View source for Social media influencer

'''Social media influencer''' is an individual who has established credibility, visibility, and a dedicated following on one or more [[social media]] platforms such as [[Instagram]], [[YouTube]], [[TikTok]], [[Twitter]], or [[Facebook]]. These individuals influence the opinions, behaviors, and purchasing decisions of their audience through content sharing, endorsements, and personal branding.

== Overview ==
Social media influencers are often considered a type of [[microcelebrity]], using online platforms to build personal brands and engage with followers. They may specialize in niches such as fashion, beauty, fitness, travel, gaming, technology, or lifestyle. Influencers generate content in the form of photos, videos, live streams, or written posts to connect with audiences and promote products, services, or causes.

== Types of influencers ==
Influencers can be categorized by the size of their audience or by the content they produce:

* '''Mega-influencers''': Usually celebrities with millions of followers and high-profile brand collaborations.
* '''Macro-influencers''': Individuals with hundreds of thousands to millions of followers; often full-time influencers.
* '''Micro-influencers''': People with 10,000 to 100,000 followers, known for strong engagement and niche expertise.
* '''Nano-influencers''': Individuals with fewer than 10,000 followers but often a very loyal and targeted audience.

== Marketing and impact ==
Brands and marketers collaborate with influencers to reach specific demographics and build trust with potential customers. Influencer marketing has become a major component of digital advertising strategies. Some influencers monetize their content through sponsorships, affiliate marketing, merchandise, and platform ad revenue.

== Criticism and regulation ==
The rise of influencers has also led to concerns over transparency, authenticity, and consumer protection. In many countries, influencers are now required to disclose paid promotions and sponsored content in accordance with advertising laws and guidelines.

== See also ==
* [[Influencer marketing]]
* [[Social media marketing]]
* [[Microcelebrity]]
* [[Vlogger]]
* [[Instagram]]
* [[TikTok]]

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Social media]]
[[Category:Internet terminology]]
[[Category:Marketing occupations]]
[[Category:Advertising]]
[[Category:Influencer marketing]]