Quitting your job to become an influencer is an idea that appeals to many Americans. — Photography filadendron/Getty Images/AFP Relaxnews
They've taken over social networks, from Instagram to TikTok to LinkedIn. In just a few years, influencers have become the new symbols of success. They've become so popular that many working people are contemplating a career change to become influencers themselves.
The figures speak for themselves. Fifty-four percent of 18-60 year-olds would be willing to quit their current job to become a full-time influencer, if they could afford it, according to a survey by influencer marketing platform IZEA.* Surprisingly, 45-60 year-olds are more likely than their younger counterparts to be tempted by this profession (60.1% vs. 49.6% for 18-29 year-olds).
The appeal of this activity can be explained by the fact that 41% of respondents know someone who earns money by collaborating with brands. This could be a friend, a family member or a coworker. Because, in theory, anyone can become an influencer, whatever their age or social background.
Take, for example, MrBeast. This video-maker began shooting videos in his bedroom, with no startup capital, when he was just 13 years old. Success came his way years later when he launched his philanthropic videos, in which he films himself giving out money to people, from pizza delivery workers to the homeless. The American influencer is now followed by 306 million subscribers on YouTube, making him the world's leading content creator on the platform.
The success of MrBeast, and so many other influencers, is prompting more and more internet users to try their luck on social networks in the hope of gaining notoriety, and above all making money. Indeed, the appeal of the influencer profession is largely based on its lucrative aspect. Thirty-six percent of influencers surveyed by IZEA say they earn between US$100,000 (RM462,700) and US$199,000 (RM920,773) a year. These are astronomical sums when compared to the average American salary, which is just over US$59,000 (RM272,993), according to figures from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (INSEE), quoted by Forbes.
Nevertheless, it's important to bear in mind that influencers' incomes are often difficult to estimate. Some are able to make a living from their online activity (59% of influencers surveyed by IZEA do so full-time), while others pursue this activity alongside another profession or while waiting to find work. After all, the influencer world remains a crowded sector where relatively few achieve major success.
Whatever the case, young and old alike dream of being part of this world. Several surveys, particularly in English-speaking countries, show that the profession of influencer has risen to the top of the list of young people's aspirations. A survey by the Ellie Sparkles Show indicates that one in 10 American children would like to become YouTubers or TikTokers when they grow up.
*This survey was conducted between December 27 and 28, 2023, among 1,217 Americans with an internet connection who regularly use social media. – AFP Relaxnews
