From Beauty Blogger To Beauty Influencer: Top Tips
Before the pandemic, I’d often attend events, trade shows and seminars at Olympia London. For a beauty lover like myself, it was fantastic to be in a place where I could explore brands and test out products.
In the past, I attended the Beauty Influencer Awards, and the stage played host to a panel of the top individuals in the industry who work in different roles (marketing, PR, social media, blogging and journalism) who had their own tips to share. As a beauty blogger and digital content writer, I am always trying to up my game, so it's great to receive advice from people who work in the digital media industry.
I made sure to take notes, and here they are! Here are the top tips for beauty bloggers who are looking to become successful influencers.
From beauty blogger to beauty influencer: top tips
Be honest
Always be true to yourself. It is better to be genuine, authentic and real.
Grow organically
Don't buy followers! Honestly, this is such a contentious issue in the influencer world. Nothing good can come out of buying followers. It's best to grow naturally and nurture your loyal following. It makes sense to have 1000 real followers instead of 15,000 fake followers. People are starting to wise up to this and it doesn't look good on you at all.
Plus, it's not all about the numbers - it's about engagement. It's important to create interesting, engaging, entertaining and shareable content. Also, it's important to be active on social media and keep your digital platform ticking over regularly with fresh content.
Be professional
Keep it classy! When you have a platform, you have to take responsibility for that and you have to be aware of how you're coming across. Don’t get involved in social media ‘beef’ or drama. I think in life, it's best to pick and choose your battles wisely and it's best not to get involved in certain things. Online and offline, I choose peace instead of chaos.
I also think it's important to use your platform responsibly and use it as a force for good. I sometimes like to Tweet about the important issues in the world because that's just who I am, and I see no point in staying silent. Plus, it's important for me to be authentic at all times (see first point).
Also, acting professionally is not just important on social media. It's also important when you interact with others online and offline. Approach emails and brand collaborations and attend events in a professional manner.
Keep it consistent
Always keep your blog, vlog and social media channels up to date and consistent.
Know your audience
Who are you writing for? What are your demographics? What are your readers' interests? Do you know your buyer personas? It always helps to know your audience so that you can tailor your content accordingly in a way that keeps your readers/viewers connected.
Write/create quality content
This goes without saying. Quality content is key to being a better blogger/influencer.
Establish your boundaries when working with brands and PRs
Mutual understanding is very important. You need to communicate effectively and make things clear. Clearly state your expectations (i.e. content delivery and payment/compensation) and review the brief. It normally helps to have a disclaimer/disclosure policy or terms and conditions.
Find your USP
The influencer market is saturated. What makes you special and unique in comparison to everyone else? Establish that and develop your brand image.
You need to be an expert at your passion
Okay, you don't need special credentials, but you do need to let your enthusiasm shine through and hone in on your expertise. This is what brands are looking for.
You can't plan everything
I used to put so much pressure on myself to blog all the time, but that’s a one-way ticket to killing your passion and forgetting the reason why you started in the first place. Take your blogging journey as it comes. Nothing is perfect.
Take advantage of the opportunities that come your way
I feel so grateful and privileged to have received blogging opportunities over the last few years. Take advantage of the opportunities that come your way but remember, if it's not the right fit then don't be afraid to turn it down.