Why Some Videos Go Viral While Others Don't: The Frustration of Content Creators

Social Media's Unpredictable Algorithm: A Content Creator's Dilemma In today's digital age, social media platforms have become crucial for content creators to reach their audience. However, the algorithms governing these platforms often seem arbitrary, leaving creators frustrated and questioning their strategies. A recent video by a content creator, adam_unusual, highlights this dilemma. In a short clip filmed in his car, adam_unusual expresses his bewilderment over the inconsistent performance of his videos. "I make a video, it goes viral," he says, "then I make another, and it gets hardly any views." He uses the example of a coupon offer he received, which he didn't use to illustrate the point about the unpredictable nature of reaching a large audience. This experience is not unique to adam_unusual; many creators face similar challenges. The unpredictability of social media algorithms impacts content creators' ability to build sustainable careers. The lack of transparency in how these algorithms work makes it difficult for creators to understand what factors contribute to a video's success or failure. While the algorithms are designed to promote engagement, the inconsistent outcomes often leave creators feeling disheartened and uncertain about their future. This situation underscores the need for greater transparency and predictability in social media algorithms to support the creators who contribute so much to the platforms' content.