Influencers have been pushing cosmetics, clothes, personal technology, and supplements for years, but a new generation is telling people what not to buy instead. "De-influencing" is what they call it.
The Anti-heroes of Social Media
De-influencers are the anti-heroes of social media of the moment, navigating through sponsored content to inform users about their options and arm them with knowledge. They represent a wave of modern consumerism that seeks not only convenience or flashiness in products but also reliability and quality. This trend strives for insight instead of influence when it comes to decisions on what we buy today - getting us one step closer towards an informed society!
Social media has significantly changed the way we interact, allowing influencers to wield a great amount of power over their followers. Unfortunately this can often lead to misleading messages and purchase decisions that are inappropriate for individuals' wants or needs. The current culture consistently points out how unattainable many influencer lifestyles really are; emphasizing an unrealistic materialism deeply rooted in consumerism.
More Authentic Representation of Products
De-influencers are aiming to provide a more authentic representation of products and services, challenging the traditionally 'perfect' image that is often seen on social media. They motivate their followers to think critically about what they see online, determining whether it's truly realistic or not - as well as prioritizing values over materialistic offerings.
De-influencers strive to bring about a transformation in the influencer landscape, by educating their followers on important issues such as unethical product promotion and misleading lifestyle portrayal. Through this awareness, these experts seek to empower people with informed decisions when it comes to what they consume and support – liberating them from any manipulative tactics being employed.
De-influencers can be a powerful tool for counteracting the negative effects of influencer culture, but be aware! - they also pose significant brand risks. Besides promoting a more authentic, balanced, and empowering view, they also educate their followers on the dangers of consumerism and superficiality. Their goal is to create a more conscious and informed online community, where people can think critically and make better decisions.
What is the Origin of the Trend and When Did It Start?
Although de-influencing is a relatively new term, TikTok users have spoken candidly about products for some time. Bethenny Frankel, entrepreneur and former Real Housewife, has put the concept of de-influencing on the map. Last year Ms. Frankel decided to try products made popular by influencers for herself - in search of that elusive glow they promised her! Unfortunately she found many didn't live up to their hype and instead began seeking out partnerships with brands whose quality already aligns with her standards. Her refusal to post paid reviews from companies which approach her stands as a reminder that authentic recommendations still carry weight when it comes to consumer's decisions about what new products are worth trying out for themselves!
Why is It Taking Off Now?
With so many influencers on social media touting products, it's become increasingly difficult for consumers to decide which reviews to trust and if a product is even worth their money. This issue became very stark last week when popular TikTok makeup artist Mikayla Nogueira was accused of wearing fake eyelashes in an endorsed post from L'Oréal mascara - neither her nor the company had any comment regarding these accusations. While TikTok holds strict regulations in place against false or misleading content being presented as part of ads, this incident serves as yet another reminder that thorough research into both endorsements and purchases should always be done before buying anything.
De-Influencers 2023, the Bottom Line
Influencers are reclaiming the connection with their supporters in a world where trust in advertisements is eroding. In contrast to traditional brand promotion, they leverage raw honesty by engaging in authentic interactions online.