Written by: Natasha Zo, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Have you heard that modern-day currency is attention? Influence equals dollars and those with a loyal following prove it again and again by demanding the advertising check which way exceeds those of the most glamorous magazines. Did you know that for example, Ariana Grande and Christiano Ronaldo charge nearly a million USD for ads in their Instagram? And the good news is that the world of influence is no longer exclusive to celebrities, politicians, and sports stars. People are turning to their favorite social media influencers whenever they want to learn something new, make a purchasing decision, or need advice on a certain topic. And that’s your cue as an expert!
I strongly believe influence currency is here to stay, and therefore, this is an investment that would pay off big. Even if all you got to invest is one hour per week:
1. Choose a social media platform and post content on a consistent basis
First, select at least one major social media platform and post content consistently. Many would advise finding out where your core audience spends most of their time, however, my advice is - go with the platform that you already know best. You save so much time on learning new features. Personally, I’m an Instagram addict, I naturally go there when I have a break. But since I have chosen Insta as my core platform, this time is never wasted: I learn trends, engage with my potential audience, and get a reminder to post.
The time it takes: 15 - 30 minutes, or no additional time at all if you start using time you already spent on a platform to post and engage, not just scroll!
2. Collaborate with others in your niche
One of the best ways to build influence is to collaborate with others and companies who are in the same industry as you or cater to a similar audience or target market. Reach out to micro and macro-influencers and ask if they’d be willing to participate in a product giveaway, host a live conversation or an interview together, or anything that could promote both of your businesses.
For example, if you are a fitness influencer who focuses on helping moms get fit after childbirth. You could try to partner up with a nutritionist who specializes in teaching expectant mothers how to eat healthy during their pregnancy. This type of cross-promotion would introduce your brand to the other person’s loyal followers who may be interested in buying your products or services.
The time it takes: 15 - 30 minutes.
3. Generate publicity for your brand by contributing to media outlets
Many blogs, newspapers, and magazines need a steady stream of content to stay relevant. One of the best-kept secrets is that you can write for them and generate free publicity for your business all at the same time!
Simply search for the most widely circulated media platforms in your industry and contact them to see if they allow outside contributors. If they accept you into the program, you’ll gain access to their community of loyal followers. The Brainz magazine contributor program allows people to contribute written content on various important topics including leadership, lifestyle, innovation, and performance.
The time it takes: from 10 to 30 minutes.
4. Invest in high-quality graphics and visuals
In 2021 even cats get professional photoshoots not to mention someone, who, just like you is trying to build their online presence. If you are just at the beginning of your career, it might be hard to justify investing in a professional photoshoot; however, this truly is an investment that would pay off in the long run. Think about it like this: You know that meeting someone new in person our brain automatically looks for “trust” signals - a friendly smile, a professional-looking outfit, open gestures. Well, in the online world leads and potential customers are going to first “meet” you through your visuals. Just one professional photoshoot will last you a long time as photos can be reused from your website to your social media and different product kits.
There is another issue that is stopping many new entrepreneurs from investing in a brand shoot. If you have never been in front of a camera, it might be quite challenging to overcome the awkward feelings, I get it. Remember, that a good photographer will not only “click” the button. Their job is also to make you feel relaxed and comfortable - because that’s when the best pictures come out! Ask their previous clients for how the shoot felt and look not only for photographers with beautiful portfolios but for fun personalities who would make you feel comfortable and maybe laugh a little.
The time it takes: 2-3 hours, but only once!
5. Practice Giving When You Don’t Expect Anything in Return
What are the brands, events, and people in your life that you absolutely love? I love sharing about a local charity in Bali that I got introduced to on my last visit. I love hearing and sharing about the projects my friends are doing, and yes, I’ve also tagged a certain ice cream shop way more than once on my social media.
Sure, influencers are paid to review things and places and you might not be there yet. It does not mean you should avoid doing that until someone starts offering money for your opinion. Love something? Talk about it and tag them. It might be that place where you buy doughnuts in the morning or a great podcast you enjoy listening to. They may reciprocate, and if it’s a big brand you may get a boost.
One of my clients has an Instagram account that is about 100 times the size of mine. Every time my company delivers a great result for them, I share it on my Insta-story (see point 3). She never fails to share it back and apart from those extra views that come from her repost, I just get that warm fuzzy feeling inside.
However, don’t get discouraged if you don’t get a mention in return. Sharing what you love helps your followers see you as a well-rounded, real person. Remember, people connect with real people, not polished images.
The time it takes: from 30 seconds to 10 minutes.
Do you have ideas on how to build your brand online in under an hour per week? Please share your tips and suggestions for other readers below!
Natasha Zo, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Natasha Zo is a former journalist from Siberia turned international media relations specialist. She is a founder of Cosa Famosa media - a boutique PR agency on a mission to amplify messages of conscious leaders, health, and wellness entrepreneurs through earned media. Known for her connector skills, she guided a number of authors to Amazon bestseller status, booked national TV, top-tier media, and over 400 podcast interviews.
