This is how social media can help you make a living

The spike in the rate of unemployment in Nigeria has made social media a haven for many young people who are seeking alternative means of livelihood. It has become a space where people can exhibit their talent and creativity to a wider audience, and in turn, make a living. Social media has leveled the playing field, allowing anyone with access to the internet to create and promote their products and services without necessarily having to go through the conventional route of job hunting. If you are unsure of how this works, see the different strategies that people are using to create opportunities for themselves in the digital space. 

E-commerce Platforms

Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and even Twitter have become an avenue for Nigerians to sell their products and services online. These platforms have features that ensure that business is properly carried out. 

WhatsApp, for example, has the "business type" that is mainly designed for small businesses to help them create a professional profile, including business hours, contact information, and a description of the products or services they offer. It also has a catalog feature that enables sellers to upload images, prices, and descriptions of their products or services, making it easy for customers to browse and make purchases. 

People who have been laid off, do not have a 9-5 job, or need an extra means of income have picked a business they think they can do such as clothes, body care products, shoes, jewelry, and even food, to start selling online. They take pictures of their products and post them on their social media pages, and interested customers can place their orders and pay online.  Some of the popular individuals who have turned "online vendors" and are doing well selling their products on social media platforms include:

• Ifeoluwa Agoro - Dang Lifestyle

• Oladimeji Doyin and Moyin - Twinzbite, Twinz logistics, browzlashland

• Michelle Aigbe - Michelle beauty

• Osunlusi Motunrayo - Marymohs.Jewels

• Korede - Korede Spaghetti

Freelance Opportunities 

People with skills such as graphic design, content writing, web development, and video editing can easily find clients on social media platforms. Anyone could need someone to video cover a surprise birthday, a proposal, or an office presentation; individuals with video coverage and editing skills can connect with a potential client on any of the social media platforms. These platforms can also be used to share completed work and testimonials from satisfied clients, which can help to build a strong reputation and attract more clients in the future. 

Influencer marketing

Influencer marketing is inarguably the most popular way for people to make money on social media. You may have heard a lot of people refer to themselves as "Social Media Influencers" - they are individuals who have a large following on social media and can influence their audience's behavior. Many brands are willing to pay influencers to promote their products or services to their followers. 

Popular Enioluwa Adeoluwa, also known as "Beauty boy" and "Lip gloss boy" is a social media influencer who has gained international recognition for his work with brands such as Fenty, Crocs, and recently, Mac. 

With over 900,000 followers on Instagram, Beauty Boy has become a popular figure in the world of beauty and fashion. Beauty Boy's content is both inspiring and aspirational, and his followers are drawn to his confidence and authenticity.

Tomike Adeoye, a.k.a "Olori Ebi"  is another Nigerian social media influencer who has made a name for herself in the world of brand promotion. She has over 500,000 followers on Instagram and is currently associated with leading brands like Maltina, Cadbury, VBank Nigeria, and many others.

Tomike's journey as an influencer began while she was still studying at the University of Lagos. She started by attending and hosting events and creating content on YouTube, where she shared her experiences as a student and offered tips on fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. Her videos quickly gained traction, and she soon became a popular figure on social media. Over the years, Tomike has continued to grow her followers by consistently producing high-quality content and engaging with her audience.

Influencers like Beauty Boy and Tomike have become powerful marketing tools, as they can reach millions of followers and create buzz around a product or brand.

Content creation

Some other social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok have created a new generation of content creators, who can make a living by creating and sharing content online. They build and monetize their content, and individuals can earn revenue through advertising, sponsorships, and product sales. For those with a talent for creating engaging and entertaining content, social media can offer opportunities to turn their passion into a profitable career. Some popular Nigerians  leaning towards this opportunity are:

• Layi Wasabi 

• Folashade Daini

• Frank iTOM

• Sisi yemmie

• Taooma

• Kiekie

• Salem King

• Cassie Daves

• Abike Shuga

• Muhammed Glimoore

• Justin UG

• Folagbade Banks 

• Jay on air

• The Independent Bella

• Toni - the media girl 

Online Coaching/Tutoring

LinkedIn, Twitter spaces, and Instagram live, WhatsApp groups have made it easier for people to offer their services as coaches and consultants. Many individuals who are skilled in a particular area, such as writing, baking, or graphic design use their social media platforms to promote their services and attract clients who are interested in learning those skills. Sometimes, it might be that the coach needs to sell a course that people are interested in, it could be a writing course, content creation, or a design course. 

Also, for instance, If someone is interested in learning how to write a CV, they might see an advertisement on social media for an online coaching or tutoring session. The advertisement might include information about the coach or tutor, such as their qualifications and experience, as well as the date, time, and cost of the session. To sign up for the coaching or tutoring session, the interested individual would need to register and join a private chat group or channel, such as a Telegram or WhatsApp group. The coach or tutor would then provide instructions and guidance through the chat group or channel, sharing tips and answering questions to help the individual improve their skills.