Your Next Career Move Starts Here

Welcome to the Career Column, your go-to space for discovering exciting and attainable jobs that you can explore as a side hustle or new career path. Whether you're seeking to earn extra income or embark on a fresh journey, this column aims to inspire your next move.

This edition, we are circling back and reminding you how to be an influencer on social media.

Scrolling through social media, it may look easy to become an influencer. But behind the likes and followers is hard work, planning and consistency. Across South Africa, young creators are building careers online by sharing beauty tips, comedy skits, dance challenges and music trends.

One example is Grace Mondlana, who has built a loyal following through relatable lifestyle content and engaging videos. Her success shows that influencing is not about being perfect. It is about being consistent, creative and authentic.

Different types of influencing

Beauty and Get ready with me (GRWM)

Beauty influencers share make-up tutorials, skincare routines and hair tips. “Get Ready With Me” videos are especially popular. In these clips, creators talk to their audience while doing their make-up or getting dressed. These videos feel personal and build strong connections with followers.

Comedy skits

Comedy content is huge in South Africa. Short, funny skits about relationships, family life or taxi rank moments are widely shared. If you enjoy acting and making people laugh, comedy can help you grow quickly because humour connects people.

Dance and music challenges

Dance and music trends have created many new influencers. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram often feature viral dance challenges linked to popular songs. When creators jump onto a trend early and add their own style, their videos can reach thousands or even millions of viewers.

South African dancers and content creators such as Elijah Shaai and Rethabile Nkhasi have gained strong online followings through energetic dance videos and participating in trending challenges. By consistently posting creative routines and engaging with trending music, they turned their passion into influence. Dance trends show that you do not always need expensive equipment. Talent, timing and confidence can be enough.

Lifestyle and vlogging

Lifestyle influencers share their daily routines, fitness journeys, study tips or family life. Vlogs help followers feel like they are part of your world. Authenticity is key here.

Educational and motivational content

Some influencers focus on teaching skills such as budgeting, career advice or health tips. This type of content builds trust because it provides value.

How to get started

1. Choose your niche. Decide what you enjoy most. Beauty, dance, comedy or education. Focus helps you grow faster.

2. Be consistent. Post regularly. Growth takes time, and audiences follow creators who show up often.

3. Use trends wisely. If you love dance or music, follow trending sounds and challenges. Add your own twist to stand out.

4. Keep quality in mind. Good lighting and clear sound make a big difference. Natural light works well.

5. Engage with your audience. Reply to comments and thank followers for support. Community builds loyalty.

6. Stay authentic. Do not copy others completely. Learn from them but keep your own personality.

Influencing is not only about fame or free products. It is about building a brand and sharing your talent with the world. Whether through beauty tutorials, comedy skits or viral dance challenges, many South Africans have shown that social media can open doors.

With patience, creativity and discipline, your passion could turn into opportunity.