So you’ve started posting on Instagram and have built an audience. Now you want to turn that side hustle into your full-time gig.

Follow these 7 steps to make Instagram your full-time job…

INVEST TIME IN YOUR CONTENT CREATION

If you’re serious about making Instagram your full-time job, you need to treat it like a job. Be prepared to work hard, organize your time and money to make sure you’re creating the highest-quality content possible that provides value to your audience and stands out from the crowd.

MAKE YOUR PROFILE APPEALING TO BRANDS

Attract brands to work with you by optimizing your profile and polishing your personal brand. Make sure you have a creator account, Include keywords from your niche in your name and bio, include your contact e-mail in your bio, make sure your story highlights are up to date to best represent you, and your pinned posts show off the best of your content.

CONTACT BRANDS FOR COLLABORATIONS

Don't wait around for brands to find you. Make a list of brands in your niche that work with smaller creators and reach out to them with ideas for a partnership. Brand collaborations can be in the form of a sponsored post, or affiliate marketing.

ENABLE MONETIZATION FEATURES 

Instagram has a host of monetization features that can help you make money from your audience. These include Subscriptions for exclusive content, earning “Bonuses” with Reels Play, earning “Gifts” on Reels, and earning “Badges” on livestreams.

SELL YOUR OWN DIGITAL PRODUCTS

Selling digital products can be great for micro creators. Products could include a digital course on something you’re an expert in, a paid subscription newsletter, Lightroom presets, or a mobile app.

SELL YOUR OWN PHYSICAL PRODUCTS

Physical products have a higher start-up cost, but don’t let that scare you. Creating merchandise or starting your own brand could be the perfect option for you if your audience is highly engaged and you select the right product that fits your niche.

BE PREPARED TO FAIL

You may hear more 'no' than 'yes' during this journey, but don’t get discouraged. Determination is key.

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