10 blogger and vlogger side hustle benefits

Have you considered being a blogger or vlogger?   Both terms sound alike.  Yet, they’re not the same.  

There are similarities and differences.  There are also pros and cons.  Read my article for more.

Firstly, blogs are web logs.  On the other hand, the term vlog means video blogs.  While one focuses on writing, the other uses videos as a medium.

Are web logs obsolete?  There was a time when people wondered if videos may replace them.  However, the test of time shows that writing and reading remain valued.

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Secondly, this article also includes a referral link. It means that if you click on it and join a platform, we’ll both receive credits (at no additional cost to you).

I’ve used WordPress.com as my platform for over four years  (at the time of writing).  One of the top benefits that I enjoy is the support.  I can focus on my side of the activity, while all the technical things are taken care of.

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1. Influencer

Influencers are often bloggers and/or vloggers who have great influence.  Content creators, on the other hand, may focus on creation.  Brands may want to work with both for the value that each adds.  

Some brands may pay influencers for their influence over an impressive following.  Others may want a smaller creator (with a target niche) to produce content for them.  These may be published on the brand’s platforms as well.

2. Differences 

On platforms like TikTok and Instagram, content goes viral.  It’s however, short-lived.  For articles, you can take a better approach through search engine optimization (SEO).  This can bring longer-term benefits (subject to Google algorithm updates). 

The difference between a blogger and a vlogger is mainly the medium used.  However, many have multiple platforms, and so benefit from both types.  My site is my main platform, and I share my articles on social media.  I shoot videos, mostly about nature, and my garden. 

Producing with your key persona in mind is key.  Give helpful content.  Avoid unnatural language and keyword stuffing. 

Follow experts in SEO for tips.  YouTube is a great resource place as well.  Learn how to speak, use a camera like a pro, and more.

3. Similarities

Both tend to be informal.  It means that you can have a following.  However, you may not be seen on TV or the news, unlike celebrities.

You can generate income.  Some people make a part-time income, while others go full-time.  On the other hand, others have never made any. 

Whichever may be your preferred means, have a strong message.  Be original and genuine.  Create helpful content that your audience needs.

I received my first payment for sponsorship after one year.  While writing comes naturally, I’ve seen the impact of videos.  I, therefore, started building some skills and posting idea pins and reels. 

I bought and followed an online course that helped me much.  No matter if you’re a beginner or more experienced, you can gain lots from it.  Take a look at it and enroll if you choose to.

Photography Masterclass: 

A Complete Guide to Photography

4. Pros and cons

There are perks and drawbacks to both.  There is no right or wrong.  I’ll dig in deeper through the subheadings in the paragraphs below. 

5. Monetization

Both types can be monetized.  sites can run ads, do affiliate marketing, publish sponsored posts, and sell their products, and services.  There can be more ways as well.    

Vlogging, you can run ads on YouTube if eligible.  Some platforms have their monetization programs as well.  Work with a brand as a content creator or influencer, do affiliate marketing, and sell your products.

There are many influencer platforms that you can join to get started.  Learn to pitch as well.  I currently run ads, do affiliate marketing, and sometimes work on brand sponsorships.

Grow your accounts gradually and attract the right type of followers.  Avoid any follow-for-follow, as this will only damage your work in the long term.  Even with a smaller audience, you can make some sales. 

6. Investment

This one is interesting to note.  Both provide the benefit of being low-cost, compared to most other types of businesses.  You don’t have to start a brick-and-mortar, hire employees, etc.  

You can get started with a site and pay around 50 USD a year.  For vlogging, you can join a platform such as YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram for free.  Start with your phone and then get a better camera.  A tripod, lighting, and a decent microphone are also better.

7. Cost of equipment

It tends to be cheaper to write than record content.  Cameras also get outdated after a while.  Upgrading often to get the latest best quality may be a challenge.  A smartphone is a good start, however, a DSLR is more professional.  

Upgrading to a new phone can be easier and more affordable.  Do not hesitate, start using it.  Create great and original content.  You can always decide to get better gear later on.

8. Skills

It’s great to start and keep learning!  Ongoing learning and improvements are natural.  Beginners don’t have to be professionals.  They start as nano influencers or small sites.

People even tend to like natural-looking accounts.  While celebrities are stars, the Instagrammer with a few thousand followers may look relatable.  People trust and feel like a friend to those they feel they know.   

9. Personality type

Being an ambivert, I value solitude.  I also work in sales and marketing on my terms.  There are various options for introvert remote working.  

Whether you write or speak on camera, you do put yourself out on the internet.  It can be intimidating.  Hate speech and bullying also happen.

Vloggers take up more challenges as they speak, compared to writers.  You can choose your preferred activity, based on your personality type.  However, always be authentic.

It’s often said that it’s easier to hide behind words than when you talk.  If you work on a brand sponsorship, it’s harder to fake it on camera.  Always be genuine and recommend a product you don’t like (just to get paid).  

When readers or viewers follow you, they can trust your recommendations.  This is valuable, so be careful and promote the right products.  Be careful of short-term tactics that hurt in the longer term. 

10. Speak vs text

Text is here to stay.  People will always read.  However, video is often more convenient to watch.  If you’re looking to start a side hustle, incorporating video is a good option.  Even in my articles, I embed idea pins where relevant.

I bought another online course which I yet have to complete.  Take a look and enroll if you want to hone your skills.  

Video Production Bootcamp: 

Videography, Cinematography+

Conclusion

Having a side hustle is fun.  It can also help generate extra income.  Take any of the online courses I mentioned above in my article.  Start a site with my link for the special discount, if you desire to.  Whether a blogger or vlogger, enjoy your activity brilliantly!