OPINION: Influencers, stick to social media
Brand deals, Instagram popularity and paid vacations – the glamorous life of influencers. Taking social media by storm, many of these content creators rise to popularity out of nearly nowhere, and have increasingly gained hundreds of thousands of followers across several social media platforms.
Renowned brands such as Bang Energy, Revolve, Ulta Beauty and more all maintain partnerships and brand deals with these social media stars. As advertising generates a nearly endless stream of income, these influencers have created quite the living for themselves. But thats just the beginning as their ever-growing hunger for fame and popularity leads influencers to expand into areas they clearly don’t belong in.
Famous creators Addison Rae and Olivia Ponton have made appearances in large scale programs: being featured in magazines, hosting shows and even working in broadcast journalism. But, these underqualified influencers are taking jobs that other people work their whole lives for.
In order to persue a career in broadcasting on TV, it takes a bachelor’s degree and months of experience. Internships, interim positions and jobs with large fashion brands require years of schooling and degrees as well. Each year, thousands of people dedicate their lives to auditions and interviewing for the various positions in these fields, meeting all of the qualifications. It is nothing short of ridiculous that influencers who do not meet the correct criteria for these jobs are being hired to fullfill these positions.
In many cases, when influencers are seen working jobs like TV hosting, modeling, reporting and interviewing, the performance is well below average. Viewers are left disappointed as these inexperienced figures speak in the wrong tones, fail to show proper facial reactions and are awkward in their position. Many times influencers resort to last minute coaching or short term instruction before they make their debut, hardly filling the necessary experience needed. Various job opportunities soon become clogged with unqualified influencers, which leaves those who have dedicated their life to the craft robbed of chances they deserve.
While influencers’ ability to build an empire of followers and make money through minor brand deals is impressive, their experience outside the 15-second Tik Tok videos and Instagram pictures is slim. As for the “real world” jobs, these creators have proven that it is best to leave it to the professionals.
