Written by: Vickie Sullivan | February 21, 2017
New Revenue Stream for Thought Leaders?
Thought leadership has been about awareness, positioning and using our brilliance to get clients. According to some interesting stats from a recent Forbes article, though, we’re leaving money on the table. Influencer marketing is about to hit critical mass.
When reading the article, move past the examples and the mass market focus. Key quote:
“To call it ‘influencer marketing’ is really only the beginning. What’s truly happening is a broader shift, as more and more people are discovering the art of personal branding.”
Let’s ask ourselves: If association defines the value equation, does this disrupt the value of our communities? You bet it does. What we are seeing here is the monetization of personal branding.
Listen: Is influencer marketing right for you? Let’s find out.
The big change, though, is the definition of influencer: It isn’t just having a big social media following, but having one that is carefully defined. This development—strategically defined communities—will separate the “free” experts who have a Twitter account and sought-after thought leaders who enjoy both fame and fortune.
Consider this a heads-up. The market has redefined thought leadership and influence. Strategic branding will be king now, as communities are not valued by size alone. Brand yourself to these new standards, or stay trapped in the “free exposure” category.
Buckle up.
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