In today’s digital age, being an Influencer is a dream job for many. Making money by sharing life on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok is incredibly appealing. But, how do you manage balancing your time as an influencer?

However—um, no, wait! Scratch that. That introduction is no fun. Maybe someone slogging away in their job wrote that! So here’s how an influencer would introduce this article.

“Hey there, fellow hustlers and dreamers! Are you tired of living a double life, trapped between the monotonous world of TPS reports and the glamorous realm of social media stardom? Are you daydreaming all the time?

Fear not, guys, for we have the ultimate guide to having your cake and eating it, too (with a selfie, of course)!

This could be your one-way ticket to the Insta-fabulous life without ditching the security of your day job.

So, grab your favorite latte (name on the cup or not), put on that sassy pair of reading glasses (or power sunglasses if you like), and let’s dive into the world of hashtags, #OOTDs, and algorithm hacks—all while keeping your boss none the wiser.”

Sounds fun. Doesn’t it? Let the influencer games begin!

“You can never go wrong by investing in communities and the human beings within them.”

– Pam Moore

The Passion Project: Find and Select the Niche

The journey of aspiring Influencers begins with discovering their true passion.

Whether it’s fashion, tech, travel, or cooking, choosing a niche that excites them and aligns with their interests is a must. Authenticity is critical—followers will sense if the influence is genuinely passionate about the chosen topic or theme. 

Finding a niche in today’s fast-paced e-world is like finding a needle in a haystack. So what to do? Follow these five steps:

1. Self-Reflection Session
Aspiring influencers should unleash their inner Socrates and ask these big questions: What are their passions, interests, and talents? How do they want to inspire and entertain their audience? Then, jot down the thoughts and compare them to existing influencers in various niches.

2. Market Research
Befriend the almighty Google and dive into the depths of the World Wide Web. Explore popular platforms and categories, and watch for underrepresented topics or unique angles. Create a list of potential niches and evaluate their market demand.

3. Target Audience Research
Influencers should identify their ideal followers, whether they are Gen Z makeup enthusiasts, millennial DIY aficionados, or foodies with a taste for exotic cuisine.

Influencers can effectively encourage potential followers to click the ‘follow’ button and join their online community by tailoring content, tone, and style to resonate with their target audience.

4. Competitor Analysis
Put that Sherlock hat on!

Aspiring influencers can learn everything they can about their competitors using the best digital marketing tools.

For example, suppose they want to become top influencers in digital marketing. In that case, they can subscribe to creative or performance marketing thought leaders and identify their strengths, weaknesses, and content gaps to determine how to outshine them.

Aspiring influencers can learn everything they can about their competitors using the best digital marketing tools. Identify their strengths, weaknesses, and content gaps to determine how to outshine them.

5. Test, Iterate, and Conquer
Experiment with different content formats and topics within the niche. Track engagement, growth, and audience feedback, and use the data to fine-tune strategy. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will the influencer empire.

Optimizing Social Media Profiles: The Online Avatar Says a Lot

How do you optimize social media profiles for an influencer-ready status? 

• Keep a great picture ready. This should not be random but speak volumes about the influencer. If you want to be a travel influencer, use a photo near a famous landmark or tourist spot. 
• Add links. Lead followers to a website or a Linktree link that gives out more details.
• Then comes the bio. Crafting a captivating bio is like creating a secret sauce that keeps people craving more. Including a touch of personal flair, a dash of humor, and a sprinkle of intrigue works wonders. Mention the niche and some achievements, and don’t forget a call-to-action (CTA) to encourage followers or sign-ups.
• Set a content calendar. More on this further in the article. Deciding how frequently one must post is crucial.

Content Creator vs. Influencer: Spot the Difference!

There’s a fine line between a content creator and an influencer. According to Jeremy Boudinet, Sr. Director of Growth at the influencer marketing company Ubiquitous, it all comes down to this: “Creators make content for the sake of making content and sharing it online. Influencers make content to grow their brand and highlight their lives on social media.” But what exactly does that mean? Let’s get into the specifics.

Difference 1:

Content creators are the masterminds behind captivating content, spinning stories with their words, images, and videos. Conversely, influencers are the social butterflies who wield the power of persuasion to shape opinions and inspire action.

Example: A content creator might be a brilliant food blogger, while an influencer might convince someone to try that avocado toast they never knew they needed.

Difference 2:

Content creators are all about crafting high-quality content that resonates with their audience. Influencers, however, are more concerned with reach, engagement, and swaying the masses.

Example: A content creator celebrates the beauty of their latest travel vlog, while an influencer triumphantly tracks the number of #wanderlust enthusiasts they’ve inspired to book a trip. 

Difference 3:

Content creators often monetize their work through advertising, sponsorships, or product sales. Influencers, in contrast, primarily make banks by partnering with brands and promoting products or services to their loyal followers.

Example: A content creator might sell their e-book on digital photography, while an influencer snaps a selfie with the latest, most excellent camera and cashes in on the commission.

Difference 4:

Content creators, by nature, specialize in a specific niche. Influencers, however, can cast a wider net, working their magic across various industries and interests.

Example: A content creator might become the go-to coach for all things plant-based, while an influencer can effortlessly hop from promoting vegan snacks to rocking the latest sustainable fashion trends.

Why Do Brands Need Influencers? 3 Frank Reasons

The influencer marketing industry is set to touch a market worth of 2.1 billion. A study revealed that more than 23% of the respondents planned to spend about 40% of their marketing budget on influencer marketing. Why is that?

Reason A: Access to Targeted Audiences
Influencers uniquely can reach specific, engaged audiences that align with a brand’s target market.

By collaborating with influencers, brands can precisely deliver their message to consumers likely to be interested in their products or services.

Reason B: Enhanced Trust and Authenticity
Influencers build trust with their followers through authentic interactions and relatable content.

For example, when they endorse a brand, their recommendations are perceived as more credible and trustworthy than traditional advertising, leading to higher conversion rates and brand loyalty.

Reason C: Higher Return on Investment (ROI)
Influencer marketing can be more cost-effective than traditional advertising methods.

By leveraging influencers’ existing reach and engagement, brands can achieve a higher ROI, as they benefit from increased brand awareness, consumer trust, and the likelihood of making sales.

Image Source

Success is not about having a large following, but about having a loyal and engaged audience.

Neil Patel

Understanding the Audience: Pick Up That Magnifying Glass

Defining the audience and understanding who they are is the difference between failure and success. Research the profiles of the competitors and check who they interact with.

What content do they enjoy? Which posts do they engage with the most? By observing their followers’ digital footprints, aspiring influencers can craft right-on-target content.

Ask questions, respond to comments, and slide into those DMs. Building genuine connections and fostering open communication will give aspiring influencers invaluable insights into their audience’s needs and desires.

Another essential thing is that data is the secret ingredient to audience understanding.

Utilize platform analytics to monitor demographics, interests, and content preferences. With these golden knowledge nuggets, one can create compelling content that resonates with their audience.

Creating and Posting Relevant Content: The Key!

71% of influencers admitted to having increased the content they posted on their social media profiles. However, quantity is not enough; quality is also essential. Some AI efficiency improvement tools you must try for social media post trending post finder, AI Video Editors, Post Generator, post scheduler, etc

Quality comes from posting content that is RELEVANT to the followers. This increases relatability. 

• Keep current with industry updates: Influencers should stay informed on trends, news, and emerging topics in their niche to create relevant, engaging content that resonates with their audience.
• Understand follower needs: Identifying audience preferences, challenges, and aspirations enables influencers to tailor content that addresses these aspects while showcasing their unique perspective.
• Prioritize quality content: Focus on creating content that educates, entertains, or inspires, incorporating compelling storytelling, captivating visuals, and unique ideas.
• Maintain brand consistency: Establish a consistent brand identity in tone, style, and visuals, and develop a regular posting schedule to keep followers engaged.
• Adapt content for platforms: Customize content for each social media platform’s features, audiences, and best practices, maximizing reach and engagement across channels.
• Test and refine content strategies: Experiment with various content types and formats, monitor audience responses, and continuously use these insights to improve strategy and content quality.

Influencer Marketing: 5 Things to Know

1. Rise of Micro and Nano Influencers

83% of marketers who were part of a survey believe influencer marketing to be effective. This is good news for an aspiring influencer.

Due to this focus, there will be a rise in micro and nano influencers. These influencers often have higher engagement rates and are ideal for a targeted approach.

2. Data Is Gold!

Analytics = gold mine. Regularly analyze performance using analytics tools (built for most social media platforms).

By monitoring engagement, reach, and growth, potential influencers can fine-tune their strategy, optimize content, and continue their journey toward social media stardom.

3. Video, Video, Video!

Video content continues to steal the show, with platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts taking center stage.

As a result, influencers who can dazzle audiences with engaging video content will find themselves in high demand by brands eager to capitalize on these popular formats. This can be done easily by utilizing the power of a TikTok video editor, as it makes your job easier, and you don’t have to hustle for it.

4. Long-Term Partnerships Are In!

Brands are all about playing the long game.

Establishing lasting relationships with influencers leads to more genuine collaborations, building trust with audiences, and weaving together more cohesive and effective marketing campaigns.

5. A Greater Emphasis on Social Responsibility 

Consumers expect brands and influencers to strut their ethical stuff as they become more socially and environmentally conscious.

So, sustainable influencer marketing takes flight, with brands partnering with influencers who share their commitment to transparency, social responsibility, and eco-friendly practices.

“People don’t buy goods and services. Instead, they buy relations, stories, and magic.”

– Seth Godin

How Does One Become An Influencer and Get Paid?

The million-dollar question! There are five major ways influencers get paid. 

One is through sponsored content. Influencers can partner with brands to create sponsored posts, showcasing a product or service in their unique style.

Two, via affiliate marketing, where an influencer promotes products through affiliate links. Influencers can earn a commission for each sale through their unique referral code.

Third, brand ambassadorship. Influencers can become long-term representatives for a brand, receiving payment for ongoing promotion and exclusive content. 

The fourth one is through merchandising. With a loyal following, influencers can create and sell branded merchandise or collaborate on product lines. There are endless possibilities.

The last way is through paid content offered through a paywall or subscriptions. Influencers can offer their followers exclusive, premium content or experiences through subscription services or platforms like Patreon.

How to Become An Influencer: 17 Steps

Becoming an influencer is a journey that blends passion, strategy, and authenticity. In our comprehensive guide of 17 steps, we’ll walk you through the foundational building blocks of carving out a niche, understanding your audience, and creating content that resonates.

From establishing a consistent brand image to mastering the algorithms of different social platforms, these steps are designed to elevate your online presence and engage a dedicated following.

We’ll also cover the importance of networking, collaboration, and staying ahead of trends, ensuring that your path to influencer status is strategic and genuine.

Whether starting from scratch or looking to refine your approach, this guide provides the insights you need to influence and inspire.

1. Channeling the Inner Creator: Pick the Right Platform

Choose the social media platform that best suits your content style.

Love photos and videos? Instagram is your playground.

Enjoy sharing their thoughts? Twitter is the place to be.

If videos are your thing, TikTok or YouTube might be the ticket to influencer status.

2. Consistency is Queen: Create a Content Calendar and Post Unique Content Regularly

With a niche and platform, it’s time to create a content calendar. Consistency is essential for building an engaged following.

Balancing time as an influencer means juggling the 9-to-5 by planning posts and setting aside time on weekends or evenings to create content. Aspiring influencers should remember to post unique content that helps them stand out.

3. Always Be Learning: Stay on Top of Trends!

The digital landscape is ever-evolving, and so should an aspiring influencer.

Stay up-to-date with the latest trends, platform updates, and industry news to ensure the content remains fresh and engaging. The more one knows, the more one grows.

4. Stay On Step Ahead of Current Events: Dig Deep!

To stay ahead in the ever-changing world of current events, an influencer must first become a voracious reader of reputable sources and diligently scan social media for trending topics.

Additionally, they should listen to podcasts and watch YouTube videos from thought leaders to stay informed.

Networking is crucial, as engaging with fellow influencers and experts allows for exchanging insights and ideas, proving that two heads are better than one.

Finally, customizing notifications from news apps and social media platforms ensures that the influencer remains the first to know about breaking news or emerging trends.

5. Understand All Channels: Venture Out!

There is a vast maze of so many digital channels. Each platform offers unique opportunities and requires tailored content strategies.

For example, Instagram shines with its visual appeal and creative stories, while Twitter thrives on concise, impactful messages.

TikTok boasts short, catchy videos perfect for tutorials and challenges, whereas YouTube excels with long-form content, including vlogs and explainer videos.

Meanwhile, Facebook enables influencers to build communities and collaborate with brands.

By familiarizing themselves with the nuances of each channel, influencers can create content that resonates with their audience and maximizes their online presence.

6. Say No to Sponsored Content: Don’t Be Afraid

There’s real power in saying “no” to influencers regarding sponsored content. Why’s that important? Keeping things authentic is the heart and soul of an influencer’s credibility.

If a brand collaboration seems off or fake, followers will catch on, and the trust an influencer has worked so hard to build can disappear quickly.

Plus, being picky about partnerships means the content stays fresh and exciting, avoiding that dreaded “sellout” label.

Conversely, flexing the “no” muscle can lead to even better opportunities, as influencers prove their dedication to quality over a quick payday. 

7. Answer: How Many Followers Does One Need to Become Influenced?

People with 1k to 10k followers are called “nano influencers.”

Those who have between 10k to 100k followers are called “micro-influencers.” “Macro influencers” have 100k to 1 million followers. “Mega influencers” have over 1 million followers.

An aspiring influencer can start with “nano” and then keep growing. 

8. B For Branding: Create An Influencer Brand

One’s brand is crucial to standing out in the influencer world. Develop a unique aesthetic by creating a consistent color palette, typography, and style. This will make the content instantly recognizable and help attract the ideal audience.

9. Set Realistic Goals For Constant Growth: Track Them Monthly

How to know what goals are realistic? Be S.M.A.R.T.; set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals. This winning formula ensures a clear path to success and keeps those dreams within reach.

Once the goals are set, an aspiring influencer should divide them into bite-sized actions and track them every month using a physical chart or a digital tracker (could be a simple Excel or Google Sheet).

10. #OpenForCollab: Let Brands Know!

An aspiring influencer can first mention they are looking for or open to collaborations in their bio. Many add an email id or say “DM for collabs.”

The influencer can also engage with brands on social media and let them know they are interested. To facilitate collaborations, brands can be tagged using trending hashtags.

Another critical thing for an influencer is a media kit containing details about their target audience, news coverage, past collaboration details, engagement rates, etc. 

11. Engage, Engage, Engage: Foster a Loyal Community

Followers are the most significant asset, like royalty! Responding to comments, answering questions, and engaging with the audience regularly can help with organic growth. Creating a solid community will also boost credibility.

One can also go live and interact with their followers. An excellent tool for engagement is an “Ask Me Anything (AMA) Session,” where the influencer answers questions that the followers ask. 

12. Benchmarking Data Is Gold: Learn, Learn, Learn

Benchmarking data serves as a vital ingredient for an influencer’s success.

By comparing their performance metrics with their peers, influencers can discover their strengths and weaknesses, enabling them to enhance their content strategy and stay competitive.

Plus, benchmarking data is an effective means to demonstrate growth and value to potential brand partners. Embracing this data also reveals trends and best practices within their niche, equipping influencers with the knowledge to adapt and evolve.

As a result, they can maintain audience engagement and continue to thrive in their industry.

13. Monitoring Engagement Data and Make Changes: Don’t Go Blind

Influencers can gain valuable insights into their audience’s preferences by monitoring likes, comments, shares, and other interactions. This enables them to create content that resonates with their followers, enhancing their influence and reach.

Analyzing engagement data also assists influencers in identifying optimal posting times and content formats, ensuring their posts have maximum impact. The most common way of measuring an influencer’s success is to check the views, reach, and impressions.

Additionally, robust engagement metrics are crucial for attracting brand partnerships, as they demonstrate an influencer’s ability to connect with their audience effectively.

14. Refine and reassess the Strategy: Change Is the Only Constant

Initially, an aspiring influencer might think posting video reels on Instagram about funny facts is the way. But with time, they might realize that they might need to add Instagram Lives to their strategy or make more animated videos.

Reassessing the plan will help an influencer stay relevant and “influential.”

15.  The Art of Hashtags: Master the Algorithm

Research and use relevant hashtags to increase the visibility of content.

Understanding the platform’s algorithm and posting at optimal times can ensure maximum engagement from the target audience. There are various tools available to research hashtags like “Hashtagigy,” “Rite Tag,” and “Keyhole” that can help.

16. Collaborate, Don’t Compete: Network with Like-Minded Influencers

Building relationships with fellow influencers within the niche is a must.

Collaborating on projects, attending events, and sharing each other’s content. This will help with maximum exposure, offering a chance to learn from others and expand an influencer’s reach.

17. The Influencer Time Balancing Act

Juggling a full-time job and influencer dreams can be challenging. Learning to manage time effectively by setting priorities, delegating tasks, and utilizing tools like scheduling apps and content creation software can be an effective solution.

“Don’t just be an influencer; be a game changer, a trendsetter, and an inspiration.”

– Unknown

Before We Say Bye: A Real-Life Influencer Story For Some Inspiration!

If it has been done once, it can be done again. As a departing kick, here’s the story of Katie Peirce, who once worked for a fin-tech company.

Katie Peirce, a 27-year-old Twitch streamer, decided to quit her full-time digital marketing job in 2022 and focus on content creation during the “Great Resignation.”

Peirce knew the risks involved, as she and her boyfriend had recently bought a house and were giving up a $45,000 annual salary. Instead, she made between $800 and $1,000 monthly as a part-time Twitch streamer.

Despite the uncertainty, Peirce’s decision paid off. Almost a year later, she earns between $3,500 and $4,000 monthly, streaming for five hours daily.

In addition, she became a Twitch partner, allowing her to monetize her channel and an official partner for “Sea of Thieves,” enabling her to offer in-game prizes to subscribers.

With Twitch’s ad-revenue program, Peirce’s income stabilized, and she no longer relies solely on donations from subscribers. She now earns 55% of the ad revenue from each stream. 

Ready? Get, Set, Go! 

An aspiring influencer might be worried about the balancing act in finding the time to do all this while having a day job. The key is to break down tasks into smaller ones and do them for one hour daily. One can also make a checklist and track progress. This way, it won’t feel overwhelming.

For aspiring influencers with a job, these tips can also come in handy:

• Time management, time management, time management. Be self-disciplined and eliminate distractions. 
• Being one’s natural self. Creating content that does not require impersonation or scripting is easier. Letting one’s innate personality shine is the way to go.
• Upskill with online courses for skills like photography, video editing, social media marketing, etc. 
• Network and collaborate by attending events online and offline.

Achieving influencer success while maintaining a day job is entirely possible with the right strategies.

Aspiring influencers can build a thriving online presence without sacrificing their primary income source by mastering time management, focusing on a niche, and consistently delivering high-quality content that connects with their audience.

Furthermore, by networking, adapting to trends, and setting realistic goals, they can stay ahead of the curve and attract meaningful collaborations and brand partnerships.

So, take the leap, follow these expert tips, and embark on an exciting journey to becoming a successful influencer while skillfully balancing a day job! It could become more than just a side hustle.

FAQs on Balancing Time as an Influencer

Final Thoughts on Balancing Time as an Influencer

Finally, becoming an influencer while maintaining a full-time job is not easy, but it’s not impossible. With the right mindset, dedication, and hard work, anyone can become an influencer in their niche. Following the steps mentioned in this article, you can start building your brand, creating quality content, and engaging with your audience without leaving your day job. 

Consistency and patience are key, and success won’t come overnight. However, perseverance and a willingness to learn and adapt can turn your passion into a successful side hustle or even a full-time career. So don’t let your day job keep you from pursuing your dreams of becoming an influencer. Start taking small steps today and keep pushing forward toward your goals.

This article Ultimate Guide to Balancing Time as an Influencer originally appeared on Rick Orford.