Bterram, Al Koura, Northern Lebanon

Digital influencer: what is it, how much can you earn and how to become one?

                                    

  

With the evolution of the web and the changes in the way people consume information and products, the digital influencer has emerged.

A digital influencer is a content producer who uses his/her channels to influence behavior both online and offline.

The term has become so common that it is likely that even before you started reading this post, you have probably already seen Facebook, YouTube or Instagram profiles where they describe themselves as digital influencers.

But after all, what did these web personalities do to attract so many followers? Is it REALLY possible to use your influence on the Internet to generate income?

                                                                 

                       The Pros and Cons of being a digital influencer

As like any other profession, being a digital influencer also has its pros and cons. We have listed a few below:

Pros:

Mobility

One of the greatest advantages for those who work online is the possibility of working remotely, whether at home, in traffic or anywhere in the world. All you need is an internet connection, a smartphone, a camera and/or laptop to be connected to all of your followers.

Editorial freedom

Another positive factor of being an influencer is that they can produce the content they want to about subjects in which they have most interest, except in cases where this editorial freedom is negotiated with the company that hired the service.

Access to experiences

Nowadays, influencers are one of the most sought after professionals to endorse products and services. Because of this they obtain certain contractual advantages that go beyond their fee, such as trips, access to events and even products.

This type of reward is common especially at the beginning when the influencer still hasn’t built up its expertise in that niche, and exchange his/her influence for the advertiser’s products or services, the so called barter.

Flexible schedule

Since most of the influencer’s work can be done at home, he/she also has more freedom to organize his/her schedule and divide his/her day between personal and professional appointments.

But it is important to pay attention to this point and not be too flexible with your hours, because you will need to constantly produce content for your channels if you wish to keep your audience engaged.

Cons:

Spending less time with your family

As demand for your work increases, you might have to take a few trips and attend events to promote products and services, which means spending more time away from home. This can be a major setback for those who are very attached to their family, especially for influencers who have children.

But don’t get discouraged! Think of it this way: the more value you generate for the companies who hire your services, the easier it will be to negotiate conditions.

Lack of Privacy

Because of overexposure many followers feel as if they knew you and might become invasive during your moments of leisure. It is common for these people to want to take a selfie with those they follow on social networks, but it is important to establish limits to preserve your privacy and those who are with you.

Haters

Haters are users whose greatest hobby is visiting profiles of well-known people to make mean comments. According to the number of comments this person makes, and the level of the offense, the best thing to do is to ignore them.

In cases of bigoted comments or threats to your safety, print the posts and call the police department specialized in virtual crimes.

Companies reneging on payment

The notoriety of influencers does not make them immune to people and companies that default on what was agreed. Therefore, before entering a partnership, search for information on the advertiser, check customer comments and whenever possible, formalize your agreement in a service contract.

If you don’t have a contract, make sure you document the emails and messages you exchange with the company.

How much does a digital influencer make?

But after all, how much does a digital influencer make?

There isn’t a precise number; it all depends on the number of followers you have on your social networks.

However, there are a few studies that show the average amount these professionals are paid per partnership. 

With this information in hand, you can decide if leaving your conventional job to dedicate more time to the internet and your followers is worthwhile.