Do You Have to Be an Influencer to Succeed?

If you’ve ever wondered, “Do I need to be an influencer to grow my business?” — you’re not alone. We hear this question all the time from service providers and business owners just starting out. It’s a big one. And the short answer? Nope, you don’t. But let’s break it down.

Why Video Still Matters (Even If You’re Camera-Shy)

In today’s marketing world, video is key. That doesn’t mean you need to be dancing on Reels or going viral every week. But people want to see real humans doing real things. That could be you—or someone else showing your product or service. Even faceless videos with voiceovers can build connection and trust.

The truth is, video gives your audience context. A clip of your product in use or someone sharing how your service helped them? That goes way further than just a static image.

What If I Hate Being on Camera?

We get it. Not everyone wants to be the face of their brand. And that’s okay! You can still create content that connects. Here are a few ways:

  • Use a voiceover with B-roll footage (your hands, your desk, your product)
  • Ask a friend or happy client to create a video for you (hello, UGC!)
  • Do a camera-facing video using a teleprompter app like BigVu—it makes things way easier

Just like learning to drive to a new place, showing up online feels awkward at first. But it gets easier the more you do it. You don’t need to post every day—you just need to start.

Pick the Type of Marketing That Lights You Up

If Instagram makes you cringe, try podcasting. If writing’s your jam, lean into blogging. You get to choose. Your only job is to make sure people can find you, and feel connected when they do.

And don’t forget: you can reuse content. One blog post can become a week’s worth of Reels. One client video can be repurposed across your site, email, and Pinterest. Content is a tool—use it in a way that works for you.

You’re Not a Full-Time Creator—You’re a Business Owner

At the end of the day, you’re not trying to go viral—you’re trying to get leads and grow your business. Influencer-style marketing isn’t required. But creating helpful, relatable, or inspiring content? That’s non-negotiable.

If your goal is connection, sales, and growth… then yes, you need content. But no, you don’t need to be an influencer.

DON’T FORGET TO PIN IT!

28 Do You Really Need to Be an Influencer to Grow Your Business on Marketing Duo Podcast
two cell phones one with instagram and one with tiktok 28 Do You Really Need to Be an Influencer to Grow Your Business on Marketing Duo Podcast
28 Do You Really Need to Be an Influencer to Grow Your Business on Marketing Duo Podcast
two cell phones one with tiktok and one with instagram 28 Do You Really Need to Be an Influencer to Grow Your Business on Marketing Duo Podcast
women holding up two fingers in a peace sign holding a cell phone up to her eye 28 Do You Really Need to Be an Influencer to Grow Your Business on Marketing Duo Podcast
Jen Vazquez Host of Marketing Strategy Academy Podcast and founder and CEO of Jen Vazquez Media marketing agency for Pinterest

Hey there, I´m Jen

I’m a Pinterest Marketing Educator, Manager, and branding photographer.  These blog posts will include education and tips on Pinterest, marketing, content creation + repurposing, and strategies to help you grow your service-based business.

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