The coronavirus pandemic and lockdown in many parts of the world have brought many industries crashing down to their knees. With more than a third of the world’s population shut in their homes, advertising agencies have had to scratch their heads really hard to find ways to keep their brands relevant even if the economy is sliding down. Some brands have turned towards using digital marketing in a more meaningful way. At a time when consumers do not and can not part with their money, brand campaigns are now moving towards educating their audience through influencer marketing.
Companies are using influencer marketing to spread awareness about health and safety instead of capitalizing on the few sale opportunities. The influencer marketing industry has also faced a sharp decline as have all other businesses but they can still make a turnaround if advertising and branding agencies utilise influencers to spread the right information.
If you’re still unconvinced, here are a few advantages of influencer marketing.
Unique Entertainment Opportunity for Brands
Customers are at home thanks to the lockdown and are spending more time online than ever before. This is the best time for any brand to explore digital marketing opportunities for engaging content. Consumers expect brands to be sensitive when offering them entertainment and influencers are just the way to go.
Spreading Awareness
COVID-19 has seen some really educational videos and content from influencers with so many celebrities endorsing the #handwash challenge by the WHO. Influencers have the advantage of creating workspaces out of their homes and can connect with audiences in a more intimate fashion. Many brands have engaged influencers to promote health-related awareness and send a positive message out to millions of consumers sitting at home.
Educate, Don’t Sell
Brands cannot risk looking insensitive to their audience by promoting the sale of their products or services unless they come under essentials. Using creativity with influencers, brands are working towards subtle product placements in video content which seems to be creating the right impact. Influencers provide a much-needed connection between the brand and its target audience even when merely educating people about their products.
Innovation Over Tradition
It is no secret that influencers have some really innovative strategies up their sleeves when it comes to brand building and product placement. We have so many brand collaborations with influencers across lifestyle, entertainment, food, beverage, fitness and beauty. Influencers have the right grasp of all social media platforms which brands may not understand in-depth.
We have seen platforms like Instagram explode with influencer-brand collaborations. Each more creative than the other. Cashing in on an influencer’s creativity and marketing skills is the next step for businesses at a time when they have no other means of advertising themselves effectively and remaining relevant.
