The rise of influencers

1) What years did YouTube, Twitter and Instagram launch?

Facebook, twitter= 2006

YouTube= 2007


2) What is the definition of an influencer?

An influencer is a person who can impact the opinions, behaviours, or purchasing decisions of others due to their authority, expertise, or popularity, often on social media platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. 

3) Give an example of an influencer and how many followers they have. Try and add some additional information, brand associations or other statistics if you can.

One example of a prominent influencer is Charli D'Amelio, a TikTok star who gained massive popularity with her dance videos. As of November 2024, Charli has over 160 million followers on TikTok, making her one of the platform's most-followed creators. She has also expanded her influence to other platforms, with millions of followers on Instagram and YouTube.

Charli has collaborated with major brands such as Dunkin' Donuts, where she helped launch the "Charli" cold brew drink, and Puma, where she became a brand ambassador. Additionally, she has her own line of merchandise and has appeared in multiple ad campaigns. Charli's massive following and brand partnerships have made her a key figure in the influencer marketing space, with her influence spanning across fashion, food, and lifestyle.


4) How big is the influencer industry according to the article?





5) What are the problems associated with being an influencer?

  • Pressure to Maintain an Image: Constant scrutiny and the need to present a perfect life can lead to stress and mental health issues.
  • Burnout: The constant demand to create content and stay relevant can be exhausting.
  • Privacy Issues: Sharing personal life online can lead to invasion of privacy and unwanted attention.
  • Unstable Income: Income from brand deals and ads can be inconsistent.
  • Ethical Concerns: Influencers may face exploitation or backlash for endorsing products without proper disclosure or alignment with personal values.
  • Mental Health Struggles: Constant validation-seeking and comparison can affect self-esteem.
  • Toxic Fans: Some influencers deal with harmful fandoms or unrealistic expectations.
  • Legal and Financial Complexities: Navigating taxes, sponsorships, and legal disclosures can be difficult.


  • 6) Why is it suggested that audiences actually like being sold products by influencers?

    Audiences prefer product recommendations from influencers because they feel more authentic and relatable. Influencers build trust with their followers by sharing personal experiences, making their endorsements feel genuine. They also target specific niches, so product recommendations are often highly relevant. Influencers are seen as experts, and their endorsements serve as trusted advice, making followers more likely to act on them.

    7) What representation of beauty is often found on Instagram or other influencer sites?

    On Instagram and influencer sites, beauty is often represented through flawless skin, slim bodies, perfect hair and makeup, and a luxurious lifestyle. These idealized images can set unrealistic beauty standards, as many are enhanced with filters or editing.

    8) What is YOUR opinion on influencers? Are they a positive or negative influence on our society and culture? Why?

    in my opinion, Influencers can have both positive and negative impacts. On the positive side, they inspire, empower, and raise awareness for important causes. On the negative side, they often promote unrealistic beauty standards, materialism, and can contribute to mental health issues due to the pressure of constant validation. The impact depends on how they engage with their audience and the values they promote.

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