The real Impact of AI on Influencer Marketing: Beyond the Hype
AI's impact on various industries is undeniable, but what about its role in influencer marketing? The conversation around artificial intelligence in this space ranges from excitement to skepticism. Let's dive into some of the genuine aspects of AI's impact and future possibilities in influencer marketing.
The Myths and Misconceptions
It's not uncommon to hear about the development of AI influencers, virtual influencers, and CGI. While these concepts are interesting, many in the industry regard them as gimmicks. People are curious about the novelty but are often left questioning, "That's cool, but why?"
AI's Real Contribution: Discovery, Vetting, and Reporting
The real excitement around AI in influencer marketing isn't about replacing human influencers with virtual ones. Instead, it's about how AI can support and enhance the existing framework. AI's ability to compile and interpret vast amounts of data can be crucial in various areas:
- Discovery: AI can sift through millions of potential influencers, finding the perfect fit for brands based on complex criteria.
- Vetting: Analyzing an influencer's history, engagement, and relevance to ensure they align with the brand's values and goals.
- Reporting: Offering more in-depth insights and better attribution models, something many in the industry struggle with.
Enabling Technologies and Future Outlook
AI is making its presence felt in ways that aren't always immediately obvious. From eye correction in video production to keyword search and other enabling technologies, AI is slowly but steadily integrating itself into the marketing toolkit.
However, fears that AI will replace human creativity or even produce entire videos are misplaced. The future doesn't hold a landscape where AI talks to AI. It's about leveraging AI to enhance human creativity, collaboration, and efficiency.
Conclusion
AI's role in influencer marketing is evolving, but it isn't about flashy CGI influencers or sensationalist predictions. It's about understanding how artificial intelligence can work harmoniously with human creativity, intuition, and strategic thinking to streamline workflows.
AI is set to bring influencer marketing together, offering more in-depth insights, better vetting, and more robust reporting. It's not a replacement for human influencers; it's an enhancement of what's already there, steering the industry in a more targeted, insightful, and efficient direction. By embracing AI's real potential, brands can position themselves at the cutting edge of influencer marketing, benefitting from higher efficiency and ROIs.
