5 Parts of your Business Worth Investing In
When I first started CLJ 15 years ago, there was no rulebook. There was no guiding resource to tell me how to grow a business as an influencer, which is one of the MAJOR reasons Chris and I started Good Influencer. To not only help set industry standards for what to charge and how to conduct yourself online. But to legitimize this industry and help other creators confidently build their brands.
So whether you're justing starting out, or have 100,000 followers- here are 5 things that are absolutely worth investing in to grow as an influencer:
1. A Good Phone: Your #1 Content Creation Tool
Investing in a high-quality phone is non-negotiable for an influencer. With each new iPhone release, the camera technology gets closer to professional-level photography and videography, making it a powerful tool for creating stunning content on the go. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are prioritizing authentic, candid moments over highly polished productions, which is great news for anyone using their phone to shoot content. I personally use a separate phone just for my business—it's a great way to keep personal and professional content organized, plus it ensures I never run out of storage mid-shoot. If you’re serious about your influencer journey, this is an investment that will pay off immediately.
2. Presets: Consistency is Key
One of the simplest ways to brand yourself as a professional is by maintaining a cohesive aesthetic across your content. Presets are a fantastic tool to ensure that your photos have a consistent look, making your feed visually appealing and instantly recognizable. When I first started, I experimented with different styles until I found a preset that reflected my brand’s personality. I even developed my own pack of presets, which is available in our shop, but whether you buy one or create your own, the point is to keep your visual identity consistent. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about building trust with your audience through your distinct style.
3. A Content Planner: Your Organizational Superpower
A solid content planner is essential to staying on top of your posting schedule and collaborations. The biggest influencers don’t just post when they feel like it—they have a system. Tools like Asana, Trello, and Monday make it easy to map out your content calendar, plan ahead, and organize your ideas in a way that boosts productivity. You can start with free versions of these tools and upgrade as your brand grows. And if you’re just starting out with little budget to spare, a simple Google Sheet can be just as effective. The key is to have a roadmap for your content so that you never miss important trends or posting opportunities.
4. Time Investment: The Most Overlooked Resource
Time is arguably your most valuable asset as an influencer. The content you see online didn’t happen by chance; it was carefully thought out, planned, and executed. That’s why it’s essential to schedule dedicated hours each week to create, edit, and plan your posts. High-quality content doesn’t happen overnight, and consistency is what keeps your audience engaged. Set a weekly routine for yourself where you can brainstorm ideas, shoot content, and edit without distractions. Even when life gets hectic, protecting this time is crucial to growing your online presence. Trust me, the hours you invest now will pay off tenfold in the future.
5. Reinvest Affiliate Income: Grow Your Income Stream
When you start seeing returns from affiliate marketing, don’t stop there—reinvest a portion of your earnings back into your business. Whether it’s purchasing next month’s affiliate products or upgrading your gear, this reinvestment strategy allows you to build momentum. Many new influencers see their first commission check and think of it as a win, but the real power comes when you use that income to fuel your next set of campaigns. I recommend setting aside a percentage of each affiliate payout to put back into the business, helping you generate even more opportunities.
Building a business as an influencer is no small feat. I’ve been where you are, and I understand the grind. But here’s the truth: every tool, every hour you invest in this journey is taking you one step closer to achieving your goals. The best part? You’re not alone in this. We’re all in this together, working to not just grow as influencers, but to legitimize this industry and show the world what we’re capable of. Let’s keep turning the marketing world on its head—one post at a time
