Yesterday, we told you about a TikTok influencer making millions by dancing. We also said you don’t have to dance to make it big with an online side hustle. If you’re like most people, you probably turn to YouTube whenever you want to find a video to learn something. But have you ever considered TikTok?

Kat Norton (a.k.a. “Miss Excel”) uses platforms like TikTok and Instagram to sell her Microsoft Excel spreadsheet tutorials and courses – proof that you don’t have to be a dancer or offer makeup tutorials to be an online influencer. You may already BE an influencer, but you don’t know it.

Are you the person in town everyone turns to for car care advice? Are your neighbors always asking how you get your rose bushes to look so good? Do your coworkers constantly ask you for advice on marriage, raising children, or home repair? If so, you’ve likely become a “trusted advisor.” This is someone others seek out because they know they’ll get sound counsel.

The line between “trusted advisor” and “influencer” is thin in places, and blurry in others. If people trust you give them good advice on keeping their car well-maintained, you’re a trusted advisor. If they start asking which brand of motor oil you recommend, you’re an influencer. What kinds of questions do people ask? If you notice that you’re the “go-to” person for a certain topic, you’re probably already be an influencer. The next step might be to “monetize” your influence by creating a Facebook page, Twitter account, YouTube channel, or… even a TikTok account.

If you think you might have a side hustle inside you, let it out by contacting us at Sequoyah Fund. We can help with your planning, small business courses, and financing.