Influencers have become a major part of the marketing world, with brands turning to them to promote their products and services. However, there has been a recent trend of influencers going “wild” and causing controversy. But who exactly is an influencer gone wild and what does it mean for the industry?
Definition of an Influencer
Before we dive into the concept of an influencer gone wild, let’s first define what an influencer is. An influencer is someone who has a large following on social media and has the ability to influence the opinions and behaviors of their followers. They are often seen as experts in their niche and are trusted by their audience.
What is an Influencer Gone Wild?
An influencer gone wild is someone who has gained a large following on social media and has used their platform to promote products and services, but has also caused controversy through their actions or behavior. This can include anything from making offensive comments, engaging in illegal activities, or promoting harmful products.
Examples of Influencers Gone Wild
One recent example of an influencer gone wild is the YouTuber Logan Paul. In 2017, Paul posted a video of himself in Japan’s “suicide forest” where he came across a dead body and proceeded to make jokes and film it. This sparked outrage and led to him losing partnerships with major brands. Another example is the influencer Belle Gibson, who claimed to have cured her cancer through alternative medicine and used her platform to promote her wellness app. It was later revealed that she never had cancer and had scammed her followers.
Impact on the Industry
The rise of influencers gone wild has had a negative impact on the industry as a whole. It has caused brands to be more cautious when choosing who to work with and has also led to stricter guidelines and regulations for influencers. This has also affected the trust between influencers and their audience, as their actions can reflect poorly on the brands they promote.
Dealing with Influencers Gone Wild
Brands can protect themselves from the potential backlash of working with an influencer gone wild by thoroughly researching and vetting them before partnering. This includes looking into their past behavior and any controversies they may have been involved in. It’s also important for brands to have a crisis management plan in place in case an influencer they work with causes controversy.
The Future of Influencer Marketing
Despite the negative impact of influencers gone wild, influencer marketing is still a powerful tool for brands. It’s important for brands to carefully choose who they work with and to have a strong understanding of their audience. As for influencers, it’s crucial for them to be responsible and mindful of their actions, as they have a significant influence on their followers.
In conclusion, an influencer gone wild is someone who has gained a large following on social media but has caused controversy through their actions or behavior. This trend has had a negative impact on the industry, but with proper precautions and responsible behavior, influencer marketing can continue to be a successful strategy for brands. Have you encountered an influencer gone wild? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
