There is a Significant Gap between an Influencer and Actually Influencing

In today's digital landscape, the term "influencer" has become synonymous with social media stardom and the promise of exposure. However, there is a growing gap between being an influencer and actually influencing. Many self-proclaimed influencers believe that by simply offering exposure on their platforms, professionals should offer hefty discounts or even provide their services for free. This entitled approach, coupled with misaligned brands and disparate target audiences, often falls short of achieving true influence. I have a friend—a successful business owner who has recently become an actual influencer. Her unwavering integrity, commitment to representing brands with a stunning collection that resonates with her personal style and her refusal to accept gifted items or expect anything in return make her an exemplar of true influence.?

The Illusion of Influence: With the rise of social media, a new breed of influencers has emerged—individuals who leverage their online following to secure discounts or free services. They approach professionals with an entitled mind-set, believing that the mere offer of a shout-out or feature should warrant preferential treatment. However, this approach fails to acknowledge the fundamental principles of fair compensation and mutually beneficial partnerships. Influencer marketing should be based on a genuine alignment of values, vision, and target audience, not on entitlement or unrealistic expectations.?

The Power of Integrity: My friend, ( let’s call her Sarah), is a beacon of integrity in the influencer world. As a successful business owner, she understands the value of fair compensation and the importance of maintaining her integrity. Sarah has made it clear that she will only represent brands with a collection that truly resonates with her personal style. Items she talks about are often not gifted, as she believes in the principle of fair exchange. Her commitment to integrity ensures that her recommendations are authentic and unbiased, allowing her to genuinely influence her audience.?

Resonance and Connection: Influence is not merely about numbers or fleeting attention; it is about resonance and connection. Sarah recognises that true influence stems from building a genuine connection with her audience. By carefully curating the brands she represents and selecting products that align with her personal style, she creates a consistent and authentic brand image. This authenticity resonates with her followers, who trust her recommendations and see her as a relatable figure. Sarah's influence is not based on entitlement or a sense of privilege, but on her ability to genuinely connect with her audience through shared values and experiences.?

The Value of Independence: Not accepting gifted items or expecting anything in return demonstrates a commitment to independence and unbiased influence. This decision allows her to maintain her objectivity and?

ensures that her recommendations are based solely on her genuine belief in the brands she represents. By investing in the products herself, she upholds her integrity and the integrity of her influence, as she can confidently vouch for the quality and value of the items she promotes.?

Setting the Standard for Genuine Influence: This approach serves as a model for true influence in the digital age. There is an understanding that influence goes beyond numbers and superficial exchanges. True influence requires integrity, authenticity, and a genuine commitment to making a positive impact. Sarah's success as a business owner has provided her with the foundation and understanding necessary to navigate the influencer space with professionalism and a sense of purpose.?

Closing the Gap: In a landscape where entitled influencers abound, it is crucial to acknowledge the significant gap between being an influencer and actually influencing. True influence is not based on entitlement, but on integrity, authenticity, and the ability to connect with an audience on a deeper level. My friend Sarah's journey exemplifies the essence of genuine influence—an unwavering commitment to representing brands with resonance.?

As professionals and brands, let us shift our focus from the illusion of influence to the substance of genuine impact. By partnering with influencers who embody integrity and align with our values, we can create meaningful connections, build authentic relationships, and ultimately achieve true influence in our respective industries.?

By Jennifer Patrice Celebrant?