don't miss out.
Written by
Gloria Ataga, CPC
Gloria Ataga, CPC
Running a business is no walk in the park. There’s always a long to-do list, a need to stay visible online, respond fast, and still make room for growth. I understand the pressure firsthand because I help business owners manage it all and grow with confidence. I’m the founder of Glow Market-Verse, your go-to partner for virtual support and smart digital solutions, and the creator of the Glow Insight blog, where I share helpful tips on building strong remote teams, retaining employees, and growing your audience. At Glow Market-Verse, we’re not just checking tasks off a list, we’re building brands that stand out and actually convert. From content that speaks to your ideal client to day-to-day support that keeps your business running like clockwork, we’re your behind-the-scenes team. Here’s what we bring to the table: 📱 Social Media Management – Grow your presence and build real engagement 📧 Email Management – Keep your inbox clean and communication flowing 📞 Customer Service Support – Especially tailored for Real Estate and Healthcare pros 🧠 General Virtual Assistance – Stay organized and focused on what matters most 🏠 Property Management Support – Handle bookings, inquiries, check-ins, and admin with ease If you're an entrepreneur, startup, or small business owner looking for a trusted team to help you stay on top of your game, Glow Market-Verse is here to make that happen. Let’s build something amazing together.