The term ‘social media influencer’ refers to an individual who uses a variety of social media platforms to air their opinions on specific brands or products. As a result, they will influence their target audience.

The concept of an influencer is simple

A social media influencer is a ‘normal’ person who represents the general public. They honestly review and discuss products and build a trust relationship with their target.

They can affect the buying of specific products by reviewing them across platforms, such as:

• YouTube,
• Snapchat,
• Twitter, and
• Instagram

They efficiently use their authority, knowledge, authenticity, leverage or position of power – within the industry – to engage with their followers.

It always starts small

Every social media influencer starts with zero followers and zero influence. This is important to remember if you’re sceptical about trying to cultivate more followers or if you can’t see yourself reaching your current, massive influencer targets.

Individual interactions make a difference

Personal interactions are valuable in almost any social media marketing strategy. Why? This is because people like to feel like they mean something.

So how can you extrapolate this learning to social media influencers? Rather than broadcasting to a big group of people all at the same time, focus on answering specific questions,. Alternatively, hone in on replying to content created by individuals in your core following. This is because if they feel listened to, valued, and respected, in all probability they will become much more loyal — and encourage their friends and followers to follow you as well.

How to become a social media influencer

Find your niche (and become obsessed)

The primary thing to do is to discover the subject that you’ll be covering across your social media channels. The more specific the question is, the better. This is because there will be much less competition in the sector.

However, try not to select a subject that is too niche. Find a topic that you’re genuinely interested in that has a following of its own, for example:

• A passion from your childhood years,
• A hobby which you’ve become really good at, or
• Your professional experience.

The main thing is to be passionate about what you’re going to talk about. Bringing passion into the conversations that you have has two significant benefits. Passion is a robust determinant of quality: the more adamant you are about your topic, the more convincing you are.

Once you know what you’re going to be speaking about stay on top of your chosen topic. Follow news and blogs as much as possible. If there’s something new that’s happening, you need to know about it.

A man (or woman) with a plan

Now, it’s time to strategise. This includes:

Making a plan with your content strategy. Creating a schedule at least a month in advance will help you to easily manoeuvre any unexpected occurrences.

Research how many times to post per day on various channels. Discover what days and times are most popular (for your audience) to post. Knowing these things ahead of time, it will help you to define your schedule going forward.

Get social

Locate the networks that fit within your industry and target audience. Start with one or two significant channels (like YouTube and Instagram). Stay consistent. This means that it’s essential not to take on more than you can bear. Nevertheless, sign up to all networks to secure your user handle.

For each network that you join, write up a substantial biography with relevant links to your other social channels or website. This will make it easier for your audience to discover you. Keep the same tone and description across all the accounts that you open.

Get in touch with the Digital School of Marketing

Also, when signing up to social networks go for the “business” account if available. These types of accounts present much better metrics to track your posts. They also allow you to create paid promotions when you’re ready. Sign up for the Digital School of Marketing’s Social Media Marketing Course to find out how you can use social media for your business.