The term “demure” has become a popular descriptor for various things online, sparked by a TikTok video from creator Jools Lebron. This trend has caught the attention of celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Penn Badgley, as well as the White House, who used the term to highlight recent achievements. Lebron, a transgender woman, has seen a significant rise in fame and is now able to finance the rest of her transition thanks to her viral content.
Monetizing TikTok fame can be a complex process, involving a combination of tactics such as brand sponsorships, merchandise sales, fundraising during livestreams, and more. Building a social media presence across various platforms has become crucial, especially with uncertainty surrounding the potential ban of TikTok in the U.S. Experts emphasize the need for creators to diversify their income sources and be prepared for fluctuations in earnings.
While achieving viral fame on social media can lead to financial opportunities, sustaining a long-term career as a creator is challenging. Many creators experience periods of significant income followed by droughts, akin to the gig economy. Burnout is also a common issue, as creators navigate the pressures of producing content, maintaining brand relationships, and dealing with online harassment.
The landscape for online creators is ever-evolving, with increasing demand for content and platforms catering to aspiring creators. Companies are focusing on marketing through these platforms, with TikTok currently dominating the market. Aspiring creators are advised to start creating content and see where it leads, as success can be unpredictable.
