Latest Influencer News in 2025
Russian Influencer Claims Indian Passport Officer Gave His Number, Asked Her To Call Him
A video shared by a Russian influencer named Dinara on her Instagram account has ignited a storm of controversy and mixed reactions. In the video, Dinara recounts an unsettling encounter with an Indian passport officer who allegedly wrote his contact number on her boarding pass and requested that she call him the next time she visited India. She then asked netizens whether they deemed his behavior inappropriate.The responses to the video were diverse, with some users suggesting that it was only one side of the story and questioning whether the officer's actions constituted assault. One commenter advised Dinara to refrain from blowing the matter out of proportion. It encouraged her to file a police complaint, dismissing the incident as social media drama. This incident, sparked by a social media post on the Russian influencer's Instagram, has initiated discussions about appropriate conduct in professional settings and the importance of addressing such incidents through proper channels rather than solely on social media platforms.Dinara's video has not just sparked controversy, but it has also reignited important discussions surrounding cultural norms and appropriate boundaries in professional settings, particularly during international travel. While some viewers sympathized with Dinara's discomfort and emphasized the importance of respecting personal boundaries, others highlighted the potential for misinterpretation of gestures in cross-cultural interactions. Nonetheless, the incident has underscored the need for clear guidelines and training for airport staff to ensure that interactions with travelers are professional, respectful, and free from perceived misconduct.As the video continues to circulate on social media platforms, it has not only prompted calls for authorities to investigate the matter and address any potential misconduct by the passport control officer in the India Airport, but it has also sparked significant and necessary broader conversations about the experiences of women travelers and the importance of creating safe and welcoming environments for individuals from diverse backgrounds. Dinara's brave decision to share her experience publicly has shed light on the challenges travelers face and the need for greater awareness and accountability in handling such situations by airport officials and authorities.
Pepsi Taps Influencers To Help Launch Its Rebranding, Stop Declining Sales
Amid declining beverage sales, PepsiCo is embarking on a global campaign to introduce its Pepsi rebranding to consumers. The company, known for brands like Mountain Dew and Gatorade, saw a 1% decrease in its drinks portfolio sales in 2023, particularly in North America and Europe, a report shared.However, with a proven track record of successful marketing strategies, PepsiCo is confident in its ability to reverse this trend and enhance household penetration, leveraging its cultural connections to drive its marketing efforts for Pepsi rebranding 2024.PepsiCo's VP of global brand marketing, Erica Melis, emphasized the company's historical role as a 'believer and driver of culture.' Beyond traditional associations with live music, video and soccer, PepsiCo is embracing innovative approaches that will captivate younger audiences. These include drone installations in Dubai, towering CG cans in London, and experiential marketing with creator partnerships, all of which are set to revolutionize the marketing landscape.Like other significant advertisers, PepsiCo is refocusing on brand-building activities amidst a crowded advertising landscape. With a diverse media strategy tailored to different markets, PepsiCo prioritizes linear TV spend, paid social, and creator partnerships via Pepsi Influencer marketing efforts. Melis highlighted the importance of "retailtainment," where PepsiCo aims to disrupt stores with unique and engaging experiences.In the UK, PepsiCo transformed a Manchester corner shop into a Pepsi MAX-branded nightspot, showcasing live DJ sets and nostalgic candy. Such activations, landmark installations, and soccer sponsorships are part of PepsiCo's ongoing effort to stay culturally relevant.PepsiCo's influencer marketing and marketing media budget, up by 20% between 2018 and 2023, underscores its commitment to these initiatives. Melis emphasized the alignment between marketing and business goals, citing KPIs such as purchase intent and brand love to justify investments. According to Evan Horowitz of the agency Movers+Shakers, building cultural relevance is crucial for brands like PepsiCo to connect with younger consumers and foster emotional connections. Melis emphasized the importance of human-centric content grounded in solving consumer problems to drive brand equity and long-term business performance.As PepsiCo prepares for its next annual general meeting, its increased marketing spend and global rebranding campaign will likely be in the spotlight. Focusing on driving cultural relevance and fostering emotional connections with consumers, PepsiCo aims to demonstrate the impact of its marketing investments on brand equity and long-term business performance. PepsiCo seeks to maintain its iconic brand status and drive growth in an evolving market landscape by aligning marketing strategies with consumer preferences and leveraging innovative approaches to engage audiences.
Saudi Arabia Fitness Influencer Gets 11-Year Sentence For Her ‘Choice Of Clothing’: Amnesty International
Saudi Arabia has confirmed in a letter to the United Nations that a Saudi Arabian female influencer who is popular online received an 11-year prison sentence over unspecified "terrorism offenses." The letter, dated Jan. 25 and sent to the U.N.'s Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, did not specify the nature of the alleged offenses.While the kingdom asserted that the case was unrelated to the instructor's online presence, human rights activists argue that the conviction of Manahel al-Otaibi highlights the limitations on freedom of expression in Saudi Arabia. According to Amnesty International and ALQST, a London-based human rights group, al-Otaibi's charges were related to her choice of clothing and expression of her views online, including advocacy for the end of Saudi Arabia's male guardianship system and liberal dress codes for women.The joint statement issued by the human rights organizations emphasized that Manahel al-Otaibi's Instagram posts and other social media platforms such as Twitter, and Snapchat included advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and the abolition of Saudi Arabia's male guardianship laws. She has been detained since November 2022, while her sister Fouz faced similar charges and fled Saudi Arabia.The kingdom's letter to the U.N. emphasized that exercising and defending rights are not crimes under Saudi law. However, it condemned attempts to justify terrorist actions by describing them as exercising or protecting rights. The case of al-Otaibi underscores ongoing concerns about human rights and freedom of expression in Saudi Arabia, despite recent reforms that have relaxed some social restrictions, including allowing women to drive since 2018.The imprisonment of the Saudi Arabian influencer has drawn international attention and raised concerns about the protection of human rights in Saudi Arabia. Critics argue that her case exemplifies the broader pattern of repression against individuals who express dissenting views or advocate for social change in the kingdom. The Saudi government's response, while asserting the legality of exercising and defending rights, has been met with skepticism from human rights organizations, which continue to call for transparency and accountability in cases of alleged rights abuses.Additionally, the Saudi Arabian influencer scandal sheds light on the challenges faced by women activists and advocates in Saudi Arabia. Despite some reforms aimed at improving women's rights, such as lifting the ban on driving, women who speak out against the government or challenge societal norms still risk severe repercussions, including imprisonment. The case of al-Otaibi underscores the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the need for more excellent protection of women's rights in the kingdom. As international pressure mounts on Saudi Arabia to address these issues, the fate of individuals like al-Otaibi remains a focal point in the global debate over human rights and freedom of expression.
How To Get Free Upgrades On Flights And The Best Time To Ask? Travel Influencer Reveals The Answers
Travel influencer @travelingoutofsty has shared valuable advice on how to get free upgrades on flights. In a viral TikTok video with 1.8 million views, the user revealed that being bumped off an overbooked flight could lead to a first-class seat.The video features a man speaking into the camera at an airport, explaining that if passengers are offered compensation for taking a later flight due to overbooking, they can also ask for a first-class upgrade - yes, this is one of the best time to upgrade flight. He shares a personal experience where he was bumped off a flight and was offered a first-class seat as compensation. This practice, known as "bumping" or "denied boarding," occurs when there are more passengers booked than available seats, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).While bumping passengers is not illegal, airlines oversell flights to account for potential no-shows, as explained by the DOT. It's important to note that the compensation offered for being bumped off a flight may vary depending on the airline and the specific circumstances. While most flights proceed smoothly, occasional bumps occur due to over-sales practices. It's advisable to familiarize yourself with the airline's policies and your rights as a passenger to ensure you're fully informed. This knowledge actually is a good starting point on how to get free flight upgrades. The advice shared by @travelingoutofsty offers travelers the thrilling potential to turn a frustrating situation into a delightful surprise by securing an unexpected upgrade. As the video gains traction on social media, it provides exciting insights for travelers looking to enhance their flying experience without incurring additional costs.Travelingoutofsty, is one of the travel influencers to follow, so the tip has resonated with those eager to maximize their flying experience. The prospect of turning an inconvenience like being bumped off a flight into an opportunity for a first-class upgrade is appealing to many. As the video continues to gain traction and reach a wider audience, it serves as a practical and potentially cost-saving strategy for travelers to consider when faced with overbooked flights.However, travelers must approach the situation with confidence and manage their expectations. While requesting a first-class upgrade in exchange for being bumped off a flight is possible, it's not guaranteed. Airlines may have specific policies and procedures for handling overbooked flights, and the availability of upgrades can vary depending on various factors, including the airline's policies, the route, and the number of passengers affected. Therefore, travelers should be prepared to weigh their options carefully and consider the potential outcomes before making any requests or decisions at the airport.
‘Studytuber’ Admits To Ignorance Over Basic But Important Politics Info; Netizens Call Her Out
Influencer Jade Bowler, known for her educational content on social media, faced criticism after admitting she didn't grasp the difference between left-wing and right-wing politics until the age of 18. Despite her academic achievements, including scoring top grades in her GCSEs and A levels, Bowler revealed her lack of political awareness in a video urging followers to register to vote for local elections.Bowler, also known as UnjadedJade online and one of the many 'studytubers' in UK, attributed her ignorance to growing up in a household where politics was not discussed. She explained that her parents didn't vote, and political conversations were absent from family discussions. Jade Bowler's YouTube revelation sparked debate among her followers, with some expressing shock at her admission and others questioning her association of critical thinking with attending university. It also puts a focus on what is studytubes and the authenticity of the information they share since these accounts have significant following.The influencer, who graduated with a first-class degree in Cognitive Science from Minerva Schools, a remote-learning institution, highlighted her enlightenment to UK politics through university and international travel. However, her comments about the role of education in fostering critical thinking received criticism for being perceived as elitist by some viewers. Despite the backlash, Bowler's video reminded her followers to participate in the democratic process by registering to vote.Bowler's journey, a continuous learning process from academic success to political awareness, underscores the importance of education and exposure to diverse perspectives in shaping individuals' understanding of societal issues. As she navigates post-university life and continues to share her experiences online, Bowler's story reflects the complexities of political awareness and the role of influencers in fostering civic engagement among their audiences.As Bowler continues to engage with her audience and share insights gained from her educational journey and global experiences, her story serves as a reminder of the diverse paths individuals take in their pursuit of knowledge and understanding. While her admission of past ignorance sparked debate, it also opened the door to conversations about the accessibility of education and the importance of encouraging critical thinking skills in all spheres of life, regardless of formal academic qualifications. Moving forward, Bowler's commitment to personal growth and her willingness to engage with feedback from her audience reflects a broader trend among influencers seeking to foster dialogue and promote positive societal change through their platforms.
Influencer Who Ran Brooklyn Half Marathon Without Registering Says Her Act Was Meant To ‘Inspire Others’
Social media personality Alexa Curtis faced heavy criticism after she posted a video of herself crossing the finish line at the NYCRUNS Brooklyn Half Marathon 2024 without actually registering for the race. Banditing, or running a race without registering, is a controversial act as race entry fees contribute to essential race logistics and charity donations. Alexa Curtis, an influencer, later apologized, stating her intent was to inspire others and improve her mental health. She admitted her ignorance regarding the offense caused and pledged to familiarize herself with race rules in the future.In her Alexa Curtis half marathon apology posted on social media platform X, Curtis expressed regret over the unintended offense caused by her actions. She stated, "I did not realize I would offend so many people... I had no intention to take anything from anyone or the race: I was running for myself for my mental health. In the future I’ll be sure to look up the rules if I decide to run again."https://twitter.com/Alexa_Curtis/status/1785109707721478199The 2024 RBC Brooklyn Half Marathon, organized by NYCRUNS, is not only a significant athletic event but also a fundraiser for charity. Registration fees, which can be as high as $125, contribute to race logistics such as security, medical services, and refreshments for participants. Additionally, a portion of the registration fees goes to charity, with NYU Langone Healthy being the "signature charity partner" for the Brooklyn Half Marathon.Curtis admitted her lack of registration in a lengthy post where she described her experience running the race and the personal challenges she had overcome. Despite her explanation, many social media users criticized her actions, accusing her of "stealing" from the race and the community. Curtis engaged with some of the criticism, highlighting her own recent financial challenges and emphasizing her efforts to inspire others through her work.Her publicist defended Curtis, stating that she decided last minute to participate in the race as a means to promote fitness and the mind-body connection. The publicist also mentioned that Curtis, who is visiting from overseas, intended her participation to be positive and uplifting for her followers.NYCRUNS issued a statement emphasizing the safety risks associated with banditing and the unfairness it poses to registered runners. They highlighted the record number of participants in the race and emphasized the importance of bibs for identifying runners in case of medical emergencies.Despite the controversy, Curtis' actions have sparked a conversation about the ethics of banditing races and the responsibility of influencers in promoting responsible behavior.
Gen Z Has New Social Media Slang; Acronyms Being Used Less: Research
social media acronyms"Generation Z is revolutionizing language, bidding adieu to traditional acronyms like "LOL" and "GR8" in favor of fresher Gen Z slang words. As millennials and Xillennials embrace terms like "LMAO" and "G2G," today's teens and twenty-somethings are blazing a new linguistic trail with Gen Z acronyms. Experts warn that clinging to outdated acronyms can quickly reveal one's age in the fast-paced world of online communication.To help older generations keep pace with the latest linguistic trends and social media slang words, researchers from Currys compiled a list of antiquated acronyms alongside their modern replacements. For instance, examples of social media abbreviation include: Instead of the succinct "GR8," youngsters now opt for the more descriptive "that slaps." Similarly, "YOLO" has been supplanted by "DIFTP," meaning "Do It For The Plot."According to a report, deciphering Gen Z slang or new social media acronyms isn't just about swapping one acronym for another—it's about embracing an entirely new lexicon. Terms like "TNTL" for "trying not to laugh" and "ISTG" for "I swear to God" may leave older generations scratching their heads. Google searches for the meanings of these unfamiliar acronyms have surged, reflecting a growing generational gap in communication.The influence of platforms like TikTok and video games is shaping the evolution of language. Linguists predict that Americans will soon adopt a "TikTalk" accent, mirroring the speech patterns of social media influencers. Meanwhile, video game terminology like "NPC" (Non-Player Character) has entered mainstream dialogue, with phrases like "sidequest" and "NPC" used to describe real-life scenarios.As Generation Z continues to reshape language and culture, older generations are tasked with adapting to the ever-changing landscape of communication. Whether it's embracing new acronyms or adopting trendy terminology, staying linguistically relevant has become a hallmark of intergenerational connection in the digital age.The rapid evolution of language driven by Generation Z extends beyond mere acronyms and slang. It reflects a broader shift in cultural norms and societal values. As young people increasingly prioritize authenticity and social justice, their language reflects these ideals. Terms like "woke" and "cancel culture" have become ubiquitous, signaling a heightened awareness of social issues and a willingness to hold others accountable for their actions.Moreover, the influence of technology on language cannot be overstated. With the rise of social media and texting as primary modes of communication, brevity and creativity are prized. Emojis, GIFs, and memes have become integral components of online discourse, conveying emotions and complex ideas with just a few characters or images. This digital language landscape, constantly evolving and adapting, underscores the dynamic nature of communication in the 21st century.
TikTok Ban In US Could Also Affect CapCut
The future of short-form video creation faces uncertainty not only due to the potential TikTok ban but also because of its associated editing app, CapCut. Owned by TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance. In a TikTok ban update, CapCut is under threat due to the same U.S. legislation targeting the popular platform with significant implications for video creators who rely on its accessible editing tools.CapCut, renowned for its intuitive design and comprehensive features, has become a favored tool among video creators, overshadowing native editing options on platforms like Instagram and YouTube. Its potential ban could disrupt the short-form video ecosystem significantly, as content creators may struggle with less user-friendly alternatives, possibly deterring new creators from entering the space.This issue arises amid broader debates about TikTok getting banned in the U.S., which hinges on ongoing complex legal challenges. A ban could inadvertently boost other platforms like Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts, similar to shifts seen after TikTok was banned in India. However, CapCut ban could stifle this potential growth by removing a key tool from creators’ arsenals, potentially leading to a shift in how and if short-form video content is produced.Meanwhile, the popularity of certain products continues to surge on social media platforms, with TikTok recently propelling Walgreens’ Nice! mango gummy candies into viral fame. This underscores the influential power of social media in driving consumer behavior, a trend that businesses are keen to monitor for leveraging organic marketing opportunities.Additionally, recent polls highlight the profound impact of media consumption habits on political preferences, with implications for the forthcoming presidential election. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for PR professionals aiming to optimize their strategies across different demographics.As the landscape of digital content and its regulation continues to evolve, both creators and businesses may need to consider alternative strategies and tools to adapt to these changes. The situation remains fluid, with the tech community and its users eagerly awaiting the outcomes of legislative decisions that could reshape the digital media industry.
Getty Images Is Official Photographer Of Met Gala 2024
Getty Images, renowned for its comprehensive visual content creation and distribution, has been confirmed as the Official Photographer for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute Benefit, widely known as the Met Gala 2024. The event is scheduled for May 6, 2024, and marks Getty Images’ sixth consecutive year of taking Met Gala photos.The Met Gala, a highlight of the international fashion calendar, attracts a constellation of celebrities from various industries, including fashion, film, music, sports, business, and art. This year, the gala is co-chaired by notable figures such as Zendaya, Jennifer Lopez, Bad Bunny, Chris Hemsworth, and Vogue's Anna Wintour. The event not only serves as a fundraising benefit for the museum’s Costume Institute but also celebrates the launch of its spring exhibition and Met Gala theme 2024 titled "Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion."Getty Images' team, consisting of award-winning photographers and videographers, will provide extensive coverage of the gala, including red carpet arrivals, departures, and candid moments inside the event. Exclusive images and video content from the gala will be available for licensing on Getty Images’ website, ensuring global media and fans receive real-time access to the event.Kirstin Benson, Vice President of Global Entertainment at Getty Images, expressed enthusiasm about their continued partnership with The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Vogue. She highlighted the company's commitment to capturing the essence of the Met Gala through innovative and intimate photography and videography of the Met Gala 2024 guest list. This effort aligns with Getty Images’ broader mission to deliver unique and compelling content that stands out in the global media landscape.This year's Met Gala exhibition will showcase approximately 250 fashion items from the Costume Institute’s permanent collection, featuring works by iconic designers such as Schiaparelli, Dior, and Givenchy, covering more than 400 years of fashion history.Getty Images, with nearly three decades of experience in the industry, covers almost 70,000 entertainment events annually, including major awards shows, fashion weeks, and film festivals. Their expertise in creating distinctive visual content continues to enrich global cultural events, making them a key player in the world of international media and entertainment.
Meta Launches Threads Bonus Program For Creators: Here Are The Rules
Meta has recently introduced a Threads bonus program for select creators. With its rapidly growing social media platform, which has surpassed 150 million monthly users, Meta aims to enhance user engagement and expand the Threads app content diversity.According to a report, the bonus initiative, currently in a testing phase since March, is an invite-only scheme targeted at U.S.-based creators and influencers on Threads, with plans to broaden to other regions depending on its success potentially. According to Meta, the program is designed to incentivize creators with specific performance-based criteria, including the number of views and posts made on their public Threads profiles.Creators eligible for this program must adhere to Instagram's creator incentive terms, which also apply to Threads. To qualify for bonuses, posts must meet certain viewership thresholds, specifically garnering at least 2,500 views. Content that includes copyrighted material lacks text, or has artificially boosted views will not qualify for bonuses. Posts should not feature watermarks from competing platforms such as TikTok or YouTube and must not be associated with brand partnerships.The details of the bonus amounts and payment thresholds are managed through the professional dashboard available to creators on Threads. Meta has indicated that a minimum earning threshold is necessary before a payout is issued. Those who do not meet this minimum may have the opportunity to participate in future bonus programs.This strategic incentive is part of Meta’s broader effort to attract content creators from Instagram and encourage them to engage with Threads. By integrating suggested Threads content into the Instagram app, Meta also hopes to facilitate a cross-platform user experience that could shift user traffic towards Threads.The bonus program represents an attractive opportunity for creators to monetize their content on a new platform. However, as Meta has not yet released a long-term monetization strategy for Threads, the current financial incentives for creators remain temporary. As Threads continues to evolve, the creative community will closely watch how these initiatives impact their engagement and growth on the platform.
Revolve’s Stagecoach 2024 After Party Sparks Outrage Over Segregation Based On Follower Count
At this year’s Stagecoach Music Festival, a seemingly divisive signage at an afterparty co-hosted by online retailer Revolve and streetwear brand Pizzaslime led to a viral moment and widespread debate over the role of social media influence in public events. TikTok influencer Rhegan Coursey captured and shared the incident, which featured two separate entry signs at the Stagecoach after-party venue — one directing those with over 1 million followers and another for those with fewer, causing her to leave the event in dismay.In a Stagecoach festival news, Coursey’s TikTok video, which rapidly amassed nearly 20 million views, displayed the signs stating "Over 1 million+ followers enter here" and "Under 1 million followers enter here," both featuring arrows pointing in opposite directions. Her reaction, "That’s so weird to me... we’re not celebs," resonated with many of her followers and other social media users who criticized the apparent exclusivity based on follower count.https://www.tiktok.com/@rhegancoursey/video/7362821359539375402The backlash was swift on social media, with comments ranging from calling the move “icky” to comparisons with dystopian scenarios like "Black Mirror." Influencers like Abbie Herbert, with over 15 million followers, expressed disbelief, questioning the authenticity of the signs.However, the situation took a turn when some users pointed out Pizzaslime's reputation for satirical stunts, suggesting the signs were meant as a joke. Pizzaslime, known for its humorous and often irreverent take on pop culture, later commented on the incident, explaining that both entry points led to the same experience and were intended as a light-hearted joke. This comment, however, was later deleted.Despite Pizzaslime's clarification, Coursey remarked in a follow-up video that while the signs were satirical, the differential treatment of influencers based on their social media clout remains a real issue at many events. This sentiment reflects a broader concern about the intersection of social status and digital influence at public gatherings like Stagecoach 2024.The incident at Stagecoach is not an isolated one for Revolve, which has previously faced criticism for how it manages influencer-centric events, including logistical issues at its 2022 Revolve Festival and Revolve after-party during Coachella. These ongoing controversies highlight the evolving challenges and dynamics within the influencer culture, especially as it intersects with public and commercial events.
Elon Musk’s Twitter Posts On Tesla Still Need Approval After Supreme Court Rejects His Appeal
In a significant ruling on Monday, the Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal from Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, regarding a prior settlement with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) that mandates pre-approval of his social media posts about the electric car company, particularly on Elon Musk's X account.This decision effectively upholds earlier court rulings that enforce the oversight of Musk’s communications related to Tesla using Elon Musk's Twitter, which he argued infringed upon his First Amendment rights. The high court provided no commentary while maintaining the status quo set by lower courts, which found no merit in Musk's claims of "prior restraint."The controversy dates back to August 2018 when Musk tweeted that he had “funding secured” to take Tesla private at $420 per share, a claim that caused Tesla's stock price to surge and trading to temporarily halt. Elon Musk SEC Tesla tweet sparked a flurry of legal and financial repercussions, including an SEC investigation into whether Musk misled investors, concluding that the tweet constituted a breach of securities law's anti-fraud provisions.As part of a settlement reached with the SEC, it was agreed that Musk’s tweets, particularly those dealing with substantial corporate matters that could impact market pricing, would require vetting by a Tesla-appointed attorney before posting. The agreement also stipulated that Musk and Tesla would pay civil penalties.Despite acquiring Twitter in 2022, now rebranded as X, Musk's legal challenges related to his use of the platform persisted. The SEC revisited its scrutiny over Musk’s compliance with the settlement following a tweet in 2021, wherein Musk queried his followers about selling 10% of his Tesla stock without prior approval from legal counsel.This Supreme Court's decision not only underscores the enforceability of regulatory oversight on executive communications in publicly traded companies but also marks a critical reminder of the ongoing tension between corporate governance and individual rights within the upper echelons of corporate America.
Social Media Algorithms Accurately Reflect Teens’ Likes And Wants: Study
A recent study by researchers at George Mason University, led by Assistant Professor Nora McDonald, has uncovered a significant finding: teenagers perceive the personalized content delivered by social media algorithms as an accurate reflection of their identities. This perception, explored in the context of algorithmic selections, has profound implications for teen self-perception and identity development during a crucial period of their lives.The research team, including John Seberger and Afsaneh Razi from Drexel University, conducted qualitative interviews with teens aged 13 to 17. They discovered that most teens appreciate the personalized "for you" content and believe it accurately mirrors their true selves. This belief in the reliability of social media algorithms highlights the significant role social media effects on teens in shaping adolescent identities.Interestingly, the teenagers in the study expressed a strong preference for social media feeds that were tailored to their interests and values. They saw any content discrepancies as mere anomalies, including accidental interactions with content they do not identify with, which they quickly dismissed or ignored. Despite these occasional mismatches, the overall sentiment was that social media does an excellent job of reflecting their identities and preferences - generally a positive social media effects on youth. The findings underscore the ease with which teenagers accept and integrate the curated content into their self-image, often overlooking the broader implications such as privacy erosion, data security, and social media effects on mental health. The study also notes that while teens recognize their feeds are shaped by their online behaviors, they must be aware of how extensively their data is used across different platforms to sculpt this digital identity.The study's most alarming finding is the potential risks posed by this unwavering trust in algorithmic content. It could reinforce self-image distortions and increase susceptibility to mental health issues among teenagers. This underscores the urgent need for more robust interventions to help teenagers critically assess the content they consume and understand the complex interplay between their digital and real-life personas.The study's implications are far-reaching, underscoring the pressing need for educational initiatives of social media apps. These initiatives should equip young users with the necessary skills to navigate social media more safely and thoughtfully, and to understand the complex algorithms that shape their online experiences. Researchers are advocating for the development of tools that protect privacy while empowering teens to engage with content critically, ensuring they can distinguish between algorithmic behavior predictions and their authentic selves.
Influencer Marketing Study Reveals Most Engagements Happen On Nano Influencers’ Posts
A groundbreaking influencer marketing study by professors Ryan Dew and Raghuram Iyengar from Wharton School has unveiled fresh perspectives on the cost-effectiveness of mega-influencers versus micro-influencers in advertising campaigns and other influencer marketing strategies. Their research, in collaboration with Zijun Tian of Washington University in St. Louis, challenges the conventional wisdom that more followers always lead to better returns on investment.Their influencer marketing research was titled 'Mega or Micro? Influencer Selection Using Follower Elasticity,' the researchers delve into the relationship between an influencer's follower count and the engagement their posts receive. They introduce a novel metric, 'follower elasticity of impressions' (FEI), which quantifies the percentage increase in views relative to the percentage increase in followers, providing a more nuanced understanding of an influencer's reach and impact.The findings indicate that while mega-influencers like Cristiano Ronaldo—who earns upwards of $3.23 million per Instagram post—garner more views, they do not necessarily achieve proportional engagement, such as comments, likes, or shares. The study reveals that engagement rates are higher among mid-tier influencers, those with about 7,500 to 10,000 followers, suggesting a more intimate and potent connection with their audience.Professor Dew explains that the return on investment declines as influencer popularity increases. "For every additional follower you're paying for, you're getting less and less for that," Dew stated in an interview with Wharton Business Daily on SiriusXM.However, the study also notes exceptions. Certain types of influencers and content, like gaming, which naturally have a vital social component, show higher FEI at higher follower counts. Similarly, trust and authenticity, crucial in specific campaigns, also fare better with micro-influencers.The researchers also found that contests, where consumers create template videos about a product, perform uniformly across influencer popularity levels. In these instances, leveraging mega-influencers can be as cost-effective as employing micro-influencers.This groundbreaking study challenges the prevailing belief that more followers mean better marketing outcomes, advocating for a more nuanced approach based on the type of content and campaign goals. Follower elasticity should be considered a key performance indicator (KPI) in influencer marketing, comparable to established metrics like price and ad elasticity in other marketing fields. The implications of this research are profound, potentially prompting a strategic reassessment of influencer marketing benefits and how brands distribute their influencer partnership budgets. It underscores the need for data-driven decisions in a rapidly evolving digital marketplace, where the proper influencer selection can make or break a campaign.
64% Of Voters Think Social Media Has Mostly Negative Effect On Society
A recent Pew Research Center survey reveals that most Americans across political affiliations are increasingly concerned about the perceived social media effects on society and the overreach of the platforms in politics. This sentiment, amplified among Democrats, clearly indicates the public's growing unease about the influence of big tech firms on public discourse and democracy. The social media studies 2024, conducted via survey among 10,133 U.S. adults from February 7-11, 2024, provides a robust snapshot of these concerns.The data from the survey paints a compelling picture of a growing concern among Americans about the influence of social media platforms in political matters. A striking 78% of Americans now believe these platforms have too much influence, a significant increase from 72% in 2020. This concern is particularly pronounced among Republicans and Republican-leaning independents, with 84% expressing worry. Among Democrats and Democratic leaners, 74% share this view, a notable increase from 63% four years ago.The survey underscores a deep-seated concern about the impartiality of these platforms and social media's role in society, with a significant 83% of respondents feeling that social media sites likely censor political viewpoints they disagree with. This perception, which has risen from 77% in 2022, is particularly alarming, with 93% of Republicans and 74% of Democrats sharing this view.Regarding the overall impact on the country, 64% of Americans say its effect is mostly negative, not really covering social media benefits, which has remained steady since 2020. Again, Republicans are more likely to hold this view (71%), though many Democrats now agree, rising from 53% in 2020 to 59% today.Perceptions of bias within the tech industry are also a key concern. The survey reveals that 44% of Americans believe major technology companies favor liberal views over conservative ones, while only 15% see a conservative bias. This perception is particularly strong among Republicans, with 71% perceiving a liberal bias, aligning with the party's longstanding critique of Silicon Valley.The survey reveals a consistent finding over the years, with approximately half of the respondents (51%) advocating for increased government oversight of technology companies. This demand for stricter oversight, particularly among Democrats, underscores the public's call for action to address these concerns.These findings underscore a growing unease among Americans about the role of technology companies in political and social spheres, highlighting calls for more robust regulatory frameworks to address these concerns.