The term influencer gets used a LOT, but do you know what one really is? What defines an influencer? Does the term get attributed to people with a certain following? Does the term kick in at a certain follower number? A certain mission? How does it work? And for those who are, what are you going to use your influence for?
What’s an influencer?
When it comes to being an influencer, how do we make a difference for good? What are good and less than good ways to use our influence ‘status’ online and beyond? Let’s explore a few untruths, shall we…
‘It’s all about the follower number’ – no, no it isn’t. It’s about the engagement. Of course, brands want to work with people who have good followings as that means that whatever they’re promoting gets in front of more people, but if it’s an inauthentic following, it’s useless. Bots and fake account won’t care what you’re doing or saying, so if you focus solely on the number, you’re on a route to nothing. A good engaged following is the key…
‘It’s just people getting free stuff’ – no, it’s not. Or at least it shouldn’t be! Yes, as part of an influencer arrangement, the person will often receive product, but it’s not without anything coming from their side! People receiving the ‘stuff’ described will also have to create and plan content to share that product or service with their audience, so there is a payment there, even if the product is given for free.
‘Influencers can say what they want!’ – well, technically, yes, but for the good of the community and your ‘brand’, please do think about what you’re saying and use your influence for good. This can be through raising awareness for good and important causes and sharing products and services you really love.
‘Click bait and scaremongering is good for engagement’ – yes they are, but for ALL the wrong reasons. If the only way you can make people engage with you is through scaring the living daylights out of them, then you need to revise your entire strategy. Because it’s a weak one.
Influencers can be so good for businesses but also the world at large when power is used for good… so let’s do that, shall we?
