Hashtags are like glitter—flashy, fun, and hard to miss. But glitter fades fast, and so do hashtags. If you want to grow as an author in 2025, the real magic isn’t in trending tags. You know where to find it? It’s in building real connections in digital age.
A hashtag might bring new eyes to your post, but it won’t keep them there. Lasting reader relationships happen when you show up as yourself.
Why Hashtags Alone Don’t Cut It
Social media is loud. A clever hashtag can help your post appear in a crowded feed, but it won’t hold attention. Nowadays, people don’t follow hashtags anymore. They follow actual humans. Readers want your voice, your stories, your quirks, and even your behind-the-scenes mess-ups. That’s what sticks.
What Readers Really Want: Real Connections in Digital Age
- Authenticity. Share your unique perspective, not just polished announcements. Quirks and honesty go a long way.
- Engagement. Reply to comments, start conversations, and treat readers like friends, not just numbers.
- Consistency. Readers don’t need you posting every day. They just need to know you’ll show up regularly in a way they can trust.
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Beyond the Scroll: Building True Connections
- Use Hashtags as the Door, Not the Destination. They’re great for discovery, but your personality is what keeps readers coming back.
- Go Where the Conversations Happen. Whether it’s TikTok comments, Substack threads, or email replies, spend time where people actually respond.
- Value Quality Over Quantity. Ten meaningful connections will always beat a hundred empty likes.
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The Author Advantage
Here’s the secret: readers crave a connection with the people who write the stories they love. When they feel like they know you, they’re not just buying your book—they’re cheering for you. That’s a bond no hashtag can replace.
The Takeaway
In 2025, hashtags are still a useful tool, but they’re only a spark. If you want readers who stick around, focus on conversations, authenticity, and genuine interaction. Build real connections in a digital age, and you’ll create a community that follows you long after trends fade.
Related Reading: Email Lists vs. Algorithms: Building a Reader Base That Lasts
