Road to Influence: The Journey to Becoming an Expert Influencer

Being an influencer is more than just posting memes and videos, this article can outline how you can rise to the top with your personal expert influence.

In the words of renowned digital marketer Neil Patel, “Influence isn’t just having a lot of followers. It’s all about spreading ideas and creating value.”

An influencer is an individual who leverages their online presence to sway their followers’ purchasing decisions or opinions through their authority, knowledge, position, or relationship with their audience.

Understanding Your Niche

Every successful influencer has a specific area they are known for?—?their niche. Fitness guru Kayla Itsines, for instance, carved out a niche in fitness, particularly home workouts. Her niche choice made her an authoritative figure in the industry. To find your niche, list down your passions and expertise, and identify the intersection where you can provide unique value.

Building Authentic Connections

Authenticity is the cornerstone of any influencer’s success. As social media guru Gary Vaynerchuk rightly said, “Authenticity is your most precious commodity as a leader.” Influencers aren’t just marketing machines; they are relatable individuals who engage with their followers. To build authentic connections, try responding to comments, sending personalized messages, or hosting Q&A sessions on your platform.

Mastering Content Creation

Consistency and quality are key in content creation. Take, for instance, fashion influencer Chiara Ferragni, known for her mix of high-fashion and street-style photos. To master content creation, consider setting up a content calendar, learn basic editing skills, and experiment with various content formats?—?photos, videos, blogs, podcasts?—?to see what resonates with your audience.

Monetizing Your Influence

Successful influencers often have multiple revenue streams?—?brand partnerships, affiliate marketing, sponsored content, etc. A classic example is influencer-turned-entrepreneur Huda Kattan, who successfully leveraged her beauty blogging influence to launch her own cosmetic line, Huda Beauty. To monetize your influence, start by reaching out to brands that align with your niche, or set up an affiliate marketing account.

Facing Challenges and Staying Relevant

Being an influencer comes with its own set of challenges?—?dealing with criticism, maintaining mental health, and keeping up with the ever-evolving social media landscape. As influencer and content creator Aimee Song states, “The biggest challenge is staying authentic while meeting the demands of the industry.” To manage these challenges, consider scheduling digital detox days for mental health, and regularly educating yourself about the latest social media features and trends.

Becoming an influencer is a journey that requires authenticity, creativity, resilience, and continuous learning. As author and thought leader Simon Sinek once said, “Influence is not about being right; it’s about being a student.” Remember, the journey to becoming an influencer is not a sprint, but a marathon. Happy influencing!

Talk to Dr. Tami Patzer at tamisocialmedia@gmail.com

Meet Tami Patzer

Want to keep up with Ask Tami? Subscribe here to get a notice each time I post new content for you

Become a member of Medium here

Tamara “Tami” Patzer is the creator of the Authority Footprint Formula and the creator/producer of Beyond of the Best Seller Marketing System.

She helps her clients share their big messages and big missions via book publishing, social media, and mass media exposure to help them have more impact, influence, and income.

She is the creator of the Daily Success® Institute and regularly is a featured guest on podcasts, radio shows, and TV news including ABC, NBC, CBS, CW, and Fox.

Tami Patzer is the creator and producer of the Daily Success Media Network featuring seven podcasts including Women Innovators, The Daily Success Show, and The Thought Leaders Show. She also is the publisher of international best sellers Beyond the Best Seller and Women Innovators.

Tami is known for her insight into authority marketing and online visibility as well as an educator and advocate for transformational leaders who want to be seen, heard, and found, so that they can make a huge impact, have more influence, and more income.

Her latest project is the Authority Footprint Founders Club. She is the News Category Director at Podcast Magazine and a popular host and guest on many podcasts. Tamara Patzer is a former editor and a member of the Pulitzer-prize nominated Sun Coast Media Group news team for coverage of Hurricane Charley. She is the creator of Florida Gulf Coast University’s Social Media Certification program and is a frequent social media expert guest on TV news programs across the nation.