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Influencers! Are they the best thing since sliced bread! 

That depends on what you are looking for, aiming to gain or achieve!  

Step one, before heading down this path, it makes good sense to define your marketing strategy and determine whether engaging an influencer is the best way to achieve your campaign goals. 

There are numerous considerations and questions. Ask yourself! 

• Do the Influencers' values align with your organization? 

• How will and Influencer help you achieve your goals? 

• Are the influencer’s claims legitimate? 

   

• What can an Influencer deliver that other marketing efforts don't? 

• What are the parameters and boundaries an Influencer should work within? 

• Is your campaign compatible with the influencer's current content and other brand associations? 

• Is there any reputational risk or conflict of interest in this potential relationship? 

• Who will approve the Influencers content? 

Want to take the next step? 

• Choosing wisely is important, and equally important is having safeguards in place.  

• Involving a legitimate media agency can help you with this process.  

• They will seek the right fit for your campaign. They will also apply filters such as vetting suitability, checking their credibility, and identifying appropriate personalities. 

The negatives, what, who to avoid! 

• Influencers come with their own agendas, behaviours, attitudes and beliefs. Be aware that some may express or post views that are sexist, racist or homophobic. 

• Some engage in unhealthy, risky or illegal activities or promote extreme behaviours, such as dieting and illicit drug use. 

• They may be openly political, associated with radical groups or causes. 

• Receive sponsorship or work with other groups, brands that conflict with your campaign message or values. 

• The bottom line 

Don’t get caught up in the hype! Do your homework, consider the pros and cons!  

Closing message: 

Australia’s corporate watchdog, ASIC has issued a warning about social media finfluencers (financial influencers) suspected of providing unlicensed financial advice or making misleading claims. ASIC is cracking down on these dodgy operators, joining with overseas regulators as more young Australians turn to online for investing advice. 

The agency spokesperson raised concerns that these finfluencers use social media to promote, spruik, investment products, promising higher-than-average returns or even immediate returns. Don't get caught out!