It’s wild, isn’t it? Everyone is living in a time when content creators are building empires, yet some people still dismiss it as “just a hobby.” Oh, you’re streaming to thousands of people? “That’s cute, but what’s your real job?” Do you have an audience that rivals TV networks? “Nice side hustle.”
It’s utterly ridiculous, right? Just imagine more people knowing your name and face than you know, and yet this is considered just some silly pet project for a large chunk of people. Sure, it’s not always stable, but most businesses aren’t, actually some of the biggest businesses in the world aren’t (and some of the largest no longer exist due to failure). So, what makes this so different then?
Seriously, just enough of that! If you want to build up an amazing business, you have to ignore the stigma! For the most part, content creation isn’t some casual thing people do for giggles. It’s a real business, and the numbers prove it. But if you’re tired of rolling your eyes at people who don’t get it, well, just ignore them and keep doing what you do best. So, with tall of that said, here’s how you can not just tell the world you’re legit but make them feel it.
Build a Brand People Remember
If you want people to take you seriously, they need to know what you’re about the second they see your content. That’s what branding does, it sets you apart from the endless scroll of the internet.
So, this might be pretty basic, but you’ll need to start with your visuals. The colours, fonts, and overall vibe should be so consistent that people could recognise your work even without your name on it. You can pretty much think of it like a virtual signature. If someone’s scrolling past your post, your branding should make them pause and think that it’s nice.
But it’s not just about looking good. Your brand should feel like you. What’s your brand? What’s your personality? Are you quirky, professional, edgy, or wholesome, let your personality shine through. People don’t just follow content, they follow the person behind it.
Treat Your Finances Like You’re Running a Fortune 500
Nothing screams “professional” like having your money game sorted. Are you mixing personal spending with your business income? Nope, not a vibe. Get yourself a business account and keep everything separate.
You’ll need to track your earnings, log those expenses, and if maths isn’t your thing, invest in an accountant or some slick accounting software. Yeah, this is a business, and yeah, you’ll need to do taxes. Even if you get gifts from brands or in-kind sponsors, you still need to have them taxed (and people tend to find out the hard way.
Plus, you’ll need to reinvest in your business, it’s basically, a power move. This can mean upgraded camera gear, better lighting, or that game-changing editing software doesn’t just improve your content, but overall, it shows you’re serious about growth.
Network Like Your Career Depends on It
Here’s the deal: who you know matters. That’s why you’ll usually find content creators moving to major cities (most of the US), like LA, NYC, London, UK, and so on. it’s so they can network and get more opportunities. Whether it’s brands, fellow creators, or industry pros, networking can open doors that hard work alone sometimes can’t.
But how do people network though? Well, when it comes to content creation, it’s different than traditional businesses. It’s usually a long-term game, and it goes beyond following people or asking for a LinkedIn connection. Usually, you’ll need to share social media posts, leave meaningful comments, go into their DMs, and be authentic. Well, that’s only one of the ways, but
Start with social media. Share other creators’ posts, leave meaningful comments, and slide into DMs with respect (and purpose). You’re building connections, not pitching your life story. So, this does mean going to offline events too, and yeah, you really need to. For example, try to sign up for panels and workshops.
A lot of creators will go to niche conventions, like VidCon for YouTubers, TwitchCon for streamers, travel blog conventions for well, travel bloggers, and so on. It helps to be prepared for these things, like dressing up nice and ordering some custom business cards that you can pass out. Yeah, these are networking events so you do need to come across as professional!
You Have to Nail Your Online Presence
Sure, your content might be amazing, but if your online presence is a mess, you’re giving off “amateur hour” vibes. While some content creators swear up and down that they don’t need one, yeah you really do. So, with all of that said, having a clean, professional website is a must. It’s like your virtual storefront, a place where people can learn about you, see your portfolio, and get in touch. The same for your social media, everything needs to be nicely polished.
Quality Over Quantity, Every Single Time
Sure, the internet loves consistency, but spamming low-effort content is the quickest way to lose credibility. If people are tuning in, it’s because they see value in what you’re putting out, so give them something worth sticking around for. Maybe it’s beautifully edited videos, insightful blogs, or just genuinely entertaining posts, put care into everything you do. But overall, when you treat your content like it matters, so will everyone else.
Collaborate to Elevate
If you’re working with brands or teaming up with other creators, you’re already sending the message: “People trust me to deliver.” Just think about it this way; brands don’t just hand out deals for fun, rather, they want creators who are dependable and can drive results.
So, all it really takes is just reaching out to companies that align with your niche and pitching yourself like the pro you are. The same can be said for those in your niche as well as other content creators.
Brag About Your Wins
Did you hit a big milestone? Did you get the chance to work with a major brand? Got featured in an article? Well, you should shout it from the rooftops (or at least your socials). It’s proof that you’re crushing it.
