Quitting your '9 to 5' job to become an influencer and having 100K followers is almost like living a dream life. You may believe that becoming an influencer is simple because we all have social media accounts, but don't quit your job before you understand the demands of the influencer industry.
Between the unexpected resignation, job search, and layoffs, there have been numerous opportunities for people to pursue their side hustles. Well, pursuing an influencer career does sound appealing these days, especially with so many influencers making a name for themselves. After all, why dance to the tune of someone else when you can be your own boss?
However, there is more to being an influencer than meets the eye. Let's dig a little deeper into this:
1. Uncertainty vs. Stability
A 9 to 5 job provides a steady income and the assurance that your bank account will ring on the first of every month. This allows you to plan your finances more precisely and achieve financial stability and independence.
Being an influencer entails a great deal of risk. There may be windfalls, tons of paid promotions, and a lack of income at the same time. It's also worth noting that you can only begin negotiating deals once you've carved out a niche and gained a certain number of supporters.
2. Time Requirements
In comparison, setting boundaries is easier in a full-time position. You leave work and work-related stress at five o'clock and return home to spend quality time with your family.
Being an influencer is a unique type of hustle. Especially early on, when you're also your copywriter, graphic designer, social media manager, and deal negotiator. It can be exhausting, and you must be prepared to work nonstop. However, once you get the hang of it, the work is quite adaptable. You can be whoever, whenever, and wherever you want.
3. Genuineness
Your tasks at work must be completed exactly as they should be. There is little room to do things your way. However, the influencer life necessitates doing what you enjoy. You can share your enthusiasm for any of your (even niche) interests with a specific type of target audience that shares your interests!
4. Establishing Contacts
In your position, your social circles are typically confined to people from the same industry, with little variation. But being an influencer entails meeting people from all walks of life! It is truly empowering and inspirational to build and grow a diverse community. It's the best feeling in the world to know that you're genuinely able to help people with your content.
On the surface, it may appear that some of the top influencers live a luxurious lifestyle and have access to the biggest brands approaching them, but there is a lot that has gone into getting to that point.
These are a few comparisons of the two work models. There are advantages and disadvantages to being both, but if you're here, you've already decided.
Jobcurators wishes you all the best on your journey, whatever it may be! If you are still working a '9 to 5' job but want to change, you can register on Jobcurators and look for jobs that suit you.