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🇮🇩 Indonesia /Culture & Society

Don't Be Discouraged by Zero Followers! Tips for Starting a Career as a Content Creator

From Republika · () Indonesian

Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Named sources Context piece
  • Novita Sari, a content creator from East Java, built a following of 11.5 million on TikTok and 35.8 thousand on Instagram starting from scratch.
  • She began creating content out of curiosity in early 2020, focusing on short dramas and slow-motion videos that resonated with audiences.
  • Sari's first endorsement deal was for Rp50,000, demonstrating how a hobby can become a profitable venture with consistency and learning.

Novita Sari, a content creator from Sampang, East Java, has transformed a hobby into a lucrative career, amassing 11.5 million followers on TikTok and 35.8 thousand on Instagram. Her journey began in early 2020, driven by curiosity about the trending TikTok app. Initially, she had no aspirations of fame or income, simply seeking entertainment and a creative outlet.

Initially, I just did it for fun because TikTok was viral at the time. My goal was just entertainment. I never thought I would become famous, have millions of followers, or earn money from TikTok.

— Novita SariSari described her initial motivations for starting on TikTok, emphasizing her lack of expectation for fame or financial gain.

Sari consistently uploaded videos using a basic mobile phone and her creativity, even when her account had zero followers. She focused on making entertaining content, particularly short dramas and slow-motion videos, which were popular at the time. This strategic focus proved successful, with her videos frequently appearing on the 'For You Page' (FYP), attracting millions of viewers and shares.

Her growing popularity opened doors to brand collaborations. Sari's first endorsement opportunity was a modest Rp50,000 deal, a moment she cherished as validation that her passion could generate income. She emphasized that consistency and a willingness to learn were key to her success, allowing her to build a substantial following from the ground up.

I started everything from zero followers. What I thought about at the time was just making content that could entertain. Apparently, little by little, people started watching, following my account, until the number of followers kept increasing.

— Novita SariSari explained her early process of content creation and follower growth, highlighting her focus on entertainment.

Sari's story serves as an inspiration, particularly for aspiring creators. She highlights that starting with nothing, like zero followers, is not a barrier. Her dedication to creating engaging content and adapting to trends demonstrates the potential for significant growth and financial reward in the digital content creation space.

My first endorsement was only Rp50,000. I was very happy at the time because it turned out that my hobby of making content could generate money.

— Novita SariSari shared her experience receiving her first paid collaboration, viewing it as a significant milestone.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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