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Unleashing Your Brand’s Potential with the Creator Economy in 2024

October 31, 2023
Emma Hessen

Let’s Start At The Beginning 

Imagine this: You're scrolling through your favourite social media platform, and you stumble upon someone with thousands or even millions of followers, not because they're an actress or a corporate tycoon, but because they're a regular individual like you and me. 

At its core, the Creator Economy is a digital ecosystem where everyday people leverage their passions, skills, and creativity to produce content on various online platforms. These creators build communities of loyal followers who consume their content, engage with them, and often provide financial support for their work.

Think of it as a colossal talent show. These creators aren't your run-of-the-mill celebrities; they're the kid next door who whips up mean recipes, the fashionista with an eye for thrift store treasures, or the tech whizz who can turn your old gadgets into gold. They're creating everything from those TikTok dances your kids do, to DIY tutorials, gaming adventures, travel guide vlogs, and niche podcasts about... well, everything under the sun. The unifying thread? Their ability to forge genuine connections with their audience through their content.

The Creator Economy is worth R4 Billion in 2023. 

Why Should Your Brand Care About The Creator Economy?

Audience Engagement: Get Closer to the People

Creators have some hardcore fans. They're not just people on the internet; they're a devoted community. When you partner with creators, you get to tap into a pre-existing, super-engaged audience, building authentic connections with potential customers. It's like walking into a room where everyone already knows your name.

There are more than 30 million creators on Instagram.

Authenticity: Trust the Real Deals

Creators are known for keeping it authentic. When they say something's good, it's not because they're reading a script; it's because they genuinely believe it. Their recommendations are transparent, which makes them perfect brand ambassadors. You know you're not just throwing your brand into a black hole; it's in the hands of someone who actually cares.

Targeted Marketing: Hit the Bullseye

Creators are the experts when it comes to carving out their own unique niche. They don't just hit the mark; they bullseye it. This focused approach ensures that your message isn't merely finding ears; it's resonating with the right ones. You're no longer stuck in the dark, crossing your fingers, and hoping that your ad miraculously lands in front of the right audience. With creators, you're not casting a wide net and praying for the best; you're hitting the bullseye.

Content Creation: Leverage The Experts

It's no secret that creators are masterful when it comes to content creation. When brands collaborate with these experts, they gain access to a wealth of high-quality and captivating content. This isn't about delivering content that you keep scrolling past; it's about creating material that captivates, engages, and ensures audiences keep returning for more.

Data-Driven Insights: Peek Behind the Curtain

Creators don't just know who their viewers are; they grasp what motivates them, what content keeps them engaged, and why they keep coming back for more. When you partner with them, you're essentially gaining a dedicated understanding of their audience’s behaviour and preferences. It's like having a bird's eye view into the minds of your potential customers. With this insight, you can tailor your brand's message and content to resonate on a profound level, allowing you to create content that truly speaks to their interests and fosters meaningful connections.

Embracing Change: Ride the Wave 

In the whirlwind of the digital realm, one thing remains constant – change. The Creator Economy mirrors the ever-evolving landscape and brands that wholeheartedly embrace this dynamic environment signal their ability to break free from the shackles of tradition and step into the future.

With 4.2 billion social media users, there's room for every niche, with the Creator Economy set to potentially double, hitting 

R9 Billion by 2027.

Community Building: Create Lifelong Fans

Creators aren't just content machines; they're community builders. They create spaces where people gather, chat, and build relationships. Brands can tap into this sense of community to foster consumer loyalty. They get to hang out with their audience on their home turf, making the customer-brand relationship not just a transaction but a genuine connection.

Case Study: Yaga

Yaga Passion to Profit Campaign with People Have Influence

Since 2020, we've had the privilege of collaborating with Yaga, South Africa's market place for pre-loved fashion. During this time, the brand embarked on an exciting journey with a group of talented girls who have remained steadfast in their commitment to the brand ever since, still working on campaigns as of today.

The brand manager understands the true value of these partnerships. It's all about the authenticity these girls bring to the table. Their content isn't just about promoting the app and pushing downloads, it’s about celebrating the outputs and perks that come with selling their  products on Yaga. The girls Yaga partners with know that  it's about sharing their  genuine experiences of working with the app, that people can connect with and relate to. 

But what's truly amazing is that these women are not just content creators; they're shaping the Creator Economy in a big way. They're not only being compensated for the content they produce, but also reaping the rewards of earning the profit from selling their preloved items online.

It's a two-pronged approach that allows the girls to carve out a significant “side hustle” income for themselves, with earnings ranging from R10,000 to R20,000 each month from the sale of their very own pre-loved items. It's a testament to their dedication, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit.

In a nutshell, it's a win-win scenario. The brand benefits from their authentic content, and the girls get to transform their passion for fashion  into prosperity. This type of partnership is a glimpse into the inner works of the creator economy and its earning potential.

Yaga x Paula Lakay

Click on the image to hear Paula's Passion to Profit story

69% of content creators say brand deals are their most lucrative revenue source

How Your Brand Can Utilize The Creator Economy

The Creator Economy is like a treasure chest overflowing with opportunities for brands looking to establish authentic connections with their ideal audience. It's a dynamic landscape, and within it lie three powerful strategies: influencer marketing, user-generated content (UGC), and a brand's own digital content creation.

Let's dive into influencer partnerships. Influencers have conjured dedicated followings who deeply trust their opinions and expertise. Brands can form alliances with the people who seamlessly fit into their specific niche, instantly gaining access to pre-existing and highly engaged communities. The magic touch these influencers bring lies in their authenticity and relatability, qualities that traditional advertising often lacks. They possess an almost magical understanding of their audience, allowing brands to craft finely-tuned messages for maximum impact. Whether it's through sponsored posts or compelling product reviews, influencers have a knack for elegantly weaving a brand's offerings into their content, increasing the chances of potential customers taking action.

Now, let's venture into the world of user-generated content (UGC), where customers take center stage. Here, brands encourage their customers to create and share content related to their products or experiences. This not only shines a spotlight on the brand but also nurtures a sense of community towards their customers. What makes this type of content so special is its trustworthiness and authenticity. It's the real voice of real customers, offering social proof and validating the brand's value. Brands can then curate and share this content across their platforms, fostering even stronger connections with their audience. 

An example of a UGC piece inspired from our work on the Woolworths ‘Beauty is You’ campaign. A customer shares her story on what beauty means to her. 

Brands aren't limited to collaborating with influencers and encouraging user-generated content though. They can also dive headfirst into crafting their own content. By creating content that aligns with their brand identity and values, they can engage directly with their audience and promote their products or services. This can include a range of media, from blog posts and videos to podcasts and social media content and more. Taking the reins of content creation means a brand's message stays true to its values and can adapt to changing trends and audience preferences, making sure they remain relevant as time marches on.

52% of marketers lean on creators to strengthen their social community, and 41% say they want to work with content creators to promote their brand values. 

Beyond these strategies, the Creator Economy is also a powerful mechanism for market research. By keeping a vigilant eye on and actively participating in discussions and content related to their niche, brands can unearth valuable insights into consumer behaviour, preferences, and evolving trends. These insights, like precious gems, can be used to refine marketing strategies and bolster product development. Engaging with the Creator Economy sends a clear signal to the brand's audience that they are genuinely attuned to their interests and concerns, building even more trust and loyalty.

In a nutshell, the Creator Economy hands you a toolbox to connect, engage, and shine. Whether through influencer partnerships, UGC campaigns, self-generated content, or market research, brands can tap into its magic to remain authentic, relevant, and effective.

Looking Towards the Future

Picture a world where virtually anyone with a knack for content creation can be their own boss. We're talking about more YouTubers, TikTokers, Instagrammers, and creative minds jumping into the scene. The entry barriers are practically falling away, thanks to affordable tech and user-friendly software. If you’ve got an idea, you can run with it, and that's not changing anytime soon.

When it comes to making money in the Creator Economy, things are evolving. Sure, ads and sponsored content are still around, but there's a whole new variety of income options. Creators are diving into merchandise sales, fan subscriptions, and even the world of NFTs (non-fungible tokens). Communities and virtual experiences are where it's at. Creators are going beyond just content – they're building deep connections with their audiences, forming loyal followings. 

As our physical and digital worlds continue to collide, creators will be front and centre in reshaping how we learn, get entertained, and connect with brands and products. The future is wide open, and the Creator Economy is here to redefine our digital age.

Get in Touch

Get in touch with us to help you reap the benefits of The Creator Economy and how your brand can utilize it for your marketing strategy for 2024 and beyond. Or head on over to @peoplehaveinfluence_ on Instagram where you’ll find us doing what we do best.

Liked this Blog? You May Be Interested In These:

The Power Of Personal Influence – Both Online And Offline
P.H.I. & Vuse Hit the Slopes at Tomorrowland Winter
Influencer Marketing in 2023: Where Do I Need To Show Up? (Part One)

Unleashing Your Brand’s Potential with the Creator Economy in 2024

October 31, 2023
Emma Hessen

Let’s Start At The Beginning 

Imagine this: You're scrolling through your favourite social media platform, and you stumble upon someone with thousands or even millions of followers, not because they're an actress or a corporate tycoon, but because they're a regular individual like you and me. 

At its core, the Creator Economy is a digital ecosystem where everyday people leverage their passions, skills, and creativity to produce content on various online platforms. These creators build communities of loyal followers who consume their content, engage with them, and often provide financial support for their work.

Think of it as a colossal talent show. These creators aren't your run-of-the-mill celebrities; they're the kid next door who whips up mean recipes, the fashionista with an eye for thrift store treasures, or the tech whizz who can turn your old gadgets into gold. They're creating everything from those TikTok dances your kids do, to DIY tutorials, gaming adventures, travel guide vlogs, and niche podcasts about... well, everything under the sun. The unifying thread? Their ability to forge genuine connections with their audience through their content.

The Creator Economy is worth R4 Billion in 2023. 

Why Should Your Brand Care About The Creator Economy?

Audience Engagement: Get Closer to the People

Creators have some hardcore fans. They're not just people on the internet; they're a devoted community. When you partner with creators, you get to tap into a pre-existing, super-engaged audience, building authentic connections with potential customers. It's like walking into a room where everyone already knows your name.

There are more than 30 million creators on Instagram.

Authenticity: Trust the Real Deals

Creators are known for keeping it authentic. When they say something's good, it's not because they're reading a script; it's because they genuinely believe it. Their recommendations are transparent, which makes them perfect brand ambassadors. You know you're not just throwing your brand into a black hole; it's in the hands of someone who actually cares.

Targeted Marketing: Hit the Bullseye

Creators are the experts when it comes to carving out their own unique niche. They don't just hit the mark; they bullseye it. This focused approach ensures that your message isn't merely finding ears; it's resonating with the right ones. You're no longer stuck in the dark, crossing your fingers, and hoping that your ad miraculously lands in front of the right audience. With creators, you're not casting a wide net and praying for the best; you're hitting the bullseye.

Content Creation: Leverage The Experts

It's no secret that creators are masterful when it comes to content creation. When brands collaborate with these experts, they gain access to a wealth of high-quality and captivating content. This isn't about delivering content that you keep scrolling past; it's about creating material that captivates, engages, and ensures audiences keep returning for more.

Data-Driven Insights: Peek Behind the Curtain

Creators don't just know who their viewers are; they grasp what motivates them, what content keeps them engaged, and why they keep coming back for more. When you partner with them, you're essentially gaining a dedicated understanding of their audience’s behaviour and preferences. It's like having a bird's eye view into the minds of your potential customers. With this insight, you can tailor your brand's message and content to resonate on a profound level, allowing you to create content that truly speaks to their interests and fosters meaningful connections.

Embracing Change: Ride the Wave 

In the whirlwind of the digital realm, one thing remains constant – change. The Creator Economy mirrors the ever-evolving landscape and brands that wholeheartedly embrace this dynamic environment signal their ability to break free from the shackles of tradition and step into the future.

With 4.2 billion social media users, there's room for every niche, with the Creator Economy set to potentially double, hitting 

R9 Billion by 2027.

Community Building: Create Lifelong Fans

Creators aren't just content machines; they're community builders. They create spaces where people gather, chat, and build relationships. Brands can tap into this sense of community to foster consumer loyalty. They get to hang out with their audience on their home turf, making the customer-brand relationship not just a transaction but a genuine connection.

Case Study: Yaga

Yaga Passion to Profit Campaign with People Have Influence

Since 2020, we've had the privilege of collaborating with Yaga, South Africa's market place for pre-loved fashion. During this time, the brand embarked on an exciting journey with a group of talented girls who have remained steadfast in their commitment to the brand ever since, still working on campaigns as of today.

The brand manager understands the true value of these partnerships. It's all about the authenticity these girls bring to the table. Their content isn't just about promoting the app and pushing downloads, it’s about celebrating the outputs and perks that come with selling their  products on Yaga. The girls Yaga partners with know that  it's about sharing their  genuine experiences of working with the app, that people can connect with and relate to. 

But what's truly amazing is that these women are not just content creators; they're shaping the Creator Economy in a big way. They're not only being compensated for the content they produce, but also reaping the rewards of earning the profit from selling their preloved items online.

It's a two-pronged approach that allows the girls to carve out a significant “side hustle” income for themselves, with earnings ranging from R10,000 to R20,000 each month from the sale of their very own pre-loved items. It's a testament to their dedication, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit.

In a nutshell, it's a win-win scenario. The brand benefits from their authentic content, and the girls get to transform their passion for fashion  into prosperity. This type of partnership is a glimpse into the inner works of the creator economy and its earning potential.

Yaga x Paula Lakay

Click on the image to hear Paula's Passion to Profit story

69% of content creators say brand deals are their most lucrative revenue source

How Your Brand Can Utilize The Creator Economy

The Creator Economy is like a treasure chest overflowing with opportunities for brands looking to establish authentic connections with their ideal audience. It's a dynamic landscape, and within it lie three powerful strategies: influencer marketing, user-generated content (UGC), and a brand's own digital content creation.

Let's dive into influencer partnerships. Influencers have conjured dedicated followings who deeply trust their opinions and expertise. Brands can form alliances with the people who seamlessly fit into their specific niche, instantly gaining access to pre-existing and highly engaged communities. The magic touch these influencers bring lies in their authenticity and relatability, qualities that traditional advertising often lacks. They possess an almost magical understanding of their audience, allowing brands to craft finely-tuned messages for maximum impact. Whether it's through sponsored posts or compelling product reviews, influencers have a knack for elegantly weaving a brand's offerings into their content, increasing the chances of potential customers taking action.

Now, let's venture into the world of user-generated content (UGC), where customers take center stage. Here, brands encourage their customers to create and share content related to their products or experiences. This not only shines a spotlight on the brand but also nurtures a sense of community towards their customers. What makes this type of content so special is its trustworthiness and authenticity. It's the real voice of real customers, offering social proof and validating the brand's value. Brands can then curate and share this content across their platforms, fostering even stronger connections with their audience. 

An example of a UGC piece inspired from our work on the Woolworths ‘Beauty is You’ campaign. A customer shares her story on what beauty means to her. 

Brands aren't limited to collaborating with influencers and encouraging user-generated content though. They can also dive headfirst into crafting their own content. By creating content that aligns with their brand identity and values, they can engage directly with their audience and promote their products or services. This can include a range of media, from blog posts and videos to podcasts and social media content and more. Taking the reins of content creation means a brand's message stays true to its values and can adapt to changing trends and audience preferences, making sure they remain relevant as time marches on.

52% of marketers lean on creators to strengthen their social community, and 41% say they want to work with content creators to promote their brand values. 

Beyond these strategies, the Creator Economy is also a powerful mechanism for market research. By keeping a vigilant eye on and actively participating in discussions and content related to their niche, brands can unearth valuable insights into consumer behaviour, preferences, and evolving trends. These insights, like precious gems, can be used to refine marketing strategies and bolster product development. Engaging with the Creator Economy sends a clear signal to the brand's audience that they are genuinely attuned to their interests and concerns, building even more trust and loyalty.

In a nutshell, the Creator Economy hands you a toolbox to connect, engage, and shine. Whether through influencer partnerships, UGC campaigns, self-generated content, or market research, brands can tap into its magic to remain authentic, relevant, and effective.

Looking Towards the Future

Picture a world where virtually anyone with a knack for content creation can be their own boss. We're talking about more YouTubers, TikTokers, Instagrammers, and creative minds jumping into the scene. The entry barriers are practically falling away, thanks to affordable tech and user-friendly software. If you’ve got an idea, you can run with it, and that's not changing anytime soon.

When it comes to making money in the Creator Economy, things are evolving. Sure, ads and sponsored content are still around, but there's a whole new variety of income options. Creators are diving into merchandise sales, fan subscriptions, and even the world of NFTs (non-fungible tokens). Communities and virtual experiences are where it's at. Creators are going beyond just content – they're building deep connections with their audiences, forming loyal followings. 

As our physical and digital worlds continue to collide, creators will be front and centre in reshaping how we learn, get entertained, and connect with brands and products. The future is wide open, and the Creator Economy is here to redefine our digital age.

Get in Touch

Get in touch with us to help you reap the benefits of The Creator Economy and how your brand can utilize it for your marketing strategy for 2024 and beyond. Or head on over to @peoplehaveinfluence_ on Instagram where you’ll find us doing what we do best.

Liked this Blog? You May Be Interested In These:

The Power Of Personal Influence – Both Online And Offline
P.H.I. & Vuse Hit the Slopes at Tomorrowland Winter
Influencer Marketing in 2023: Where Do I Need To Show Up? (Part One)