So you have this great brand and product. You are looking for ways to market it, but where do you start? One of the most coveted ways to create brand exposure is through word of mouth. This is traditionally done through a person who has had a great experience and recommends your brand to a friend.
The rise of social media has exponentially increased the reach of these individuals to spread the word. We recommend you get ahead of this message as soon as possible. The key is to determine who the social media influencers are for your brand.
What is a Social Media Influencer?
An influencer is someone who has a large social media following, whether it be on Pinterest, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or more. Their fans look to them for advice as well as the latest trends or products in their respective niches. Influencers will also likely have several platforms to reach their audience such as:
- A vlog (video blog) like YouTube or the Vine
- A traditional blog or newsletter
- Other social media platforms (like Buzzfeed, or even Reddit)
What A Social Media Influencer Can Do for Your Brand
The Pew Research Center released a study a year ago that stated the average Facebook user has 338 friends. Recently, the IDC recently released a report that revealed the average person checks Facebook at least 14 times per day.
A well-chosen influencer not only has a clear and passionate voice, but they have amassed a following that is above and beyond any average statistic. Pairing your brand with several key influencers can build massive brand loyalty, positive media exposure, and help drive your brand into the limelight.
Keep in mind that larger amounts of followers does not necessarily mean a higher ROI. The right influencer has a specific fan base and is genuine, honest, and excited about the brands that they endorse. This kind of exposure is integral to creating an online presence that will last.
The Beginning of a Beautiful Friendship
The fans of these influencers are also much more targeted than say, your co-workers circle of friends. These people have chosen, or “opted” to follow this particular influencer. Thus you will need to consider the content of the influencer to your brand.
- Are you looking for social media followers, likes, tweets or shares?
- Does your brand require blog articles and detailed reviews?
- Perhaps you have a visual brand campaign in mind and would benefit from a Pinterest or Instagram influencer?
It is important to determine the most effective marketing strategy before approaching a social media influencer so that you can narrow down your preferred medium and platform.
Think Long Term
It is important to remember in this high turnaround industry that at the end of the day you are still building relationships. You want your brand to be well known and respected, and hopefully grow into a household name. If you chose a social media influencer that is an authority in their field, and also believes strongly in your brand and product, you will be guaranteed returning customers for life.
