What It Takes To Be An Influencer

So you don’t have Kylie-level clout yet, but you do have at least one social media account, right? Then you can turn your casual online presence into a side hustle… or even a lucrative career (some influencers rake in upward of Rs. 175,503,510 per year!). It takes more work than slapping a filter on a cute #Lewk , but with a little grit and this pro guide, you can learn to make bank.

- Jessica Goodman

STEP ONE

Build Your Brand

PICK A NICHE

Start by asking yourself What do I love to do and can it be documented in new ways? For example, Julie Dastine (64,000 followers, @JayHairBigga) is a hairstylist who shares her work on Instagram. “Almost all my clients hear about me through social media,” she says. Her focus on natural hair is key. “The most successful influencers own a specific category,” says Amber Venz Box (90,000 followers, @VenzEdits), president and co-founder of the influencer network and platform RewardStyle. For example, if you love cocktails, post about whiskey drinks versus just mixology.

USE WHAT YOU HAVE

No need to start new accounts. Just clean up your Insta, YouTube, Pinterest, Facebook, and/or Twitter by deleting old posts that don’t mesh with your new jam. Make your handle your full name or your new brand’s name— e.g., set decorator Cynthia Moreno (60,000 followers, @ HotPink Pineapples) chose one that reflects her account’s colorful vibe. Then infuse your bio with clear words about your new venture. Monique Doughty’s (112,000 followers, @IAmNurseMo) reads, “Critical Care Travel Nurse Influencer & Motivational Speaker.”

MAKE IT LEGIT