What Exactly Is a Social Media Influencer

Are you looking for a way to get more eyes on your brand? You’ve built your website and created social media pages. What’s next?

Investing in a social media influencer might be the answer. First, you need to understand what is an influencer and what is influencer marketing. Next, you’ll want to find the one that’s right for your business.

Too often people seek-out an influencer based on their number of followers. It doesn’t take long to realize that one million followers don’t equate to one million people interested in your product.

Keep reading to learn more about influencers and how they can help give your brand and your profits, a boost.

 

Who Is Not a Social Media Influencer?

Anyone can market themselves as a social media influencer. The truth is, just because someone posts a lot of pictures and goes Live three times a day, does not make them an influencer.

Influencers are salespeople. They understand you’re coming to them to promote your brand. Plus, you are expecting them to drive traffic to your page.

There are a lot of people on sites like Facebook or Instagram, that buy followers, and some copy content from other influencer’s page. These are not the influencers or people you want to connect with.

 

Celebrities Make Great Influencers

Some of the biggest names when it comes to social media influencers are celebrities, athletes, and YouTube creators with large platforms.

Because of their huge followings, they command huge per-post fees. Kylie Jenner, the top celebrity influencer, is estimated to earn well over a million dollars per post to promote a brand on her Instagram page.

As a business owner, your ROI expectations need to align with your overall goal.

 

Local Influencers Can Help

Brick and mortar institutions can benefit from local influencers. These are people well known in the community. They range from professional athletes to individuals that have gone on to become famous in their chosen field.

The benefit of using someone local as an influencer is they are more inclined to agree to an in-person event. More people will attend a grand opening or local premiere if they know a hometown hero is promoting it on social media.

 

Utilizing People With Streaming Platforms

YouTube has over 2 billion users worldwide. Many creators on YouTube were able to grow their following on Facebook and Instagram. Since YouTube is a streaming service you can have your video and image marketing incorporated into their shows.

Radio personalities are so good social media influencers because many radio stations now stream live.

Streaming platforms are a less expensive influencer marketing tool than hiring a celebrity. It allows for better targeting because you’ll understand the exact audience tuning in to the streams.

 

Choose Your Influencers Wisely

A social media influencer can play a pivotal role in your overall marketing plan. Do your industry market research on how to choose the right influencers.

Are you working with a limited budget? Check-out our marketing section for great tips on creating advertising posts on your own.