Content-creating. An industry currently sweeping across the world and altering the labor force, but still relatively unrecognized as a legitimate profession. Almost everywhere on social media, tens of millions of content creators can be found catering to global audiences. Beginning with the viral Youtubers of the 2010s and evolving into the make-up tutorials and “thirst-trappers” of modern media, online creators are continuing to spread to the cores of social media, pop culture and even teenage slang. “OOTD” (Outfit Of the Day), and “GRWM” (Get Ready With Me), can often be found in the vocabulary of younger generations.
Millions of people are leaving their education and career paths as the potential for fame and fortune on the internet become increasingly realistic. Using only their devices at home, content-creators are able to spread their ideas, promote their businesses and gain vast followers. Occasionally, these creators expand their fan bases far enough to become full-grown “influencers” of popular culture, opening up opportunities for impressive profit. According to “Seventeen,” TikTok creator Charli D’Amelio can make up to $100,000 for sponsored videos. On a smaller scale, creators with niche interests such as cooking or comedy are also prevalent across social media platforms. According to “Business Insider,” “micro” influencers, or creators with under 100,000 followers, can make up to six figure salaries with social media as their full-time job.
However, as content creation becomes increasingly popular, questions rise and leave several, if not many, angry or in doubt. “I feel like this is making a lot of people who don’t do a lot of work make more money than people who do,” said sophomore Olivia McQuaid. This has become a concern recently, as many people on social media are making significantly more money than those who have traditional professions. Anyone can be a content creator, however, there is only a small percentage of people who become successful in the industry. Content creating, though fun and seemingly harmless, may actually leave a bad influence on generations, making it seem easy to become famous. “I feel like it’s setting up unrealistic expectations for the next generation and making them less inclined to work for an actual job,” said sophomore Cordelia Megowan.
“There’s definitely been a lot of positives and negatives, and influences on people and the internet, but I think it’s for the better,” said junior Adrian Bandril. While many argue the rise of influencers may set up impractical standards for the future workforce, others point out its benefits in community bonding. Finding creators who enjoy similar hobbies or speak out on topics many are passionate about can provide inspiration for life improvement and creativity. As technology becomes more prominent, it is natural that content creation will be on the rise. “If they’re making money off of it, and they like it, it’s good,” said Bandril.
