The Internet is teeming with ways to earn, and one of the most efficient is simply interacting with social media. From the numerous tasks available, earning money for social media following is gaining traction, more so, in the UK. It is one of the most passive ways of earning money from home without any barriers to entry in terms of skill or even time. But how does it work, and how do you get started on it?
While being paid to engage with social media is still new, let us dive deeper into the possibilities. This post explains how people can earn by following accounts like brand pages and also outlines the tools that they can use, ways to maximize earnings, and how to avoid perpetrators to come out of the experience successfully. If you want to make a bit more during your wallet-free moments, or want to test the waters with a sideline, this guide serves that very purpose.
The Basics of Getting Paid to Follow Social Media Accounts
When companies and influencers grow their online presence, they often need followers, likes, and engagement to enhance their credibility. A larger follower base makes their social profiles appear more popular and trustworthy, which can lead to better opportunities for them. To accelerate growth, they may turn to agencies, platforms, or directly to individuals willing to perform simple tasks like following accounts, liking posts, or commenting.
Here’s where you come in. By offering your time to follow accounts, you’re helping individuals or businesses grow their social proof. And the best part? You get paid to do it! For people in the UK, this is an accessible and easy way to dip your toes into the world of online work.
How Does It Work?
The process usually involves the following steps:
- Sign Up on Platforms Offering Social Media Jobs: Many websites and apps act as intermediaries between businesses or influencers and individuals willing to perform small tasks.
- Pick a Task: Once signed up, you can browse available jobs. Some will require you to follow specific social media accounts or like their posts.
- Complete the Task: Task instructions will usually be straightforward and involve visiting an account and hitting that “Follow” button.
- Submit Proof: Some platforms may ask for screenshots or basic confirmation to verify you’ve completed the task.
- Receive Payment: Once the task is approved, you’ll get paid—usually in cash, gift cards, or other rewards.
Sounds simple enough, right? However, there are platforms to choose from and strategies to learn if you want to maximize your earnings.
Platforms to Earn Money Following Social Media Accounts
With so many options out there, it can be tricky to know where to start. Below are some of the most reliable platforms for people in the UK to get started with social media tasks:
1. Microwork Websites
Platforms like Amazon Mechanical Turk, Picoworkers, and RapidWorkers allow users to complete various micro-jobs, including following social media accounts. Many jobs pay just a few pence, but they take seconds to complete, meaning you can stack up earnings quickly if you do enough of them.
Pros:
- Easy to sign up and start.
- A wide variety of micro-tasks available.
Cons:
- Earnings are relatively low unless you are consistent.
2. Freelancing Platforms
Websites like Fiverr and Upwork allow you to offer your services to clients. While these platforms aren’t specifically for following social media accounts, you can create gigs related to “paid social media tasks.” Many businesses hire freelancers to grow their accounts, and they’re willing to pay for it.
Pros:
- You can set your own rates.
- Opportunities for long-term clients.
Cons:
- Competitive market, so landing jobs may take time.
3. Legit Paid Surveys and Apps
Some survey platforms and apps, such as Swagbucks, ySense, and Inbox Pounds, occasionally include tasks involving social media. These platforms allow you to earn money from a mix of sources, including surveys, app testing, and following accounts.
Pros:
- Easy to use, especially for beginners.
- Earn money doing multiple tasks, not just social media ones.
Cons:
- Payment rates for social media tasks may be variable.
4. Influencer Agencies and Sponsored Task Sites
Platforms like Izea or Heepsy connect social media influencers (even micro-influencers) with brands. Here, you can find opportunities to get paid for engagement tasks like following accounts.
Pros:
- Pay tends to be higher when working with agencies.
- Often involves additional perks like free products.
Cons:
- Sometimes requires you to have a minimum number of followers on your own accounts.
5. Direct Offers in Social Media Groups
You’ll often find individuals or small businesses posting about quick social media jobs in Facebook groups or forums like Reddit. By joining these groups, you may find opportunities to earn money following accounts or completing similar tasks.
Pros:
- Can pay better than micro-work platforms.
- Sometimes offers immediate payouts.
Cons:
- Requires extra caution to avoid scams.
Tips for Maximizing Your Earnings
If you’re eager to start, here are some expert tips to help you make the most of your social media earning opportunities:
1. Sign Up on Multiple Platforms
Don’t rely on just one website or app. By signing up on several platforms, you can access more tasks and increase your overall income potential.
2. Put in Consistent Time
Earnings from following social media accounts may not be very high per task, but if you consistently complete tasks every day or week, you’ll see your income grow over time.
3. Check Payment Methods
Before signing up for any platform, make sure it pays in the currency and method that suits you. For example, UK residents may prefer platforms paying in GBP via PayPal or bank transfer to avoid conversion fees.
4. Stay Organized
Keep track of your completed tasks, submission dates, and payment statuses. This helps you avoid missed payouts or duplicated efforts.
5. Use a Separate Social Media Account
If you don’t want to clutter your personal accounts, consider creating a dedicated account just for completing these tasks.
Watch Out for Pitfalls
While this can be an easy way to earn money online, there are some potential pitfalls you should be aware of.
1. Scams
Unfortunately, not all opportunities are legitimate. Be wary of websites or individuals asking for payment upfront or requesting too much personal information. Always research the platform or person offering the job.
2. Low Pay
Some platforms pay only pennies per task, which can be frustrating. While it’s possible to make upwards of £10-£20 in a day if you put in consistent effort, these tasks are best for supplementing your income, not replacing a full-time job.
3. Account Security
Avoid giving away your own account login details or clicking on suspicious links. These could compromise your account security.
4. Terms of Service Violations
Make sure to familiarize yourself with the rules of the platforms you’re working on. Some social media sites may have restrictions against paid engagement activity.
Start Small and Scale Up
Getting paid to follow social media accounts in the UK is a straightforward way to make money online. While it won’t make you rich overnight, it’s accessible, easy to get started, and can be scaled up by adding related tasks such as liking posts, sharing content, or even running full-page promotions.
Remember to use legitimate platforms, apply the tips to boost your earnings, and avoid scams. Whether you’re a student, stay-at-home parent, or just looking for extra cash, this side hustle is a practical way to earn from home while staying connected to the digital world. Happy earning!