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The internet age has given rise to various trends and niches, but few have been as intriguing and widespread as Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response, or ASMR. Characterized by a tingling sensation starting from the scalp to the back of the neck, ASMR is triggered by certain auditory or visual stimuli. Many people have found solace in these videos for relaxation, sleep aids, and anxiety relief. But beyond its therapeutic qualities, ASMR has also unveiled a lucrative opportunity for content creators. Let’s explore how you can monetize this sensation.
Understand the ASMR Landscape
Before diving in, it’s essential to comprehend what ASMR is truly about. Familiarize yourself with popular triggers, such as whispering, tapping, and brushing. Understand your potential audience: Are they looking for relaxation, sleep aids, or perhaps study companions?
Here is a list of common ASMR’s
- Whispering: One of the most popular ASMR triggers, where the artist speaks in a soft, gentle whisper. This can be direct speaking into the microphone or storytelling.
- Tapping and Scratching: Sounds made by tapping or scratching on surfaces such as wood, plastic, or fabric. The rhythm and texture variations can be particularly soothing.
- Role-plays: These involve the ASMR artist acting out scenarios like doctor visits, spa treatments, or personal attention sessions. They are designed to create a feeling of being cared for.
- Personal Attention: Activities that simulate close personal interaction like hair brushing, makeup application, or face touching. This type often overlaps with role-play ASMR.
- Eating Sounds: Known as “mukbang” in some contexts, this involves the ASMR artist eating foods with particularly loud or distinct sounds, such as crunchy vegetables or chewy candies.
- Page Turning and Paper Sounds: The sound of paper being handled, such as turning the pages of a book or crinkling paper, can be very calming for some.
- Visual ASMR: Certain visual stimuli without sound, like hand movements, light play, or repetitive actions, can trigger ASMR for some people.
- Soundscapes: Ambient or nature sounds, like rain, wind, or ocean waves, that create a serene environment, sometimes mixed with other ASMR triggers for a multi-sensory experience.
Starting a YouTube Channel
YouTube remains the most popular platform for ASMRtists. Regular uploads of high-quality content can garner a significant subscriber base. Once you achieve the platform’s requirements, you can monetize your channel through YouTube’s Partner Program, earning money through ads. The video below has 39 million views take a peek to get an idea of what ASMR entails but keep in mind this is only one example and there are a myriad of other genres of ASMR you can do and build a substantial audience.
Selling Custom Videos
Many ASMRtists offer personalized videos tailored to individual triggers or scenarios. These custom videos can be sold directly to fans or through platforms like Patreon.
Affiliate Marketing and Product Reviews
Reviewing products, especially those related to ASMR like microphones, headphones, or props, can be a great way to incorporate affiliate marketing. Each sale made through your referral link can earn you a commission.
Brand Collaborations and Sponsored Videos
As you grow in popularity, brands may approach you to promote their products or services. ASMR videos centered around a product, without compromising the essence of ASMR, can be a win-win for both the brand and your audience.
Streaming
Platforms like Twitch, Instagram, and TikTok allow for live streaming. Engaging with your audience in real-time and creating on-the-spot ASMR can generate income through donations, ads, and subscriber payments. Look at the TikTok interview below to learn how much this person makes doing ASMR live streams.
Offering Audio Downloads
While video is the most popular format, there’s a growing demand for pure ASMR audio. Selling downloadable audio files or creating ASMR podcasts can cater to this audience.
Workshops and Training
Given the popularity and curiosity surrounding ASMR, there’s potential in offering workshops. Sharing techniques, helping budding ASMRtists set up their equipment, or understanding the nuances can be valuable.
Merchandising
With a substantial fanbase, merchandise like T-shirts, mugs, or stickers with unique designs or catchphrases can boost earnings. Also think about sleep masks, mini kits where they can try to re-create what you do, hoodies, custom videos or audios, candles, bath bombs, or essential oils. There are so many ways to create add-ons.
Prioritize Quality
The ASMR community values genuine content. Investing in good quality equipment, ensuring clear audio, and constantly innovating with your triggers will keep your audience coming back. Consistency matters. In our research, we found the most successful creators were very consistent. Their audience could rely on them to show up and provide the experience they are looking for.
Conclusion
ASMR presents a unique fusion of passion and profitability. While the potential to earn is significant, it’s essential to remain genuine and prioritize your audience’s experience. As with any business venture, consistency, quality, and engagement are key. With dedication and creativity, the world of ASMR can indeed be a melodious journey to success. Not sure if ASMR is for you? Check out our other articles where we explore other business ideas.