7 Proven Ways on How to Make Money on Instagram With 500 Followers

Find out how you can make money on Instagram Reels, even with a smaller following!

Social media platforms have become king in an ever-evolving digital landscape. They have changed the way businesses look to captivate their target audience and propel their brand forward. And when it comes to social media, Instagram really is the big guy. It offers a huge range of tools and features to mesmerize users and keep them coming back for more. There is one feature though that is making waves like no other: Instagram Reels. Here, we will look at how to make money on Instagram with 500 followers using Reels, as well as tips and tricks for making engaging reels.

What are Instagram Reels

This brilliant feature gives users the opportunity to record and edit videos up to 90 seconds long, incorporating a range of creative elements such as filters, music, text, stickers, and effects to personalize videos and let users unleash their creativity in small, snackable bites.

Users can show off their talents, share skits, create educational content, showcase glimpses of what goes on behind the scenes, and more.

They don’t just let you express yourself but also help you discover and reach new people. You know that Explore page? Well, when you post Reels, they can show up there and get you noticed by a wider audience, not just your followers. Plus, you can share Reels on your feed, in your stories, and even through direct messages, so you can really maximize your engagement and interact with others. It doesn’t matter how many followers to get paid on Instagram; it is more about the reach.

Reels have become super popular with content creators and businesses because they offer a cool way to let your creativity flow and tell awesome stories. They’re not only entertaining but also a powerful tool for promoting stuff. The best part is they’re visually exciting and really grab people’s attention.

How to Create an Instagram Reel

Before we delve into how to make money from reels on Instagram, it is probably a good idea to cover how to make them – they’ve only been around for a couple of years and many content creators are yet to harness their incredible power!

They are pretty simple to make. Once you have logged into your Instagram app on your Smartphone or tablet, you will see your home screen. At the bottom of your screen, you will see a ‘plus’ (+) icon. Click on this and choose the Reels option.

Just like making stories, creating Reels is a breeze. All you gotta do is hit that record button and let your creativity flow. And hey, don’t forget about the awesome filters you can use to spice things up! The best part is you can preview your video anytime and make changes if needed. Plus, there are loads of editing features to make your video even better, like adding cool audio, adjusting the speed, throwing in some smooth transitions, recording voiceovers, and jazzing it up with GIFs, stickers, and text.

Once you are happy with your video, you have two options: you can save the video to your device to upload later, or you can post it straight to the platform, using popular and relevant hashtags.

Types of Instagram Reels

Now you know what they are and how to make one, you may be wondering about the sort of things that you can do so that you can then find out how to make money from Reels on Instagram. Let’s take a look at some ideas on how to set up monetization on Instagram.

Before and after

Oh, your followers go crazy for those before and after videos! They’re like the ultimate way to showcase your product and give your followers a real taste of what they’re getting. And let us tell you, they’re a total game-changer, especially for the beauty industry! You can either create a series of photos or shoot a video that shows your product in action, in real time. Oh, and if you can, don’t forget to add some client testimonials to your marketing materials. They’ll really seal the deal!

Lipsyncing

You know what’s hot on the platform? Lip-syncing videos! They’re super popular and you can totally rock them. Pair them up with trending sounds and you’re golden. Now, most people use them for dancing, but hey, if that’s not your jam, no worries! You can get creative and use inspiring quotes or other popular sounds to make it your own. The key is to make it work for you and show off your style!

Lists

Who doesn’t love a killer list, right? They’re a hit with everyone! And let us tell you, when it comes to content, listicles are where it’s at. They just work like magic! And the best part is, they’re a perfect fit for this feature. Short and snappy lists paired with trending sounds? It’s a winning combo that works wonders in practically any industry. So go ahead, give it a try and watch the engagement soar!

Tutorials and how-to’s

You’ve got to love video tutorials and how-tos! They’re like the secret weapon of content marketing strategies. Sure, long-form content is awesome, but when you want to get your audience to take action, short videos with actionable recommendations are where it’s at. They’re like a little boost that pushes your audience to get things done. So why not give it a shot and see the magic happen?

Narrative

You know what really grabs your audience’s attention? Telling a story or creating specific videos that connect them on a personal level with your business. It’s like forging a special bond! And hey, Reels are perfect for this kind of stuff. You can use them to show behind-the-scenes action and give your audience a sneak peek into your world. When you spin a well-crafted tale, and throw in the right ingredients, you can boost your brand recognition and attract even more people. It’s all about building that connection and making a lasting impression!

Jump cuts

You know those super cool jump cuts in videos? They’re like the bomb! Jump cuts are when you quickly transition from one scene to another, and they work like magic. Let’s say you’re watching a how-to video. With jump cuts, you can speed up the time between each step, saving you precious time while still getting the message across loud and clear. It’s like a time-saving hack that keeps you engaged and on track.

Skits

Skits are an awesome way to bring in some laughter and show off the unique personality of your brand on social media. Think of them as creative performances that can involve lip-syncing, cool costumes, catchy music, witty dialogue, groovy dance moves, and other exciting elements. The key is to have a blast with your skit while staying true to your brand’s style and image.

How to start monetizing your Instagram Reels – 7 winning ways

Now you know all about them, let’s look at how to make money from Reels on Instagram:

1. Instagram Reel ads

When it comes to taking your Instagram game to the next level, ads are like your secret weapon. They’re incredibly powerful tools that can really make your brand shine, helping you reach a whole new crowd of customers, boosting brand recognition, and, of course, driving those sales through the roof. Many ask how can you make money on Instagram with Reels.

Using ads on Instagram comes with a bunch of awesome benefits. First off, they show up right on the Explore page, nestled in between all that organic content. This means your ad gets some serious visibility, catching the eyes of potential customers who might have otherwise missed it. Plus, you have the power to target your audience with laser precision, considering factors like demographics, behaviors, and interests. That way, you can make sure your ad is hitting the right people who are most likely to be interested in what you have to offer.

And get this—the ads can run for up to a whopping 90 seconds! That’s plenty of time to showcase your amazing products or highlight the awesomeness of your business. And let’s not forget the cherry on top: a powerful call-to-action button. This little gem can drive traffic straight to your profile or business website, boosting engagement and ultimately leading to more sales.

2. Sponsorship and brand collaborations

Making money through sponsored content is like hitting the jackpot in the world of social media. Content creators have found it to be one of the most popular ways to get money on Instagram. How does it work? Well, picture this: you, as a content creator, get the chance to showcase and promote awesome products or services in your videos, all while earning some sweet moolah. And guess what? It’s not just you who benefits from this collaboration—brands get to tap into your massive audience, reaching even more people with their offerings. It’s a win-win situation!

Let’s say you’re a makeup guru with a huge following on Instagram. Now, imagine a well-known makeup brand reaching out to you, asking you to create a sponsored post featuring their fabulous products. Can you feel the excitement? You have the opportunity to blend your mad makeup skills with your creative flair, storytelling abilities, and a deep understanding of what your audience craves, all in a visually stunning video.

Here’s the best part: your audience is going to eat it up! Why? Because the sponsored content you create aligns perfectly with your values and style. It’s a seamless integration that feels authentic and engaging. And guess who else is going to love it? Yep, the brand! They’re reaching a whole new audience through your captivating Instagram reels.

Do you know what’s even cooler? Brands are smart—they’re always keeping an eye on influencers and content creators. If you’re a desirable choice for collaboration, they’ll come knocking on your virtual door. And let us tell you, those collaborations can be super lucrative. You might have wondered how much you can make from blogging, but have you considered the potential of Reels? It’s a game-changer! Many influencers wonder how much Instagram pay for 1k followers. Well, according to Later, as a starting point, this is who makes the most money on Instagram

Nano creator (0-10k followers): $100 – $200
Micro creator (10k – 100k followers): $200 – $1000
Mid creator (100k – 500k followers) – $1500 – $5000
Macro creator (500k + followers) – $5000 – $7000 +

3. Affiliate marketing

Affiliate marketing is such a popular way of making money off Instagram. Here’s how it works: you get to earn a commission by using special affiliate links to promote products or services from other retailers. It’s like being a brand ambassador, but with a financial reward tied to actual sales.

So, let’s dive into the steps to get started. First, you’ll want to find affiliate programs that align with your niche and appeal to your audience. Once you join an affiliate program, they’ll hook you up with unique affiliate links that you can use to showcase the brand’s products or services. These links can be dropped in your captions, stories, or bio. And remember, it’s important to let your audience know that you’re an affiliate for the brand you’re promoting. Transparency is key!

Now, it’s time to create some top-notch content that really sells those items or services. Get creative and craft a story around the products to amp up those sales. And don’t forget to engage with your audience! Answer their questions, interact with their comments, and build that trust. The more you connect with your audience, the more likely they are to make a purchase.

Tracking your affiliate sales is crucial. Keep an eye on how each product or service is performing and adjust your approach accordingly. This way, you can optimize your strategy based on the insights you gather. It’s a game-changer that can seriously boost your earnings.

4. Selling products

This feature is more than just a cool tool to let your creativity shine—it’s a game-changer that empowers brands and creators to sell their products directly through videos. Imagine having the ability to include links to your awesome products right in your video description or guide your audience to a dedicated page on your website. It’s like transforming your social media profile into a virtual storefront!

Now, you might be wondering about the kind of content you should create to effectively market your products and skyrocket those sales and help you earn money on Instagram. Well, fret not! Here are a few fantastic ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Inspirational Content: Everybody loves a good dose of inspiration. Create Reels that motivate and uplift your audience, showing them how your products can enhance their lives and help them achieve their goals. Seamlessly weave your products into these inspiring moments.

Behind-the-Scenes Peeks: Give your viewers an exclusive look behind the curtain of your brand. Share the creative process, show them how your products are manufactured, or even tell the captivating story of how your brand came to be. By offering this behind-the-scenes insight, you’ll make your audience feel like insiders, aligning them with your brand values.

Sneak Peeks and Teasers: Leave your audience craving more by providing tantalizing glimpses and sneak peeks of your products or upcoming launches. Create a buzz around your brand that will have them eagerly anticipating what’s to come. This strategy keeps them coming back for more exciting updates.

Problem-Solving Content: Your audience undoubtedly faces challenges that your product can solve. Develop content that demonstrates how your product can help them overcome these obstacles. Show them the practical benefits and hook them in with content that directly addresses their needs.

User-Generated Content: Let your customers shine and become brand ambassadors! Encourage your followers to create Reels featuring your products and share their experiences. This not only fosters a sense of community and engagement but also provides real-life testimonials that boost credibility and trust. Seeing others using and loving your products is a powerful motivator for potential customers.

Don’t hesitate to have some fun and experiment with your content. Sure, there’s a certain degree of trial and error involved, and not everything will hit the mark right away. But that’s all part of the process. Over time, you’ll discover the magic formula that creates Instagram Reels that truly captivate your audience and send your sales soaring to new heights.

5. Instagram Reels Play bonus program

Instagram Reels Play is an exclusive program that’s available by invitation only, designed to take your content creation experience to the next level. If you’re lucky enough to receive an invite, it’s an exciting opportunity to make money on Instagram.

However, it’s important to note that there are rules and regulations associated with the program, and as a creator, it’s crucial to adhere to them. Your performance plays a significant role in determining how much can you make on Instagram. This could involve creating a specific number of reels to earn bonuses or reaching certain milestones in terms of views and engagements. Additionally, you might be commissioned to create reels for particular campaigns or holidays.

It’s worth keeping in mind that there may be a minimum threshold you need to reach before you’re eligible to withdraw your earnings. This ensures a certain level of accumulated earnings before you can make money off of Instagram.

So, if you’re fortunate enough to be part of the Instagram Reels Play program, make sure to familiarize yourself with the program’s guidelines and requirements. Focus on creating high-quality content, meeting performance expectations, and engaging with your audience to maximize your bonuses and payouts. It’s a fantastic opportunity to not only showcase your creativity but also get paid to post on Instagram.

6. Become a consultant

If you’ve already achieved success and have established yourself as a confident presence on social media, with a substantial following and genuine, organic engagement, you have a valuable opportunity to share your expertise and experiences of how to get paid from Instagram with others. Many aspiring influencers, new creators, businesses, and brands are actively seeking consultants who can effectively guide them in making money on Instagram.

7. Shoutouts

You can use your influence on the platform by introducing your audience to new brands and accounts, and get paid for doing so. Some of the things that you can do include:

Captions: Mention the name of the account you are giving a shout-out to in the captions. This will spark curiosity and encourage your followers to connect with the account. Quite often, this leads to further collaborations and partnerships.

Call-to-action: Tell your followers to check out and follow the account that you are endorsing, to amplify their reach. A compelling call to action can boost engagement significantly and drive results, for both you and the brand.

Top hacks to get more views

As well as asking can you make money on Instagram, you are probably wondering how to get those all-important views to make money from Instagram.

Use trending sounds

If you want to go viral on Instagram Reels, trending sounds are your friend.

When a large portion of users engage with a particular sound, Instagram algorithms do their thing and add more of the same to their feed. This in turn boosts your chance of getting more views and perhaps even new followers.

Use relevant hashtags

We all know how important SEO (search engine optimisation) is for content, and it’s no different on here. Hyper-relevant (avoid generic ones!) hashtags will help the algorithm understand what your content is about and show it to the relevant audience.

Use a compelling hook

As with any form of material, you’ll want to grab people’s attention right away.

Your hook can be amusing, shocking, aesthetically beautiful, surprising, or any combination of the above. Just make sure it piques your audience’s interest enough to keep them watching your video till the end!

You can also include a teaser for what will happen at the end of your video. This will not only catch the interest of your viewers, but it will also give them something to look forward to as they watch your video.

Use questions and answers

Followers are genuinely interested in getting to know the brands and individuals they follow on a deeper level, and one of the best ways to achieve this is by answering their questions. It’s a fantastic way to foster a sense of connection and engagement with your audience.

There are a couple of approaches you can take to address these questions. Firstly, you can make use of comments and questions that have been asked in the comments section of your previous videos. By dedicating some time in your content to respond to these inquiries, you not only provide valuable information to those who asked the questions but also demonstrate that you value and appreciate your audience’s engagement.

Another effective strategy is to create specific videos where you invite your followers to leave questions for you to answer. This proactive approach encourages your audience to actively participate, as they can leave their burning questions in the comments. By addressing these questions in subsequent videos, you give your followers an insider’s view into who you are and what matters to them.

Final thoughts

Hopefully, this comprehensive guide has provided you with some valuable ideas on how to make money on Instagram with 500 followers. Remember, the number of followers doesn’t define your potential to make money on the platform. With the right strategies and engaging content, you can create meaningful connections and attract opportunities for monetization.