You’ve probably followed a creator and felt like you knew them personally—like you’d grab lunch with them if they lived nearby. And then there are others who create “great” content, maybe even better-quality stuff, but you don’t feel the same pull. These types of creators are instantly relatable while others, even with talent, just don’t hit the same. So, why do people connect with some creators more than others and how can you become one of them?

People moved on from 'Influencers'

People are tired of perfectly polished everything. The internet is full of it. What grabs attention now is realness—flaws, bloopers, unfiltered opinions, and genuine emotion. It’s not the HD camera or the flawless makeup that keeps audiences loyal. It’s when creators show up with their guard down, speak honestly, and act like actual humans.

We connect with people who remind us of ourselves, not people who feel like a distant celebrity. The more “human” a creator feels, the easier it is for someone watching from their couch or phone screen to say, “Yeah, I get them.”

People can spot fakeness

You hear the word “authentic” thrown around so much that it’s starting to lose meaning, but people can always spot authentic creators who don’t pretend. If they’re nervous, they say so. If something is hard, they admit it. When they’re excited, you feel it.

That kind of honesty builds trust. And trust is what makes people stick around. You’re not just watching a tutorial or a vlog you’re building a kind of friendship. You believe them. You feel like they’re not just trying to sell you something or get views. They’re just showing up as themselves. And that’s magnetic.

It's better to be awkward and authentic than to appear perfect but fake.

It’s the way they tell their story

Some creators could be talking about something super ordinary, like making toast or walking their dog, and yet… it’s captivating. Why? It’s because they know how to tell a story.

Good storytelling makes people lean in even when your life is not glamorous or dramatic. Simply sharing moments in a way that feels personal, reflective, and often emotional creates a story that an audience can relate and engage with.

Creators who connect deeply with their audience know how to frame even the small things in a way that makes people feel something.

People follow energy and vibes, not just information

It doesn’t matter if you’re a beauty guru, gamer, teacher, or food vlogger—your energy is what people feel first. Some creators have a calm, reassuring tone that feels like therapy. Others bring hype, passion, and humor that makes their videos feel like a party. Either way, people are drawn to the feeling a creator gives them.

When someone makes you feel seen, understood, inspired, or even just entertained, you naturally form a connection. It becomes less about the topic and more about how it’s delivered. That unique vibe and tone sticks with people.

Do you know what your vibe is?

Relatability is more important than popularity

It’s easy to assume people connect more with big influencers, but that’s not always true. In fact, micro and mid-tier creators often have deeper, more loyal communities. Why? Because they still feel relatable. They haven’t been swallowed up by brand deals, flashy lifestyles, or algorithm-chasing content.

People love creators who feel like they’re walking the same path figuring things out, facing the same struggles, and staying grounded. When a creator talks about a breakup, job stress, or imposter syndrome, and it mirrors what you’re going through, it hits differently. That’s not just “good content.” That’s a connection.

Final thoughts

If you’re a creator wondering how to build a strong connection with your audience, don’t overthink the algorithm. Think about the human on the other side of the screen. Show up as yourself. Share your real stories. Let people in. That’s what makes someone choose to follow you.

Because when people say, “I don’t know, I just love them,”—that’s connection. And that’s what lasts.