#RealTalk is part of an ongoing column for the WiB blog in conjunction with our discussion sessions in real life where we take a look at different topics in hopes of shining a light on prevalent issues in marginalized communities.
From Instagram to Youtube, the average Gen- Z encounters an influencer on almost every social media platform that they choose to be on. Broadly speaking, “Influencers” are people who build a reputation for their knowledge and expertise on a specific topic on social media. As a full-time profession, influencers make regular posts about their preferred topic which generate followings of enthusiastic, fan-like people who start paying close attention to their work. But is it really as simple as that? Let’s find out!
Today, almost no influencer is being their authentic selves and (needless to say) see their online presence as a source of income and popularity more than a form of expression of what they love doing. As a result, in creating those aesthetically pleasing pictures that fill your feed, there exists a team of editors, managers, lawyers, etc who are in pursuit of debunking your preferences!
“Almost everyone uses some form of outside help, whether it’s the resources provided by a manager, a network, an agency, an editor, a lawyer, etc.” (Ward, 2018)
However, the research and analysis that goes behind each post vary according to what the influencer specializes in, although outside help is almost always guaranteed!
As a result of these planned promotions, there have been *several* instances where influencers’ PR stunts have been unintentionally exposed- and boy, did they cause a scandal!
For instance, when Gabriel Grossman surprised his girlfriend Marissa Carey with an internationally Instagrammed broadcast of their proposal and wedding, onlookers soon realized the entire wedding appeared to be an elaborate marketing scheme when The Atlantic shared a 'pitch deck' that was allegedly used by the couple to garner sponsors for their marriage.
This is just one of many examples of people going to extreme lengths to “live the influencer life”. However, all of this inevitably takes a toll on the person and often affects their mental health adversely. In a survey conducted by Insider, 350 influencers were asked about their jobs and lifestyles, and 47% felt that working as an influencer impacted their mental health.
Thus, as is taught by many, conscious consumerism involves adopting a “buying” behavior that involves close analysis of what you wish to associate yourself with, which is precisely what we (as young users of social media) must do! It is important to understand that ultimately the grass is always greener on the other side no matter how famous you are. So, be your own influencer, or choose simplistic, healthy ways of living as the inspiration behind your own way of life :)