The De-Influencing Trend: A Distraction from Real Issues?
My Question Is: ISN'T “DE-INFLUENCING” STILL INFLUENCING?
What is De-Influencing?
De-influencing refers to the process of softening the influence of someone on another person, product or group. While the act of deinfluencing may involve some form of influence, (such as showing how things can work or look), the goal is to reduce or erase the influence.
So technically speaking, de-influencing still is some form of influence. But it is focused on canceling a previous influence rather than pushing a new narrative. Therefore, it can be considered a different concept from traditional influence.
from Blogger to Influencer: My Journey in the Social Media Industry
As a blogger and now a social media creator, I have seen the growth of the industry. Back when I started my first blog in 2005, creators were not paid. I was simply sharing my thoughts and experiences as a mother, and people found my content real and valuable. I started my blog MommyReview, long before creators were even a thing. It was just a site for me to share my thoughts and opinions on products that I liked or didn't like. Fast forward 9 years… I decided to go back to school to become a therpaist so I put my blog behind me.
However, I found myself drawn back into the world of social media in 2020. People started following me and my sister for my recommendations. We shared how to use promo codes on Amazon and how to find more cheap options of high-end brands. Before I knew it, I had amassed over 100,000 followers in just two years, all through organic growth. But the reason for my growth was simple: honesty and truthfulness. I have always based my sharing on telling the truth, whether I love a product or not. I make sure to remind my followers to do their own research . If some thing seems too good to be true, it usually is.
We're here today in 2023, and the social media landscape has changed majorly. Influencers are now a major force in the marketing world. . And while there are many creators who use their platforms responsibly and authentically… There are also those who put profit over honesty and transparency.
The Power of De-Influencing: A Call to Action for Social Media Creators
That's why I have always made it a point to be upfront with my followers about my collaborations with brands. I never want to compromise my integrity or my audience's trust in me. I always disclose when content is sponsored and I express my honest opinion.
Personally, I dislike the term “influencer,” as it implies that I am trying to sway opinion. That's not what I do. I have worked with brands in the past, but I always make sure to voice my honest opinion. Even if it means turning down a paid opportunity. Unfortunately, many will be motivated by money and it can be heart breaking to watch.
Using Our Platforms for Positive Change: Advocating for Systemic Change as Social Media Creators
But beyond the influencer industry itself, there are much bigger issues at play that deserve our attention and activism. The de-influencer trend, while perhaps well-intentioned, can sometimes feel like a distraction from the more important social and political issues.
Instead focusing on the actions of individual influencers, we should be using our platforms to advocate for systemic change. We should be speaking out against injustices.
Why are we focusing on de-influencing bloggers and social media personalities when there are much bigger issues at hand?
We should be focusing our energy on de-influencing the oil industry, medical insurance companies, food companies, and big pharma. Those are the real life influencers that are changing our daily lives. Let's make some noise about things that really need to change, eh hmmm like women's rights and health–care.r
As a psychotherapist, I am keenly aware of the power of collective action. There is importance of using our voices to effect change. We can all play a role in creating a better world. I challenge creators to use their influence to raise awareness and inspire action.
As someone who has a career outside of social media, I'm not fearful of losing sponsors. I feel that many influencers have become greedy and put profits ahead of honesty. It's time to shift the focus away from petty influencers and towards the real issues that affect us all.
What are your thoughts about de-influencing? Tell us below.
So while the de-influencer trend may be a passing fad… Our responsibility to speak out for what's right and just is a life-long commitment. Let's use our social media to create positive change, not just for ourselves, but for future generations as well.
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