How I Started Make Money With Social Media (and Why I Thought I’d Be Rich Overnight)
Spoiler alert: I didn’t. But I learned some hilarious and humbling lessons along the way.
Learning how to make money with social media has been my accidental gateway to turning posts into paychecks. If you’re juggling toddlers, work, and the dream of not crying every time you check your bank balance (relatable), this post is for you. This blog is your ultimate guide to understanding how to make money with social media.
When I started sharing my RV adventures and parenting hacks, I assumed brands would throw money at me faster than my toddler throws Cheerios on the floor. But success didn’t happen overnight. (Shocking, I know!) What did happen was a steady income stream—one affiliate link, one blog post, and one box of granola bars at a time.
Now, I’ll show you the exact strategies I used to make it work. Ready? Grab a coffee (or your toddler’s leftover apple juice), and let’s dive in!
1. Affiliate Marketing: How to Make Money With Social Media
Affiliate marketing was my gateway drug into monetization. Why? Because I was already recommending products I loved—like solar panels for RV boondocking, toddler-proof gadgets, and (yes) those miracle toilet deodorizers.
How I Got Started (and You Can Too):
- Step 1: Join programs like Amazon Associates, ShareASale, or Rakuten Marketing.
- Step 2: Write blog posts with strategic keywords like “best toddler travel essentials” or “RV gadgets that make life easier.”
- Step 3: Add links everywhere: blog posts, Instagram bios, TikTok captions, even your Pinterest pins.
Pro Tip: Use tools like Pretty Links to create short, trackable affiliate links that look less… spammy.
What worked for me: I promoted products that my audience actually cared about, like solar panels for RV living and toddler travel must-haves.
2. Sponsored Content: Turning Granola Bars Into Gold
Ah, my first sponsorship. Was it a cash payout? Nope. It was a box of granola bars. Did I feel like an influencer goddess? You bet.
Sponsored posts are a key part of learning how to make money with social media.
How I Landed My First Sponsored Gig:
- Create a Media Kit: Use free tools like Canva to design a one-pager highlighting your audience, engagement rates, and content style.
- Start Small: Pitch family-friendly or niche brands.
- Be Relatable: Brands want real, authentic stories.
3. Selling Digital Products: Passive Income on Autopilot
SEO Keywords: sell digital products online, passive income ideas
After one too many, “Why isn’t there a ___ for parents like me?” moments, I decided to create my own solution: a preschool writing journal. I uploaded it to Etsy, sprinkled some Pinterest magic, and voila! Passive income. Check out my best seller here!
How to Start Selling Digital Products (Even If You’re Busy):
- Step 1: Solve a problem. What does your audience need?
- Step 2: Create it. Use tools like Canva or Adobe Spark.
- Step 3: Sell it on platforms like Etsy or Gumroad.
4. My Book: A Resource for Making More Money
Looking to boost your income in the new year? My book, 25 Ways to Make Money in 2025, is your ultimate guide to navigating the evolving financial landscape. Packed with practical tips, innovative ideas, and actionable strategies, this book will help you discover diverse ways to earn, from leveraging technology to starting side hustles. Whether you’re a busy parent, a full-time worker, or just someone looking for extra income streams, this resource has something for everyone. Don’t wait—grab your copy today and start building your financial future!
Final Words: Success Is Built One Step at a Time
Monetizing your platforms is not just a dream; learning how to make money with social media can turn it into reality. Whether you’re slinging affiliate links, selling digital products, or pitching brands, every step is progress. Platforms like TikTok are perfect examples of how to make money with social media as a beginner.
The key? Don’t give up. And remember: Even a toilet deodorizer sale is a win.
P.S. If you want to see how I make this magic happen, follow me on TikTok and Instagram.
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