Influencers on TikTok, YouTube sell tips and tricks of the trade – and the coaching can make them millions

Social media influencers are capitalising on their fame and expertise by selling online courses, from marketing to cooking to viral videos, to followers

While the courses can diversify influencers’ incomes, not all find them worthwhile. Others charge a monthly rate to advise companies and individuals one-on-one

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If you want to become internet famous, influencers like Kristen Bousquet are here to help you do it – as long as you’re happy to pay for it. Photo: Instagram/@kbousq

Published: 4:15pm, 10 Apr 2022

As a travel vlogger and social media influencer, Christina Galbato got a lot of messages from her online followers. They requested tips for hotels and restaurants, but many sought another kind of advice.

“A lot of what they were asking was: how can I do what you do?” the 29-year-old recalls.

That’s why Galbato launched “The Influencer Bootcamp”, 20 hours of pre-recorded lessons in how others can monetise their social media presence.

She charges US$700 for a package that includes that course as well as other tools, such as sample email pitches and access to a members-only Facebook support group. Galbato says she’s on track to take in US$4 million in revenue this year.

Christina Galbato says she’s on track to take in US$4 million in revenue this year. Photo: courtesy of Christina Galbato

The influencer marketing business is already a US$20 billion industry, and one that’s projected to grow as social media users increase and brands seek out online talent to pitch their products on YouTube, Instagram and other sites.