How to Make Money on Social Media: 15 ways

Want to start earning extra cash on social media? In today’s crowded digital space, monetization takes more than just showing up and posting content. You need a social media strategy. 

Here are 15 methods that work on social platforms to help get you started with your new, lucrative venture. From proven techniques to platform-specific tips, these social media strategies will set you on the path to turning your social presence into a steady income stream.

15 Ways of Making Money on Social Media

1. Create Sponsored Content for Brands

• Initial Investment: $0

• Skill Level Required: Intermediate 

• Potential Earnings: $50 - $10,000 per post (depending on the level of an influencer). Nano-influencers (1K-10K followers) can earn $50 - $300 per post.

Companies always look for influencers to promote their products and services. The reason? Sponsored content allows brands to connect with potential customers through the authentic voices of influencers. As such, it’s a highly effective way for creators to monetize their channels.

From nano-influencers to top-tier creators, sponsored content earnings can vary significantly. For example, the average cost of an Instagram post is around $1,300, but rates vary based on the industry, campaign type, and platform. Brands often consider social media marketing a critical part of their strategy, with budgets ranging from $500-$20,000 per month or $500-$50,000 per project.

Your influence and engagement will be crucial when negotiating rates for sponsored posts. Establishing your value clearly can help you secure fair compensation for your work, making sponsored content a sustainable income stream.

2. Promote Affiliate Products in Your Posts

• Initial Investment: $0

• Skill Level Required: Beginner

• Potential Earnings: $50 - $10,000 or more

Promoting affiliate products is one of the simplest ways to monetize your social media accounts quickly. Affiliate marketing works by sharing a unique affiliate link or code provided by the company you partner with. When your followers purchase through your link, you earn a commission.

The earning potential with affiliate marketing varies widely, depending on your audience size and engagement. Some creators make a few hundred dollars monthly, while others bring in thousands or more with the right products and consistent promotion. Your success depends on how well you connect your audience with products they truly value.

3. Develop and Sell Your Own Digital Products

• Initial Investment: $0 - $300

• Skill Level Required: Beginner

• Potential Earnings: $100 - $2,000

Get creative and start selling your own digital products. Digital products are goods or services that exist entirely online, such as online courses, downloadable art, templates, ebooks, and more. This growing market offers a massive opportunity to generate income by tapping into your skills and creativity.

According to Thinkific, the average US adult spends between $120 to $130 per month on digital products. By leveraging social media, you can promote these products to a broader audience than a traditional storefront would allow. Transactions can be completed directly on social media platforms or through third-party sites like Etsy or Shopify, guiding the customer from your posts to purchase.

Places To Sell Your Products: 

• Instagram

• Shopify

• Facebook

• TikTok

• Etsy 

The digital product industry evolves rapidly, so staying on top of trends is crucial to avoid investing in saturated markets. Keep an eye on what's popular and adjust your offerings to meet demand, ensuring your digital products stand out and attract buyers.

4. Offer One-On-One Coaching Sessions to Your Followers

• Initial Investment: $100

• Skill Level Required: Intermediate

• Potential Earnings: $0 - $2,000 per month

Are you an expert in a particular field or industry like graphic design, website content writing, or video editing? One-on-one coaching is a great way to turn your expertise into income while building meaningful connections. From career advice to specialized guidance, coaching lets you provide personalized support to clients who value your skills—all while monetizing your social media presence.

Earnings from one-on-one coaching can vary depending on your niche and pricing. Many coaches charge anywhere from $50 to $500 per session, with top-tier experts earning even more. With a steady flow of clients, coaching can become a lucrative income stream that grows alongside your social media following.

5. Design and Sell Custom Merchandise

• Initial Investment: $0 for Print on Demand

• Skill Level Required: Intermediate

• Potential Earnings: $2,000 - $3,000

With the growth of social media, online shoppers are turning to platforms like Instagram and Facebook to make clothing purchases like t-shirts and other merch. This shift has made social media a powerful tool for selling custom merchandise.

Selling merchandise online typically happens in two ways:

• Partnering with a Print-on-Demand Service: Print-on-demand services help reduce upfront costs and simplify the fulfillment process by handling everything from printing to packing and shipping your products. This option allows you to focus more on design and marketing without the hassle of inventory management.

• DIY Approach: Alternatively, if you prefer more control, you can manage your own inventory and handle the shipping yourself. This method allows you to oversee every aspect of the production process, from sourcing materials to packaging, but it requires more time and effort.

Using social media to promote your merchandise is crucial for success. Boost your brand’s visibility by regularly showcasing your products on your social channels. Additionally, consider exploring other marketing strategies, such as offering affiliate links or partnering with influencers to expand your reach and attract more customers.

6. Join Platform-Specific Monetization Programs

• Initial Investment: $0 - $10,000

• Skill Level Required: Beginner

• Potential Earnings: Varies

Monetized platforms provide creators with unique opportunities to earn money. Each platform, such as YouTube, TikTok, and others, offers different monetization options, so it's essential to understand which one aligns best with your goals and content style. Creators can earn through various methods, including views, shares, ads, memberships, and direct sales.

YouTube is a prime example of a platform with diverse monetization opportunities. Whether you’re interested in affiliate marketing, paid promotions, or ad revenue, YouTube offers multiple income streams for video creators. You don’t need expensive video equipment to get started. With smartphones and basic editing tools, you can produce content that resonates with your audience and performs well.

The key to success on these platforms is connecting with your target audience. The more engaging your content is, the more views you’ll get and, ultimately, the more income you can generate.

7. Become a Long-Term Brand Ambassador

• Initial Investment: $0

• Skill Level Required: Advanced

• Potential Earnings: $1,000 - $5,000+ per month

Brand ambassadors are crucial in helping businesses increase brand awareness and connect with their target audience. As a brand ambassador, you publicly represent and promote a company's products, often using your influence within a specific industry or community.

If you already have an established presence or influence in a particular niche, consider brands or products you regularly use as potential partners. These companies could be great starting points for securing long-term ambassador opportunities. The partnership is mutually beneficial: the company gains a trusted spokesperson, while you receive compensation through payments, free products, or other incentives.

8. Host Paid Webinars or Virtual Events

• Initial Investment: $0 - $1,000

• Skill Level Required: Intermediate

• Potential Earnings: $500 - $3,000 or more

With the rise of technology and remote work, virtual events have become a popular way to reach a wider audience. Hosting webinars or virtual events allows you to monetize your expertise while engaging with your community.

Start by identifying a topic or industry that aligns with your skills and knowledge. Once you have a clear focus, plan and prepare the content you want to deliver to your audience. The next step is to choose the right platform for hosting your event. Options vary, so research different software to find the best fit for your needs.

Decide on a registration fee that reflects the value of your content and covers your costs. Pricing your event appropriately is crucial, so consider your audience's willingness to pay, your production expenses, and the competitive landscape when setting your price.

9. Launch a Crowdfunding Campaign for a Specific Project

• Initial Investment: $0 - a few thousand

• Skill Level Required: Beginner

• Potential Earnings: $100 - $10,000

Crowdfunding is a powerful way to bring your ideas to life and generate income through social media. If you’re passionate about a project and believe others will be, too, launching a crowdfunding campaign could be a great option.

To increase your chances of success, research existing crowdfunding campaigns, both successful and unsuccessful, on platforms like Kickstarter, GoFundMe, or Indiegogo. Study what worked well and where others fell short to help refine your approach. Understanding these examples can provide valuable insights into what resonates with backers and how to present your idea effectively.

Be mindful of all costs involved—both upfront and long-term. Proper planning can help you avoid unexpected expenses that could derail your project. Clearly outline your budget for online marketing and ensure you know what you’re getting into before launching. This preparation will help you navigate potential roadblocks and set you up for a successful crowdfunding campaign.

10. Provide Social Media Management Services to Businesses

• Initial Investment: $0

• Skill Level Required: Intermediate

• Potential Earnings: Varies

Businesses at all levels—from local startups to national brands—are eager to maintain a strong online presence but often lack the time or expertise to manage social media effectively. Social media is a powerful tool that helps companies build brand awareness, foster customer loyalty, and support broader marketing goals, ultimately driving more sales.

This gap creates a significant opportunity for freelancers and social media managers. By offering social media management services, you can help businesses develop and execute content strategies, create engaging posts, and manage their online communities. This not only serves as a valuable income stream but also helps you build a portfolio, which can open the door to more freelance opportunities.

If you have a knack for crafting content and enjoy helping businesses grow their digital footprint, social media management could be a lucrative service to offer.

11. License Your Viral Content to Media Outlets

• Initial Investment: $0

• Skill Level Required: Beginner

• Potential Earnings: $70 - $200

If you create a video or other viral content, licensing it to media outlets can be a great way to monetize your success. While going viral isn’t guaranteed, having a plan when it happens can help you maximize the opportunity. News networks, entertainment accounts, and other media platforms are constantly searching for engaging content to share with their audiences, and viral content provides them with proven, attention-grabbing material.

Licensing your content can offer multiple benefits:

• Monetary Compensation: You can earn money by granting exclusive rights to your content.

• Increased Exposure: Licensing your content to platforms with a broader reach can help you grow your following and increase your brand visibility.

Before licensing your content, it’s essential to understand the legal aspects of the transaction. Consider seeking legal advice to ensure your rights are protected and that the terms of the agreement are clearly defined.

12. Design and Sell Photo or Video Presets

• Initial Investment: $100 - $500

• Skill Level Required: Intermediate

• Potential Earnings: $1,000s monthly

Selling photo and video presets is a popular way to monetize your social media presence. Presets are customized editing settings that can be applied to images or videos, allowing users to achieve a specific aesthetic with just one click. These presets are highly sought after by both individuals and businesses looking to elevate their visual content, as styles and trends are constantly evolving.

If you have a unique editing style, there’s likely a market of people searching for exactly what you offer. Use your own videos or photos to showcase the look and feel of your presets, demonstrating how they can transform ordinary content. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube are ideal for promoting and selling these presets.

To succeed in this space, develop strong photo or video editing skills. Consider showing your followers how you create your presets through tutorials or behind-the-scenes content. This approach not only adds value but also helps you build a loyal community of aspiring creators eager to learn from you.

13. Create and Sell Custom AR Filters or Effects for Social Platforms

• Initial Investment: $0

• Skill Level Required: Beginner - Intermediate

• Potential Earnings: $100+

Augmented reality (AR) is an exciting technology that allows creators to generate income by designing custom filters and effects for social media platforms. AR filters are digital overlays that can be applied to photos or videos, altering the appearance of users with effects like sunglasses, facial adjustments, or other creative enhancements. These filters have surged in popularity recently, making them a valuable tool for content creators.

To earn money from AR filters, you need to create these effects yourself using AR development tools. Once designed, you can sell your creations directly on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat, which support and promote AR content.

14. Offer Personalized Video Shoutouts or Messages to Fans

• Initial Investment: $0

• Skill Level Required: Intermediate

• Potential Earnings: $100 - $1,000s

Offering personalized video shoutouts or messages is a fantastic way to connect with your fans and monetize your social media presence. This service allows you to engage with your followers in a personal and meaningful way, making them feel appreciated and valued. Fans often request personalized videos from their favorite influencers or celebrities for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or just for a quick hello.

There are several third-party platforms, such as Cameo and Memmo, that specialize in connecting creators with fans looking for these personalized experiences, making it easy for you to start offering this service.

15. Develop and Sell Social Media-Themed Digital Assets

• Initial Investment: $0

• Skill Level Required: Intermediate

• Potential Earnings: $100 - $5,000

Create and sell social media-themed digital assets like templates, graphics, illustrations, and presets to generate income. These ready-made tools are in high demand, helping individuals and businesses save time and skip the hassle of outsourcing or hiring designers. For companies without the resources to produce fresh content regularly, your digital assets can be an outstanding solution.

Platforms like Etsy and Creative Market are excellent places to market and sell your digital assets. These marketplaces allow you to reach a broad audience and capitalize on the demand for high-quality social media content.

Who Makes Money on Social Media?

From video content to still images, there are endless opportunities for anyone to make money on social media. The good news is that you don’t need a massive following to start earning. If building a huge audience isn’t your goal, that’s okay—there are plenty of ways to generate income through social media beyond just follower count.

Mistakes to Avoid with Social Media Monetization

When monetizing your social channels, it’s essential to stay balanced and aligned with your overall marketing strategy. Here are common pitfalls to avoid:

1. Overpromotion and Losing Authenticity

Promoting sponsored content or pushing sales too frequently can cause your brand to feel repetitive and inauthentic. Diversify the content on your social channels to keep your audience interested. A well-planned content calendar with varied, shareable ideas will help keep your brand fresh.

2. Neglecting Audience Engagement

Engagement is key to a successful social media strategy. An engaged audience boosts credibility and conversions, while neglecting them can hurt your reputation and cost sales. Show you care by responding to feedback and making your followers feel valued.

3. Focusing Solely on Follower Count Rather Than Engagement

A high follower count may look impressive, but it doesn’t guarantee successful monetization. Engagement drives algorithms, builds brand loyalty, and increases sales potential. Vanity metrics like follower numbers don’t reflect your ability to connect or convert. Instead, prioritize creating content that truly resonates with your audience.

4. Lack of Diversification in Monetization Strategies

Relying on a single source of income is risky—if it disappears, you’re left vulnerable. Diversify your monetization strategies to maintain a steady income and minimize dependence on one method. A varied approach keeps opportunities and revenue flowing consistently.

5. Failing to Disclose Sponsored Content Properly

Transparency is key when promoting sponsored content. Always label your posts with hashtags like #ad, #sponsored, or #paidpartnership to ensure your audience knows they’re engaging with paid content. Proper disclosure builds trust and protects you from legal issues from failing to comply with advertising regulations.

Work with a Freelancer to Grow Your Social Accounts

Wherever you are on your social media journey, Fiverr Pro has the tools and experts you need to achieve your goals. From video editors to social media managers, you can connect with talented professionals who understand your vision and are ready to help you succeed. Choose from thousands of services that cater to your needs, empowering you to take your social media presence to the next level. 

What will you accomplish next? Let Fiverr Pro be your partner in reaching new heights.

Make Money on Social Media FAQ

1. Which Social Media Platform Is Best for Making Money?

Each platform has its advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the right one depends on your goals and how you plan to monetize your content. Start by researching the most popular social media platforms and their unique features. Once you identify the top channels, you can narrow your options and find the platform that best suits your niche and monetization strategy.

2. Can You Really Make Money on Social Media?

Yes, you can make money on social media. From selling digital downloads to promoting affiliate products, there are countless ways to generate income. While some methods may be more lucrative than others, there’s always potential to earn on these platforms. Focus on the monetization strategies that align with your skills and feel authentic to you. Whether it’s becoming an influencer, selling digital products, or offering personalized services, there are opportunities to fit every type of creator.

3. Can You Really Make Money on Social Media?

Absolutely—social media offers countless opportunities to make money, from selling digital downloads to promoting affiliate products. While some monetization methods may be more profitable than others, there's always a way to earn on these platforms that fits your unique skills and interests.

4. How Many Followers Do You Need to Make Money on Social Media?

The number of followers needed to generate revenue varies based on the monetization approach. For example, creating and selling digital assets, templates, or products often requires fewer followers than offering personalized services like customizable videos. Some methods can be highly profitable, even with a modest following, as long as you have a targeted and engaged audience.

Moving beyond vanity metrics like follower count, focus on your niche, engagement rate, and content quality. These factors play a more significant role in determining your earning potential. A smaller, highly engaged audience can often be more lucrative than a large but less active following.

5. How Much Does Instagram Pay for 1,000 Followers?

Instagram accounts with 1,000 followers typically earn around $10 per 1,000 followers. However, it's crucial not to focus solely on these figures. Engagement rates provide a more accurate measure of earning potential. High engagement usually means your audience is actively interested in your content, which can lead to better opportunities for partnerships, sponsored content, and higher payouts.