The creator economy is booming. Even if you haven’t made it as a creator yet, chances are the thought has entered your head. But did you know that this role has also opened up huge opportunities for gig workers? It could be the best way for you to get started with the creator economy and start earning money. Here’s what you need to know about being a creator in the gig economy and how to tap into this growing trend.
Brands Are Beginning to Hire Micro-Creators
Here is the good news: you don’t need millions of followers to get a brand deal in 2025. Brands have taken a different tactic with marketing. They are actively seeking micro-influencers with 1000-10000 followers. So if you have a small but engaged audience on any social media platform, whether that’s TikTok, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook, you could begin landing paid gigs for lots of opportunities, including:
- Product promotions
- Content collaborations
- User-generated content
If you are already active on social media, start showcasing your skills and documenting real-life content. Brands love authentic creators.
Paid Communities and Memberships Are Growing
There are many platforms that now offer creators the chance to earn a steady recurring income for the content they’re producing online. The most popular ones are:
- Patreon
- Substack
- Buy Me a Coffee
Perhaps you have a skill in design, writing, or cooking and can build a small community around that skill. If so, you can offer exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, or private coaching through these easy, low-cost memberships online. You can start small, such as a $5/month membership. It adds passive income to your gig work.
AI Tools Help, Not Hinder
Some creators are frightened about the rise in AI. They worry it might replace some of the efforts they put into their social media posts. But AI shouldn’t be seen as something that will replace you but as an opportunity to help you. ChatGPT, Jasper, and Canva AI can help you get new content up and running faster, helping you be consistent, which is what brands want to see. So, spend some time learning the basics of AI. If it boosts your productivity, you could begin to see a real impact on your creator earnings in 2025 and beyond.
Focus on User-Generated Content for Gig Work
User-generated content is where creators make authentic photos, videos, or reviews for the brand. This is great as a gig work opportunity because you don’t need a massive following. Brands are simply interested in you sharing your opinion on their products. If you are comfortable creating short videos or honest reviews, user-generated content can be an excellent and reliable source of income for gig workers.
Final Thoughts on the Creator Economy
Remember that the creator economy is not just there for famous influencers. It’s the perfect side hustle and a fresh opportunity for gig workers, especially if you already love sharing content on social media. It can offer a healthy income stream that can be invaluable when you become a gig worker.
