Getting paid to post TikTok videos isn’t just for Gen Z anymore.
The vast majority of people, from young to old, would consider a career as an influencer if the price was right.
According to a study released by IZEA Worldwide, Inc., a technology, data and services company focused on the creator economy, approximately 54% of social media users aged 18 to 60+ are willing to try out seemingly glamorous jobs.
According to a survey released by IZEA Worldwide, Inc., approximately 54% of social media users aged 18 to 60+ would like to quit their jobs to make a living as an influencer. Getty Images/iStockphoto
While not everyone is willing to switch careers entirely, 64% of that same group said they would accept money to promote brands on their channels.
Gen Z is often criticized by older generations for avoiding work and spending their days on their phones, but maybe we’re just jealous: 60% of social media users ages 45-60 would quit their jobs to become influential, compared with 50% of 18-29 year olds.
But how can you increase your chances of accepting an offer? Research suggests that all you need to do is keep scrolling on your phone.
People who spend more than 5 hours a day on social media are 4.4 times more likely to get paid for their posts.
One possible reason people are logging on and hoping to make some money is that influencers are 1.5 times more likely to be self-employed than average social media users, giving them much more freedom.
Influencers are 1.5 times more likely to be self-employed than heavy social media users, giving them more freedom. Getty Images/iStockphoto
But for most content creators, posting isn’t their primary source of income.
Most influencers (59%) have full-time jobs, and only about half (53%) are paid or receive products from brands for their posts.
“This survey highlights the significant shift in career aspirations driven by a thriving creator economy,” IZEA CEO and founder Ted Murphy said in a statement.
“Almost half of young consumers are willing to leave traditional employment to take on a full-time influencer role, proving the appeal and impact of the industry,” he said.
“And with 26% of social media users already considering themselves an influencer, it’s clear that influencer marketing is more than just a passing fad – it’s a cultural phenomenon that will shape the future of work and commerce.”
