Influencers or content creators: expert reveals how to actually make money via social media

Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, and for many, including former ad agency creatives, being an influencer or content creator is no longer just a hobby but a legitimate career. Platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram offer monetization opportunities, allowing creators to earn through ad revenue, brand partnerships, and subscriber-based models.

While the content creator lifestyle may seem glamorous, the journey to success is far from easy, and making a consistent income through social media remains a challenge. To shed light on this, experts at influencer marketing agency Socially Powerful have compiled a guide outlining the steps aspiring creators need to take, explaining how the industry works, and the complexities involved in building a sustainable career.

Build your following across multiple platforms
Success in content creation isn’t limited to just one platform. It’s vital to expand your presence across TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and others to maximize visibility and diversify your income streams. Relying on just one platform puts creators at risk of losing exposure due to changes in algorithms or platform policies. By growing a following on multiple platforms, you not only increase your audience reach but also protect yourself from potential setbacks that may arise if one platform fails to perform as expected.

Study platform guidelines and follow best practices
Each platform has its own rules for content creation and monetization, and understanding these guidelines is essential. For example, TikTok’s Creator Rewards Program emphasizes the importance of producing high-quality, original videos that are at least 60 seconds long. The program rewards creators based on factors like originality, audience engagement, and play duration​. Learning the specific requirements of each platform will help creators optimize their content and increase their chances of success. Without following the proper guidelines, creators risk missing out on monetization opportunities or even having their content demoted by algorithms.

Continuously create relevant, high-quality content
Consistency is key to building and maintaining an engaged audience. To grow a loyal fan base, creators need to produce content that is relevant to current trends, valuable, and entertaining. Experimenting with new ideas while maintaining high production standards keeps audiences engaged and helps creators stand out in an increasingly saturated market. Platforms like TikTok and YouTube also reward regular posting and high-quality content with better algorithmic visibility, which in turn helps increase viewership and monetization potential.

Don’t obsess over going viral
The idea of going viral can be tempting, but it shouldn’t be your main focus. Chasing viral success often leads to burnout and content that doesn’t authentically represent your brand or voice. Instead, focus on steady growth by building a loyal audience that values your unique perspective. Viral moments can happen unexpectedly, but long-term success comes from consistent quality, not chasing trends. Cultivating meaningful engagement with your followers often proves to be more valuable than momentary popularity.

Don’t give up
The road to becoming a successful content creator is filled with challenges, including slow periods of growth, algorithm changes, and stiff competition. Many creators may face setbacks that make it difficult to stay motivated, but persistence is crucial. Consistent effort, coupled with the ability to adapt to changing trends and feedback, is often what separates successful influencers from those who fall short. Patience and determination are essential, especially in a career that relies heavily on audience engagement and platform dynamics. Remember, building a lasting presence on social media takes time, and while the process can be difficult, creators who stick with it are more likely to achieve long-term success.