Interview with an Influencer: Katie Williams (@katiewilllly)
Katie Williams (@katiewilllly) chats about her journey to becoming a health and fitness influencer with over 39.5k followers. Find out how she garnered her following, her favourite campaigns, and how she stays healthy in both body and mind.
Katie Williams (@katiewilllly) chats with us about how she garnered an Instagram following of over 39k by sharing her fitness journey, health tips, and encouraging healthy self-development.
She began posting on Instagram four years ago and has amassed a following of over 39.5k. Katie also recently launched a podcast where she chats to the movers and shakers in the health and fitness industry.
This is just the beginning for Katie, as she is on the cusp of launching her own YouTube channel as well! We caught up with Katie to chat about her journey to becoming an Influencer and tips for staying healthy - body and mind. Check it out!
How long have you been an influencer for?
Around 3-4 years I guess. I’ve been signed with a talent agent for 2 years (Chic Talent), before that I was doing commercials for an acting agency and for the most part, it was filming my workouts training for nationals and world titles and sharing on Instagram.
What channels are you big on?
I only use Instagram as my channel, I’ve just launched my own PODCAST (so...watch this space). YouTube will be next!
What topics are you influential in?
Fitness, Health, Wellbeing and Self Development.
How did you initially start to grow your following?
Funnily enough, I used to just film and share my training sessions with my strength and conditioning coach and my following grew from people who just wanted to see my training schedule and how I kept fit!
How many hours a week do you spend working as an Influencer and all that goes with it?
Mmmmm, that’s a tough question. It’s varies!
I do a lot outside of Instagram. I probably spend about 3 hours a day on it!
Do you take the photos on your own or do you have assistance from someone else?
I use professional images where possible from shoots, events, collaborations etc - but I also have friends and family who help me keep up to date on content in between.
What equipment do you use (Camera/software/editing apps)?
I'm a simple gal! I use iPhone for myself - but on shoots obviously photographers have an range of cameras they use to shoot in different situations.
I-movie (LOL), Lightroom, Lightroom CC, Final cut pro, storeo, enlight, dropbox, and transfer.
Do you have a manager to take care of the business side of things?
Yes - I do. However, I like to create personal relationships with the client first before I loop in management. I will always do it this way :) I really like to meet the client I'm working with and will continue to do that regularly especially if its a long term ambassador role.
What are 2 of your favourite posts that you’ve ever done and why?
Hitting back at the key board warriors ^^ this one made me laugh. Never let the opinions of others effect you, they don't know you, and TBH if they aren’t friends it's not important..LOL
Ninja post. This made me feel like I could inspire people to take a risk. Take on a challenge and not be so afraid to fall.
Do you use any tools to help you manage your account?
Just Instagram statistics. More importantly, I use tools to manage my mind - For example meditation!
Do you know the demographics of your following?
Yes! 61% women. 39% men. 24-35 biggest age bracket. Sydney is most popular.
How has your experience been working with brands?
Amazing, I stay in touch with the brands that I've worked for, a lot of the people in the industry have become friends of mine.
What are some of your favourite collaborations and why?
I was the first female ambassador for Aldi, this was a huge moment for me. A nation-wide campaign for 12 months. Myself and Tim Robards had a shoot every month for catalogue, digital and all the fitness apparel and gym equipment. To partner with such a huge brand was overwhelming, I'm still grateful for the opportunity.
Aussie Bodies - It was a very proud moment for me. It was a brand I genuinely loved and used everyday.
What are some dream brands you would like to work with?
- Bear Cottage - Children's hospital
- Blackmores
- Beats by Dre
- Asics / Nike
- Mercedes Benz
What advice would you give to brands looking to work with influencers?
Aim for quality not quantity followers. Partner with people who are qualified. Partner with people who genuinely love your brand! Allow the influencer to share their ideas and use them as much as possible with content ideas. I've worked closely with clients because 2 minds are better than 1 and they know their audience better than you do. 😉
How do brands generally contact you?
They usually contact me with an email or direct message on Instagram.
What advice would you have for someone wanting to become an influencer?
Find your talent and passion first. Share that to inspire and influence people. If you have a following already - Use your voice.
