What Exactly Is Influencer Marketing?

Have you ever tried new restaurant because a friend raved about it? Perhaps you asked co-workers for a hotel recommendation for a business trip. If so, then you relied on word-of-mouth marketing to help you make a purchase decision. Your friend told you about an experience, and you considered it because you trusted their opinion. This is referred to as word-of-mouth marketing. Word-of-mouth marketing drives sales, and it does so very effectively!

Shoppers also trust the opinions of consumers they do not know. For example, have you ever consulted TripAdvisor before booking a hotel or cruise? I have! I want to see the reviews for of off-brand and sometimes even name brand venues. People are willing to look to each other, reviewers, bloggers, vloggers, and celebrities for recommendations. This is called influencer marketing.

what is Influencer marketing is the process companies work with key brand ambassadors to promote their product, service, or brand. They may work with one famous celebrity in a pricey campaign comprised of TV spots, press releases, and social media. However, many brands are enlisting the services of small and medium influencers though social media and blogging campaigns.

Influencer marketing is the fastest-growing online customer-acquisition channel. I had a hard time nailing down this statistic but let us call it at about 65% to 75% of marketers plan to include influencer marketing in their strategy this year. That may include actually paying an influencer. However, it may likely mean working with a group of influencers who are compensated with early product testing, free samples, and advance information!