Slow Growth, Real Results: How I’m Building a Social Media Following That Actually Buys

Let me tell you something I’ve learned the hard way: going viral is fun, but it doesn’t always pay the bills. When I started Stanifer Designs, I thought I needed to grow fast to be successful. But over time, I realized that slow and steady—with intention—was actually what brought in the kind of customers I wanted: engaged, supportive, and paying.

If you’re a small business owner trying to build a presence online without feeling like you’re constantly hustling, here’s what’s worked for me.

1. I Stopped Chasing Numbers

I used to get caught up in follower counts. Now? I care way more about connection. I’d rather have a small group of people who genuinely care about what I’m making than a big audience that scrolls past everything.

What I do now:

• I respond to every DM and comment (yes, even the little ones like “love this!”).

• I ask questions in my posts and treat the comment section like a conversation, not a billboard.

• I think of my audience as a community, not customers.

2. I Got Clear on Who I’m Talking To

For a long time, I was trying to speak to “everyone,” and it made my content feel scattered. Now, I picture one person when I’m writing captions or sharing products—someone who values thoughtful design and timeless pieces.

How that helped:

• My messaging got simpler.

• I stopped second-guessing what to post.

• The right people started showing up more often (and they actually shop!).

3. I Don’t Post Every Day (And That’s Okay)

I used to think I had to be online 24/7 to keep up. But once I gave myself permission to post a few times a week with purpose, everything got easier—and better.

Here’s what works for me:

• I pick a few core themes: behind the scenes, my design process, customer love, and the “why” behind the brand.

• I batch content when I can, and I don’t panic if I miss a day.

• I aim for consistency, not constant noise.

4. I Share the Messy Middle

People love to see the finished product—but they connect with the messy middle. When I started showing more of my process, from sketches to setbacks, something shifted. My audience got more engaged, and my DMs turned into actual orders.

What I share now:

• My workspace (even when it’s a mess).

• What inspired a piece and how it came to life.

• Honest thoughts on being a maker and small business owner.

5. I Made It Easier to Shop

This part is huge: I used to be so subtle about selling, I forgot to make it easy for people to actually buy. Now I still keep it casual, but I’m not afraid to be clear.

Things that helped:

• Adding product links in my bio and stories.

• Saying things like “DM me if you want one” (and people do!).

• Making sure my website works well on mobile (most of my customers shop from their phones).

6. I Gave It Time

This is the part no one wants to hear—but it’s the most real. Growth takes time. There are still weeks where it’s quiet. But instead of panicking, I look at what’s working and stay the course.

How I track success now:

• I pay attention to what posts spark DMs or website visits.

• I celebrate every small win (a comment, a sale, a repeat customer).

• I remind myself that a slow build is a strong one.

If You’re in This Too…

If you’re trying to grow a small business on social without losing your mind, you’re not alone. You don’t have to go viral. You don’t have to be on five platforms. You just have to show up, share your story, and build something that lasts.

That’s what I’m doing with Stanifer Designs—and it’s working, slowly but surely.