Paid content creation is a great way to make money whilst doing something that you love. Whether it’s fashion, travel, fitness, video gaming or something else entirely, turning your hobby into a career has never been so easy. One way to start earning is through social media. Not only can you build your audience this way, but you can also make big bucks for doing so. Best of all, you don’t always need thousands of followers to get started. It just takes passion, enthusiasm, and a bit of know-how.
There is an abundance of ways to make money online and it can often feel a bit overwhelming. To save time and ease the pressure, I have put together a list of over 100 platforms that pay.
In the meantime, we have rounded up a few favorites to get you started.
If you already have a good following on Instagram, then you are well on your way to earning some dollar. One option is to team up with a brand to create sponsored posts that promote their product or service. Influencers around the globe are getting paid to promote brands this way. My advice? Stay true to yourself and work with organizations that hold the same values as you. Otherwise, go for it. When sponsored posts are done correctly, you can make a lot of money.
Another way that content creators make money on Instagram is by monetizing IGTV videos with ads. The only requirements are that the video runs for more than two minutes, and you have the rights to any music that you use.
If you prefer to have full ownership over your content, live badges are a more recent feature of the social media platform. During a live stream, viewers can now purchase a badge to show their appreciation. The money then goes straight into the influencer’s pocket, almost like a tip. This option is a great way to make money without the use of ads and sponsored posts.
My Tips: Have offers you can package, optimize your profile for search ability and use linktree to share multiple links from your bio.
TikTok
TikTok is a fun and rewarding way to get paid for content creation. Whether you’re surfing the waves, busting out some dance moves, or offering useful tips and advice, Tik Tok is a brilliant way to engage your audience.
To get paid on TikTok, you will need at least 10,000 authentic followers and 100,000 video reviews within the last 30 days. If you tick these two boxes, you may be eligible for the Creator Fund providing that your content follows the rules and guidelines set by the platform. The amount of money you earn depends on a variety of factors including the number of views and levels of engagement. The cash is then paid into your chosen bank account each month. To apply for the Creator Fund, go into your settings and select Creator Tools. It really is that simple.
My tips: Post consistently and engage with other accounts to build up your followers. Use trending sounds.
Clubhouse
Clubhouse is a cutting-edge audio app where users can listen to and take part in various discussions called ‘rooms’. For influencers, it can be a great networking tool and a fantastic way to share your expertise. The Creators First Accelerator Program enables you to make money via donations. As users listen to your content, they can show their appreciation by sending you money. The best part is that 100% of the fees go straight to your pocket. In Clubhouse, you don’t need a big following to get started and you can quickly build strong relationships with your audience.
My tips: Host your own rooms and don’t be afraid to speak up in other rooms. Accept all your invites to speak in other rooms.
YouTube
With more than 2 billion active users per month, it’s safe to say that YouTube is a powerful digital marketing tool. Not only can it be used to grow your audience and increase exposure, but it can also generate huge profits.
Attach ads to your footage using Google Adsense or become a YouTube partner to receive exclusive rewards. YouTube also pays creators with more than 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 of watched hours per year. On top of that, online video creation is a great way to promote your business and generate click-throughs to your website.
Of course, with so much content available, YouTube is very competitive. If you’re first starting out, it can be quite difficult to secure those subscriptions. Once you have built your audience, though, this platform will offer some great returns.
My tips: Build a content schedule and stick to it. Keep creating content and posting regularly.
Twitch
Twitch is a live streaming platform that offers tons of creative content. Originally used by video gamers, it now offers a far wider reach with around 31 million users per day. There are multiple ways to make money on Twitch, making it a popular choice amongst influencers and those starting out.
Along with donations, paid subscriptions and ad kickbacks, users can also pay creators via Twitch Bits. Twitch Bits is an internal currency that can be used by viewers to show their support for creators. Users purchase Bits with real money and spend them in live chats across the website. While one bit is only worth around $0.01, Twitch users tend to be very generous with their spending especially if they like your content.
My tips: Work on your followers. Let your followers on your other social channels know about your twitch channel and engage with your audience during your live streams.
Next Steps
Now you know what it takes to monetize your content, it’s time to start creating. Focus on one or two platforms that pay influencers and look at how you can effectively engage your audience. Depending on the size of your audience and the type of platform you choose, it may take a while to start earning money. Have patience and trust your abilities.
Avoid disappointment by setting manageable targets. Perhaps you want to reach a certain number of followers before you get paid or maybe you’d like to earn your first $100 this week. Whatever it is, be realistic, keep it simple and have fun!
