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5 steps to becoming a great influencer

5 steps to becoming a great influencer

Your voice, your blog, your social platforms all make you an influencer. But do you wish you could do it more productively, more effectively…better?

Julie Falconer is a UK-based travel blogger and speaker. She writes an award-winning travel and lifestyle blog, A Lady in London, for which she has traveled to 104 countries and developed a strong social media presence. She is also a public speaker and teaches about blogging and social media in London and throughout the world. Julie recently presented a session at BritMums Live, here are some of her key points.

Julie Falconer
Photo credit: Action Images / Scott Heavey

If you came to my talk at #BML17, you’ll know I was given the humbling topic of “How to be a great influencer”. While I like to think that 15 years of blogging has taught me a lot, I’m not perfect. But in running A Lady in London, teaching about blogging, and writing ebooks on the subject, I’ve learned important lessons. I want to share 5 of the most impactful with you.

1. Outsource things your audience doesn’t see. Don’t outsource yourself

Outsource accounting and coding (unless you blog about those things), and focus on what matters to your audience. Don’t outsource your social media or content creation. People want to engage with you and the content you’ve created, not your assistant, freelancer, or bots.

2. Don’t blame the algorithm. Skill up

Standing out from the crowd means having the right skills. Determine whether you can benefit from enhancing your photography, video, writing, or other skills. You’ll notice things like improving your photography can have a huge impact on your Instagram engagement, thus raising your profile, traffic, and partnership potential.

3. Focus on branding

If you’re not getting traction, it may be an issue of branding. Focus on building your brand with consistent styling, making yourself and your activities more visible by networking, and doing things like interviews that mark you out as an authority in your space.

4. Only work with brands when it’s good for your wallet and your CV

If you’re in a position to be picky, look at both the monetary and non-monetary benefits of a partnership. In addition to generating revenue, a partnership should be good for your CV (i.e. it should involve working with a strong brand or one you value) and your brand.

5. Network…but do it strategically

Showing up to networking events is one thing; networking effectively so tangible results ensue is another. Research ahead of time and make a list of people you want to talk to. Don’t forget to network across the board, including with other influencers, potential partners, fans, and journalists. They can all help you achieve different goals.

A final word

I hope these 5 tips help you on your journey to becoming a great influencer, in whatever way you define that word. Above all, retain your passion. That’s what shines through all your efforts and keeps you, your audience, and your partners feeling great about what you’re doing.

 

What are your biggest challenges or most exciting successes? Tell us what works for you as an influencer!

About

BritMums is the UK’s original collective of lifestyle bloggers and digital influencers, fueling the country’s most influential social content. We lead the online conversation with members who are parent social influencers creating content on topics ranging from food, parenting, travel, politics, style and more.

Sarah Rawlins

Monday 12th of February 2018

Excellent advice! As a business start up I particularly liked the Instagram advice! I fear I have a long way to go.

Emma

Thursday 26th of October 2017

Great tips! I think it’s all about hard work and authenticity / integrity at the end of the day.

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