Michelle Phan, an original YouTube star, has been able to translate her online fame offline through a makeup brand, beauty subscription service, book deal, and the creation of a digital network to scout and manage new online talent. Millennials find online stars more approachable and authentic than professionals and Hollywood A-listers, a reason why these days “any company that has money is approaching YouTubers.” Since 80% of YouTube traffic comes from outside the U.S., stars like Phan are planning to expand to branded partnerships in global markets. (Mercury News)
