Terms
Over 50 million people believe themselves influencers or digital creators
It may feel like, everywhere you turn there are digital artists, social media professionals and influential people. That's true! More than 50 million individuals worldwide consider themselves to be influencers or digital creators , according to Influencer Marketing Hub which also estimates that the market for influencer marketing will grow to approximately $21 billion in 2023.
The terms "digital creators or influencers' might seem interchangeable, they're different. In this guide we'll look at the definition of an online creator, and how it is different in comparison to an influencer and how to make an influencer.
The definition: What exactly is digital creation?
Digital creators are those who makes online content for different platforms. It could be social media, blogs, podcasts, or videos. They create and share the content that's authentic to their company and image, and typically target a certain market or segment they are targeting.
A digital creator is someone who is determined on creating the community of their people who follow them, by engaging with their audience and sharing their special perspective on topics.
How is a digital creator different from an influencer?
Although there's a certain amount of overlap between an influencer and creators but there are some major distinctions. A person who is an influencer enjoys a huge number of followers on social mediatypically in the hundreds of thousands or even millions -- and frequently utilizes that audience to advertise products or services.
These companies typically collaborate in partnership with companies to develop sponsored content, and their revenue is usually linked to the amount of followers they have.
Creators, on the other hand tends to create original content exclusively for them and their personal brand. Although they can also collaborate with companies, their main priority is creating content that appeals to their audience. Creators' income may be earned from many sources, such as the sponsorship of a brand, membership fees, sales or advertising income.
What can you do to become a digital creator
The process of becoming a digital creator cannot be achieved overnight. It requires time, energy, and commitment to build a brand that is successful. Here are some steps that you could take to get started:
Find your niche
The first step in becoming a digital creator is to discover your passion. What are you passionate about? What perspective do you have that is unique to bring to the conversation? What topics can you add significant value to?
As a digital creator, your niche should be something that you are knowledgeable about like food, for instance.
Choose one that interests you in and know about and has a large audience. Don't be afraid to make your niche more specific. In various manners, the more specific your field, the more likely you will stand out in a highly competitive market.
Develop your image
When you've discovered your field of interest then it's time to begin creating your own personal brand. This includes creating a brand name as well as a logo and style that is in line with your niche and appeals to your audience.
Naturally, the name could be your name or nickname, but it will most be helpful to have a name that is unique or memorable. You'll also want to create social media accounts and a website to showcase your content and engage with your followers.
Be active and engage
The heart of being an online creator is in fact, making! A majority of content is digital and could include videos, blog posts or social media content or podcasts. Your content should reflect your brand and your business and offer value for your customers.
Engaging with your followers or your members is crucial to building a successful brand. That means responding to messages, DMs, and emails and instilling an atmosphere of belonging around your company. You may also want to think about hosting live Q&A sessions or meetups to engage with your customers in person.
Skills you need to be an online creator
Becoming a digital creator requires many skills. it is not enough to be artistic and imaginative and possess a keen understanding about your area of expertise The most effective creators are focused entrepreneurs and business people with clear strategies for content and communication.
Qe7BmtM66wVeGytug54L There are a lot of skills for being a digital artist including a unique presence in front of the camera
Here are a few of the most important skills you need to be a digital creator:
Creativity
Being a digital artist it is essential to think creatively in everything that you do. The hint is in the title! Creativity is the ability to come up with fresh ideas for content, speaking well on camera if you are making video, creating eye-catching visuals - including thumbnails for videos, as well as appealing photos on Instagram.
Also, you'll need to be always looking for new ways to connect with your viewers, such as with Ask Me Anythings (AMAs) or sharing behind-the-scenes videos.
Communication
It is crucial to communicate clearly when building a brand and therefore when progressing through your career as a digital creator. It is essential to clearly communicate your ideas and your brand's message to the people you want to reach, so you'll require strong interpersonal skills as well as a clear mind as well as speaking.
A more professional approach to communication is important for professionals who are digital creators as you'll likely be attending discussions with representatives from brands and organizations looking to partner alongside you or to sponsor your content along in meetings with other creators who you wish to collaborate with. Getting your point across concisely and with a sense of fairness is vital.
Business sense
As above, having discussions with fellow creators requires you to know how collaborative projects can benefit you and everyone involved.
Do you want to connect with new audiences? Bring back the excitement with less engaged members? Spark a debate? Perhaps encourage the sale of some product? These all require smart positioning of your brand, understanding your USP inside-out, and an ability to promote - both ideas and products.
Some examples of digital creators that have been successful
Rhett Link and HTML0: Link: Rhett McLaughlin and Charles Lincoln 'Link' Neal III - just named Rhett and Link - have been together since 2006. They have created "Good Mythical Morning", a YouTube comedy channel that discusses pop culture and food and also posts frequently on social networks, as well as hosting their own podcast, the Ear Biscuits podcast.
Kevin Smith: Comedy, actor, film maker as well as a writer Kevin Smith got his big break when he directed, and starred in 'Clerks'. Kevin Smith went on to develop the iconic character Jay and Silent Bob with Jason Mewes. He is now a well-known YouTuber, author and the host of numerous programs on his SModcast Podcast Network. These include Fatman Beyond and Hollywood Babble-On.
Molly Baz Author, recipe creator, and food stylist, Molly Baz began her digital-creative career at Bon Appetit magazine, where she developed and tested recipes, wrote articles, and starred in videos on the company's YouTube channel. She has since launched her own cooking brand, mollybaz.com with the social media platform and YouTube channel.
Scott Aukerman The actor, comedian and writer is best-known as the founder and host of the Comedy Bang! Bang! podcast. He created and starred in the TV show 'Between 2 Ferns with Zach Galifianakis' and has been featured in TV shows like Parks and Recreation. He founded the Earwolf podcast and received the award twice. Primetime Emmy Awards.
Jacques Pepin: There's no need to be young to become an artist in the digital realm! Jacques Pepin has been cooking professionally for a long time. His latest venture, the Jacques Pepin Foundation video recipe book, is a combination of cookbook and video membership service, allowing viewers to see famous chefs prepare meals at their homes, and print out the recipes if you're looking to learn.
Conclusion
The role of a digital creator is not just about creating content, it's about building your brand, and engaging your community or members. While it takes the time and energy to create a successful brand, it's a rewarding job that lets you impart your unique insight to all of the world.
Through identifying your area of expertise, building your brand, making engaging content, as well as engaging with your followers, you can become a successful digital creator!