A few years ago, the word influencer meant someone with millions of followers, brand deals, and an Instagram feed that looked like a luxury travel magazine.
Today? You can have 1,000 followers, post videos from your kitchen, and still earn money.
That’s the power of the micro-influencer era.
Why Brands Love Micro-Influencers
Brands figured out something important:
People trust people, not polished ads.
Micro-influencers — creators with anywhere from 1,000 to 50,000 followers — often get:
- Higher engagement rates
- A more loyal, niche audience
- Content that feels authentic
And when followers trust you, they trust your recommendations. That’s where the money comes in.
TikTok Is Leading the Charge
TikTok’s algorithm gives small accounts a real shot at going viral — sometimes overnight.
People are making money by:
- Partnering with brands through platforms like LTK and ShopMy
- Posting honest product reviews