In the past few decades, the rise of social media has given birth to a new type of celebrity – the “internet famous” influencer. These individuals have garnered a massive following through their online presence and are now considered a new class of people in the digital age. With their large followings and lucrative brand partnerships, these influencers have become the new “it” people in society. In this article, we will explore the rise of influencers and their impact on our society.
But first, who exactly are these influencers? They are ordinary people who have grown their online presence through their content creation on various social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. They have amassed a large following and have become highly sought after by brands for their ability to influence consumer behavior and promote products or services to their followers. These influencers can be bloggers, vloggers, gamers, or even self-made entrepreneurs.
One of the key reasons for the rise of influencers is the democratisation of fame that social media has brought about. In the past, fame was reserved for a select few who had to go through traditional media channels to gain recognition. However, with the rise of social media, anyone with a smartphone and internet connection can potentially become famous. This has created a level playing field where individuals can showcase their talents, personalities, and lifestyles to a global audience.
The influencer phenomenon has also changed the traditional definition of fame. In the past, fame was often associated with actors, musicians, or athletes. But now, influencers have become equally if not more famous than these traditional celebrities. They have built their personal brand and have a loyal fan base who follow their every move and trust their recommendations. This has given them a level of influence and power that was previously only reserved for A-list celebrities.
But what sets influencers apart from traditional celebrities is their relatability. Unlike celebrities, influencers are seen as more authentic and approachable. They share their personal lives, struggles, and opinions with their followers, which creates a sense of connection and trust. This authenticity and personal touch make their followers feel like they are part of their inner circle, making them more receptive to their recommendations. This further solidifies their position as powerful influencers in the digital world.
The influence of these “internet famous” celebrities goes beyond just promoting products. They have also become powerful voices on social issues and have the ability to shape public opinion. With their massive following and reach, they have the power to bring attention to important causes and raise awareness on social and political issues. This has given them a platform to use their influence for the greater good and impact society positively.
However, with great power comes great responsibility, and this is especially true for influencers. As public figures, they are under constant scrutiny, and their every move is closely monitored by their followers. This has led to a rise in the concept of “cancel culture” where any problematic behavior or past mistakes of an influencer can result in them being “cancelled” by their followers. This has put pressure on influencers to constantly maintain a certain image and hold themselves accountable for their actions.
Moreover, the rise of influencers has also raised questions about the authenticity and transparency of their content. With lucrative brand deals and partnerships on the line, some influencers have been accused of promoting products that they do not genuinely use or believe in. This has led to a growing demand for transparency and disclosure from influencers, with some platforms even implementing guidelines for sponsored content. As influencers continue to evolve and adapt, it is important for them to maintain the trust and authenticity that has made them successful in the first place.
In conclusion, the emergence of the “internet famous” influencer has created a new type of celebrity in the digital age. They have disrupted the traditional definition of fame and have become powerful voices in society. With their relatable personalities and ability to influence consumer behavior, they have become sought after by brands and have created a new class of people in our society. However, with great power comes great responsibility, and it is important for influencers to use their influence for the greater good and maintain transparency and authenticity in their content.
