The term ‘influencer’ has become one of the buzzwords of the 21st century, as it applies to people who have gained a significant following online, especially on social media platforms. For many, being an influencer seems like the ultimate dream, with expensive clothing, jet setting around the globe, and enjoying fame to boot. However, with such a dream usually comes a lot of downsides to being an influencer, things that many aspiring influencers may not expect or even realise. In this article, we will discuss some of the top downsides to being an influencer.
Unsavoury Messages from Followers
One of the most prominent downsides of being an influencer is receiving unsavoury messages from followers. Whilst many messages from admirers can be positive and may help to show an influencer’s success, there will be some messages that are much less recognizable. Some messages can be completely inappropriate, when some may be rude or even aggressive. Of course, influencers can simply ignore or block such messages, but even that can be draining.
Invasive Paparazzi
When people hear the word ‘influencer’ they may often think of the lavish lifestyles of the top influencers around the world. However, what is often not shared with the public is how draining having photographers and paparazzi on their tails can be. This invasive behaviour can be a real drain on an influencer’s mental energy, while they may also feel like they are losing their privacy and so become reluctant to share any photos of their private life.
The Pressure of Always Being ‘On’
Having a successful platform as an influencer means one must always be ‘on’. This can mark an incredible amount of pressure on an influencer, as it leaves no time for rest. Influencers may need to be creating content, doing emails for sponsors or supporters, engaging with comments, as well as attending events or networking.
The Need to ‘Stay On Brand’
As an influencer gains success, it is essential to remain ‘on brand’ with the majority of their posts, meaning their content must have a massive emphasis on their brand and focus. The consequence of this is that influencers can lose creative freedom, as their entire personae must remain consistent and in line with their brand image. This can take away the ability to be spontaneous or express emotions, depriving the influencer of any authenticity.
Dependency on Platforms
Whilst being an influencer can certainly bring fame and fortune, it also means an influencer must stay very much in with the zeitgeist of what ever platform they use. Changes in algorithms and viewers’ preferences can lead to a sudden dip in views, making an influencer almost totally dependent on the whims of the app or platform.
Competitiveness of the Field
The world of influencers is highly competitive, as everyone battles to be ahead of the competition. This bears both the positive and negative impacts on influencers, as it facilitates an immense drive and ambition to be the best. On the other hand, it can also become draining, as it offers no space for failure and there’s a constant pressure to remain at the top of your game.
Jumping on Trends and Conversations
As a way to stay relevant and ‘plugged in’ to the latest conversations, an influencer may be asked to jump on certain trends. This can be seen as a positive, but if the influencer has no interest or connection to the topic then it can be seen as an artificial association and result in an influencer just appearing to ‘follow the trend’.
Constantly Coping with Criticism
Finally, influencers must be able to face up to criticism when it occurs. Even if they are doing something they are proud of, they may still be faced with negative comment in response to their content, something that any influencer must learn to cope with. Additionally, influencers should prepare mentally for the danger of slander and hoaxes, that can be created by malicious rivals or audience members.
Becoming an influencer can definitely lead to an incredibly successful and fruitful career, but it is also important to understand its downsides. From constant scrutiny and criticism to the ever-changing algorithms and trends, it can be a daunting prospect. Thankfully, understanding such drawbacks can help an aspiring influencer to become more prepared for any difficulties that may arise during their journey.