Difference between Social Media Influencers and Brand Advocates

A new debate stirring in the world of social media marketing has to do with the difference between brand advocates and social media influencers. Influencers might be celebrities, bloggers or pundits who have the ability to effect a behavioral change in others by mentioning a specific brand. They are sometimes driven by the offer of a free sample or perk to make a recommendation.

The brand advocate communicates consistently regarding one specific brand. The most extreme example is the paid celebrity endorsement, which may or may not have an effect on buying behavior. A true advocate, often a highly satisfied customer, can be priceless. Brand marketers love to find people who are so passionate about a product or service that they promote it solely for the sake of helping others, usually without any type of incentive.

Check out the differences between influencers and advocates. Feel free to share it, embed it, etc.