How I Created a 6 Figure Business as an Influencer/Blogger

At the beginning of 2021, I decided to get organized and really focused on my influencing/blogging business. I’m a former teacher, so my mindset was that I needed to create a strategy and plan so I could achieve my goals. I’m definitely someone that dreams big so I decided that I wanted to make $100,000 this year. I was a little nervous about setting a goal that high because prior to this year, I made less than $13k. Nonetheless, I was very confident about my work ethic, my strategy, and I had God on my side. So here are the details on how I made over 90k in one year as an influencer/blogger

1. Create Monthly Income Goals

I created monthly goals. Setting a high goal of making 100,000 in a year can definitely be overwhelming and intimidating. That’s why it’s important to set monthly goals. So I knew if I made at least 10k every month then I would reach my year end goal. Looking back, there were months when I made less than 6k and other months when I made over 15k. As an influencer/blogger it’s important to understand that you’re going to have some months that are a bit slower and other months that are busy and you exceed your monthly income goals. 

2. Use Google Docs 

I realized that prior to this year, I was not treating my influencer/blogging business like a legit business. I would get campaigns and I did not have any type of system of how I was tracking my partnerships. So at the beginning of this year, I started a simple google doc sheet every month that outlines basic details every time I signed a contract for a partnership. I created monthly google docs where I added the brand name, scope of work, and compensations for reach partnership. Then at the end of each month I calculate the total income I made for that month. 

3. Use Influencer Platforms

Influencer platforms are great for new influencers/bloggers as well as the more established influencer/blogger. Check out my blog post on 8 Influencer Platforms for Beginners. I constantly check several influencer platforms every week. Remember, that you can negotiate rates, payment terms, and other details on some of the influencer platforms. I’ve been able to land high 4 figure brand deals, get PR trips, and so many other amazing opportunities on the influencer platforms. So check those platforms consistently and apply to all the campaigns that align. 

4. Create a Content Schedule

Creating a content schedule can be very helpful with staying consistent. I like to shoot my content and write potential captions every weekend. Then I typically post Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. A lack of consistency can keep you from getting partnerships. I remember when I went on my first PR trip, I asked the PR lady how they found me. I remember her saying that they had someone from their social media team watch my stories and posts for about a month before they decided to reach out to me. She said they loved how engaged and consistent I was with my audience. So, create a content schedule that’s going to work for you. The most important thing is that you remain consistent with your schedule. 

6. Stay Connected with PR Agencies & Brands

This was a game changer for me. I started reaching out to PR agencies and brands that I’ve worked with in the past. I would simply email them every couple months and ask if they have any partnerships that align. Stay in contact with PR agencies and brands you’ve worked with. Here’s an example

Hello ___

I hope all is well! I enjoyed working with you and the brand on the back to school campaign. I wanted to reach out to see if you have any holiday campaigns that align. I’m in the process of creating some fun holiday and winter content and I would love to work together again.

7.Network with Blogger Friends

I’ve learned early on that staying connected with influencer/blogger friends is important. I have about 3-4 close influencer/blogger friends that I speak to on a regular basis. We chat about all things blogging, influencing, content creating, and just daily life. Staying connected with influencer/blogger friends helps you stay in the loop. Also, create a strategy with your influencer/blogger friends where you all do monthly giveaways, follow Friday’s, monthly meetups, and discuss other creative ideas to keep your audience engaged. 

8. Get a Blog or Youtube

When I started getting consistent with my blog, I had so many more brands reach out to me. Oftentimes, PR agencies and brands want to know that you have more than just Instagram. It’s also an easy way to boost income for a partnership. For example, if a brand reaches out to me and asks for an instagram post, I can easily ask the brand if they’re also looking for a blog post. Then I can give them my rates for the additional blog post. Also, we know that instagram is constantly making changes, so we have to make sure we have another platform where we can earn income. 

9. IG and Blog Audit

I highly recommend getting someone that’s experienced to do a quick IG audit and blog audit. In any profession you typically have an audit of your work performance so that you can know what you need to improve. Getting other experienced people to view your page and give you some quick tips can improve your influening/blogging business.

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I hope this blog post provided some inspiration on how you too can reach your income goals!

XO, 

Ashley