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How to become an influencer?
Tell us everything we need to know to become an influencer.
Note: We've seen a lot of interest in this career, so we're looking for guidance from our community of professionals.
5 answers
Oluwaseun Alli
Writer, UI/UX, Web Designer, Python
12
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Oluwaseun’s Answer
To become an influencer, you have to build your personal brand, gain credibility in a niche, and authentically build relationships with your audience. Below are some steps that would make you an influencer:
Choose Your Niche: Choose a specific area you feel so passionate about and are so knowledgeable about, basically from fashion, beauty, fitness, and travel to technology and food to lifestyle or even niche hobbies like gaming and DIY crafts.
Define your unique voice. Try to decipher what exactly makes you different from the rest of the niche contenders; find out the most unique angle, personality, and flair to create content with. Sticking to your voice and personality helps in binding the audience at an absolutely distinct level.
Create High-Quality Content: Concentrate on high-quality, engaging content that is going to resonate with your target audience. This could mean creating blog posts, videos, photos, podcasts, or social media posts, or even a combination of any of those to create a good mix. Invest in quality equipment and editing tools to jazz up the production value of the content.
Consistency is the elixir toward development of a loyal following and maintenance of prolonged involvement by your audience. Set a schedule for posting and adhere to it religiously. Consistent posting helps keep your audience engaged and enforces your presence in their feeds.
Build Up Your Online Profile: Use social media platforms including Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and LinkedIn to put up your content and connect with people. Where there are no defined demarcations for the target audience, it is recommended to go for general platforms. Focus on platforms that are along the target audience line and grow a positive strong presence in them.
Engaging the followers: Actively engage with the audience, such as answering comments, messages, and questions. Give chances for followers to interact and exchange ideas. Be appreciative of their support and feedback from the bottom of your heart.
Work with others: Share with others, be it influencers, brands, and people who create content in the same type of domain as you do. This in return will help to tap into newer audiences that possibly will create valued collaborative opportunities.
Monetizing Your Influence: Brands partnerships, sponsored posts and content, product reviews, merchandise sales, to even selling digital products or services—these are only but a few ways through which you can monetize your influence. As your influence grows, so will the opportunities that come up and could include things such as speaking, events, and endorsements.
Be Real: Being authentic allows you to build trust and credibility with your target audience. Be transparent, genuine, and truthful in all your interactions and the content you create. Stay cautious around the endorsement of products and services not really believed in or outside your value and brand scope.
Stay Informed and Adapt
Always be up to date with the new changes in trends, the new algorithms developed, and the best practices that are taking shape in your world of social media and content creation. Just stay informed and modify your strategies to stay current and one step ahead in this ever-changing digital game.
So just consider that building influence and authority in your niche doesn't happen overnight. Remain patient, true to your heart and beliefs, and focused on giving value to your audience. Persist and be passionate, and you'll achieve your influencer goals.
Choose Your Niche: Choose a specific area you feel so passionate about and are so knowledgeable about, basically from fashion, beauty, fitness, and travel to technology and food to lifestyle or even niche hobbies like gaming and DIY crafts.
Define your unique voice. Try to decipher what exactly makes you different from the rest of the niche contenders; find out the most unique angle, personality, and flair to create content with. Sticking to your voice and personality helps in binding the audience at an absolutely distinct level.
Create High-Quality Content: Concentrate on high-quality, engaging content that is going to resonate with your target audience. This could mean creating blog posts, videos, photos, podcasts, or social media posts, or even a combination of any of those to create a good mix. Invest in quality equipment and editing tools to jazz up the production value of the content.
Consistency is the elixir toward development of a loyal following and maintenance of prolonged involvement by your audience. Set a schedule for posting and adhere to it religiously. Consistent posting helps keep your audience engaged and enforces your presence in their feeds.
Build Up Your Online Profile: Use social media platforms including Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and LinkedIn to put up your content and connect with people. Where there are no defined demarcations for the target audience, it is recommended to go for general platforms. Focus on platforms that are along the target audience line and grow a positive strong presence in them.
Engaging the followers: Actively engage with the audience, such as answering comments, messages, and questions. Give chances for followers to interact and exchange ideas. Be appreciative of their support and feedback from the bottom of your heart.
Work with others: Share with others, be it influencers, brands, and people who create content in the same type of domain as you do. This in return will help to tap into newer audiences that possibly will create valued collaborative opportunities.
Monetizing Your Influence: Brands partnerships, sponsored posts and content, product reviews, merchandise sales, to even selling digital products or services—these are only but a few ways through which you can monetize your influence. As your influence grows, so will the opportunities that come up and could include things such as speaking, events, and endorsements.
Be Real: Being authentic allows you to build trust and credibility with your target audience. Be transparent, genuine, and truthful in all your interactions and the content you create. Stay cautious around the endorsement of products and services not really believed in or outside your value and brand scope.
Stay Informed and Adapt
Always be up to date with the new changes in trends, the new algorithms developed, and the best practices that are taking shape in your world of social media and content creation. Just stay informed and modify your strategies to stay current and one step ahead in this ever-changing digital game.
So just consider that building influence and authority in your niche doesn't happen overnight. Remain patient, true to your heart and beliefs, and focused on giving value to your audience. Persist and be passionate, and you'll achieve your influencer goals.
Timothy Odagbodo
Graphic designer
4
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Timothy’s Answer
Hi
It doesn’t take much to be influencer. I will list the basic things you need.
1st being influencer means you will be current with the activities around, and it requires making research to understand and know the truth, so as not to mislead your audience.
2nd you will build your brand and focus on a niche you like most. Post about your niche everyday
3rd you need to build your audience or followers first you have to pick one social media platform you want to focus your attention on. You can have multiple social media platforms account but is advisable to focus on one at the beginning. Again post about ur niche everyday, be natural comments on topics that interest you.
You can also grow your audience by contacting an influencer to promote your page this will require money
You can also run ADs on your page
4th it takes time to have a large audience as followers but do not give up keep doing it you will get there. When you finally have the large audience you can start making money by doing promotions and ads on your page.
It doesn’t take much to be influencer. I will list the basic things you need.
1st being influencer means you will be current with the activities around, and it requires making research to understand and know the truth, so as not to mislead your audience.
2nd you will build your brand and focus on a niche you like most. Post about your niche everyday
3rd you need to build your audience or followers first you have to pick one social media platform you want to focus your attention on. You can have multiple social media platforms account but is advisable to focus on one at the beginning. Again post about ur niche everyday, be natural comments on topics that interest you.
You can also grow your audience by contacting an influencer to promote your page this will require money
You can also run ADs on your page
4th it takes time to have a large audience as followers but do not give up keep doing it you will get there. When you finally have the large audience you can start making money by doing promotions and ads on your page.
Mayra Benitez Maggio
marketing specialist
5
Answers
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Updated
Mayra’s Answer
Hi there! Becoming an influencer can be an exciting and rewarding journey. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Firstly, consider taking online marketing courses. Google offers some great free ones that will give you a solid foundation!
It's important to discover your niche and focus on it. What are you passionate about? What can you offer that is unique and valuable to your audience?
Remember to tailor your content to the format of each platform. What works on Instagram might not be as effective on Twitter or TikTok.
Be authentic and genuine in your posts. Authenticity is key to connecting with your audience and building strong relationships.
Don't be afraid to try new things and experiment with different types of content. Creativity is your best friend.
Lastly, be patient and consistent. Building a community takes time, so keep working hard and enjoy the journey.
I wish you all the success in the world on your journey to becoming an influencer!
Sending you a big hug and lots of luck!
May
Firstly, consider taking online marketing courses. Google offers some great free ones that will give you a solid foundation!
It's important to discover your niche and focus on it. What are you passionate about? What can you offer that is unique and valuable to your audience?
Remember to tailor your content to the format of each platform. What works on Instagram might not be as effective on Twitter or TikTok.
Be authentic and genuine in your posts. Authenticity is key to connecting with your audience and building strong relationships.
Don't be afraid to try new things and experiment with different types of content. Creativity is your best friend.
Lastly, be patient and consistent. Building a community takes time, so keep working hard and enjoy the journey.
I wish you all the success in the world on your journey to becoming an influencer!
Sending you a big hug and lots of luck!
May
Louis Adorno
Screenwriter & Filmmaker
10
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Louis’s Answer
Becoming an influencer is both the simplest and trickiest "get famous quick" pathways. From the outside, it seems easy: "make simple videos on TikTok or Instagram and become famous." However, it takes delicate planning, using social media algorithms to your advantage, and a lot of patience.
The first step, as with any foray into content creation, is to know your concept. Try to do something unique, bring a fresh and creative perspective or voice to the type of content you are creating. Remember, every person has their own distinct voice and personality, so use that as the focus of whatever you are trying to do.
Next, see what is trending. What are the popular hashtags, viral videos, or concepts. On whichever platform you use, browse the explore page, and search for trending tags, audios, and other recurring themes. By making similar content while something is "hot", it allows you to use the algorithm to help elevate your content to viewers, and potential followers.
Also, make sure what you are putting out is high quality. Make it attractive so that potential followers will be drawn to something that stands out in a large pool of content online.
The other key component, as others have mentioned, is to be consistent no matter how long it takes. Even if content creation becomes your side project, stick with it, as it could take years for you to see serious traction and engagement. Just keep putting out quality content, and over time the viewership will grow. And if worse comes to worse and you decide to stop, at least you have a strong portfolio of digital content that you can show to employers in the fields of digital marketing, videography, and social content creation.
The first step, as with any foray into content creation, is to know your concept. Try to do something unique, bring a fresh and creative perspective or voice to the type of content you are creating. Remember, every person has their own distinct voice and personality, so use that as the focus of whatever you are trying to do.
Next, see what is trending. What are the popular hashtags, viral videos, or concepts. On whichever platform you use, browse the explore page, and search for trending tags, audios, and other recurring themes. By making similar content while something is "hot", it allows you to use the algorithm to help elevate your content to viewers, and potential followers.
Also, make sure what you are putting out is high quality. Make it attractive so that potential followers will be drawn to something that stands out in a large pool of content online.
The other key component, as others have mentioned, is to be consistent no matter how long it takes. Even if content creation becomes your side project, stick with it, as it could take years for you to see serious traction and engagement. Just keep putting out quality content, and over time the viewership will grow. And if worse comes to worse and you decide to stop, at least you have a strong portfolio of digital content that you can show to employers in the fields of digital marketing, videography, and social content creation.
Amy C.
Director of Strategic Communications
35
Answers
Oakland, California
Updated
Amy’s Answer
I would encourage you to think beyond being an influencer yourself. There are TONS of jobs that don't require you to be the influencer and you can work with lots of them and learn. Here are some examples - Core Roles in Influencer Marketing
Influencer Marketing Specialist
Identifies and builds relationships with influencers.
Manages influencer outreach, negotiation, and campaign execution.
Influencer Marketing Manager
Oversees the entire influencer strategy, from budget allocation to campaign performance.
Manages influencer contracts, KPIs, and long-term partnerships.
Affiliate Marketing Manager
Focuses on influencer partnerships involving affiliate programs where influencers earn commissions based on sales or referrals.
Social Media Manager
Collaborates with influencers to enhance brand presence on social platforms.
May oversee campaigns and ensure the influencer content aligns with the brand’s voice.
Brand Partnership Manager
Develops collaborations between the brand and influencers for co-branded content and mutual marketing benefits.
Creative and Content Roles
Content Creator/Producer
Works alongside influencers to design and produce engaging visuals, videos, or posts.
Ensures content aligns with campaign goals.
Creative Strategist
Develops creative concepts for influencer campaigns, including themes, hashtags, and visual direction.
Photography/Videography Specialist
Supports influencers in capturing high-quality branded content for campaigns.
Strategic and Analytical Roles
Social Media Strategist
Designs the overall strategy for integrating influencers into the brand’s digital marketing efforts.
Focuses on long-term goals like awareness, engagement, and ROI.
Campaign Analyst
Tracks and reports on the success of influencer campaigns (e.g., reach, engagement, conversions).
Uses analytics to optimize future collaborations.
SEO and Content Marketing Specialist
Leverages influencer content to improve search rankings and drive traffic to the brand’s website or platforms.
Relationship-Focused Roles
Talent Manager (for Influencers)
Represents influencers, helping them negotiate contracts and manage brand collaborations.
Works on behalf of influencers, but closely interacts with brands.
PR and Media Relations Specialist
Develops relationships with influencers as part of broader media outreach.
Manages influencer press kits and ensures positive brand representation.
Community Manager
Engages with followers who interact with influencer content, responding to comments and building a loyal community.
Operational and Support Roles
Contracts and Legal Advisor
Reviews agreements to protect the brand and influencer, including usage rights and payment terms.
Event Coordinator
Organizes events where influencers participate, such as product launches, brand experiences, or trade shows.
E-commerce Coordinator
Manages influencer-specific campaigns like discount codes, affiliate links, or exclusive product drops.
Influencer Marketing Specialist
Identifies and builds relationships with influencers.
Manages influencer outreach, negotiation, and campaign execution.
Influencer Marketing Manager
Oversees the entire influencer strategy, from budget allocation to campaign performance.
Manages influencer contracts, KPIs, and long-term partnerships.
Affiliate Marketing Manager
Focuses on influencer partnerships involving affiliate programs where influencers earn commissions based on sales or referrals.
Social Media Manager
Collaborates with influencers to enhance brand presence on social platforms.
May oversee campaigns and ensure the influencer content aligns with the brand’s voice.
Brand Partnership Manager
Develops collaborations between the brand and influencers for co-branded content and mutual marketing benefits.
Creative and Content Roles
Content Creator/Producer
Works alongside influencers to design and produce engaging visuals, videos, or posts.
Ensures content aligns with campaign goals.
Creative Strategist
Develops creative concepts for influencer campaigns, including themes, hashtags, and visual direction.
Photography/Videography Specialist
Supports influencers in capturing high-quality branded content for campaigns.
Strategic and Analytical Roles
Social Media Strategist
Designs the overall strategy for integrating influencers into the brand’s digital marketing efforts.
Focuses on long-term goals like awareness, engagement, and ROI.
Campaign Analyst
Tracks and reports on the success of influencer campaigns (e.g., reach, engagement, conversions).
Uses analytics to optimize future collaborations.
SEO and Content Marketing Specialist
Leverages influencer content to improve search rankings and drive traffic to the brand’s website or platforms.
Relationship-Focused Roles
Talent Manager (for Influencers)
Represents influencers, helping them negotiate contracts and manage brand collaborations.
Works on behalf of influencers, but closely interacts with brands.
PR and Media Relations Specialist
Develops relationships with influencers as part of broader media outreach.
Manages influencer press kits and ensures positive brand representation.
Community Manager
Engages with followers who interact with influencer content, responding to comments and building a loyal community.
Operational and Support Roles
Contracts and Legal Advisor
Reviews agreements to protect the brand and influencer, including usage rights and payment terms.
Event Coordinator
Organizes events where influencers participate, such as product launches, brand experiences, or trade shows.
E-commerce Coordinator
Manages influencer-specific campaigns like discount codes, affiliate links, or exclusive product drops.
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