The term “InfluencersGoneWild” depicts a sense of unpredictability and the sensational nature of social media influencers and their content. It not only shows how the influencers take extraordinary steps but also emphasizes the originality of the content and the person. In an era where digital media and social networking have gained immense popularity, the influence of social media personalities also known as influencers has grown up to unprecedented levels.
Being a social media influencer attracts brands who want to attract a large audience. For brands, it is easier to promote their products or services with these influencers. But here we are talking about those influencers who push the boundaries. What does it mean by influencersgonewild? What are the implications of such influencers for brands and audiences? Keep reading so our team at SocialComputingJournal can bring you insights about this trend.
Contents
Understanding Influencers
Please take a look around you, and see how people are using their mobile phones, and which content they are interacting with. But something is for sure, influencers matter in the online world. They get significant attention and can sway audience consumer behavior. Influencers gained popularity during the early 2010s. Now, their influence has grown and is seen in our daily lives. Their appeal stems from their relatability, lifestyle depiction, and perceived authenticity. But some cross the conventional lines and go beyond some people’s expectations. It is called “Influncersgonewild”.
What Actually the “Gone Wild” Phenomenon All About?
The Longman dictionary defines the term “Gone Wild” as “to behave in a very excited uncontrolled way”. Like you say “The stock market went wild today”. It elaborates on a behavior that is outrageous, extravagant, and often unfiltered. Let’s apply this to influencers and it shows a trend where certain personalities create sensational or controversial content to capture attention and engage followers. It can be demonstrated in several ways:
Risqué Behavior:
Social media influencers strive to engage and attract their followers. Some create content that is daring and provocative. This challenge of the norms blurs the lines between personal branding and sensationalism. It goes so much above the line that it raises discussions about ethics and responsibility.
Daring Stunts and Challenges:
Many people use social media for entertaining content. They want something new regularly. So, they like and follow the relevant influencers who can do this. But, some influencers take extraordinary steps to entertain and excite their fans. They take wild challenges in extreme or dangerous settings which raises concerns about safety.
Read this post about parents suing TikTok regarding the ‘blackout challenge’.
Controversial Opinions and Comments:
Some influencers give controversial opinions to heat discussions. They make use of infuriating viewpoints to generate discussions and attract others for commentary on their platform. These remarks elicit strong reactions. Such controversial comments spark debates and create ethical dilemmas among their audience. A recent example is YouTuber-podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia, also known as “BeerBiceps”, who passed dirty comments and faced strong reactions.
Why Audiences Get Excited When Influencers Go Wild?
We know that such behavior is not useful in any way. But it raises a serious question about why audiences gravitate toward such startling content. Here are a few reasons why audiences get excited when influencers go wild:
Entertainment Value
Most people use social media for entertainment. So, they follow those who create engaging content. However, when an influencer goes wild and delivers thrill and unpredictability, it captures the attention of the audience immediately. All it takes is just an entertaining flair. Since, this content is exciting, and creates memorable moments that followers are more likely to share, and increase visibility. The entertainment value of such content makes it count.
Authenticity and Relatability
When an influencer goes wild, the audience appreciates the authenticity and originality. This openness of the influencers fosters a sense of connection among their followers. These unfiltered moments resonate deeper connections.
Fear Of Missing Out
The fear of missing out is a feeling of anxiety and dissatisfaction that someone experiences believing that others might be experiencing more rewarding events and situations while he/she is not present. When influences get involved in controversial situations it triggers their audience to engage more to feel included. FOMO is a powerful psychological motivator in the world of social media. It is behind the success of many top social media channels.
The Risks and Effects for Brands Working With “Wild” Influencers
Working with wild influencers creates opportunities as well as risks for brands who want to collaborate with them. The brands can get the attention, but it can work both ways:
Risk of Reputation Damage
Partnership with influencers who engage in outrageous behavior poses a risk to brand reputation. It can have serious consequences for the brand as it can affect how consumers perceive the brand. For example, if an influencer is regularly involved in sexiest remarks, it can affect how the audience thinks about the brand working with that influencer.
Wrong Target Audience
Brands should look out for those influencers whose audience matches their target market. Working with a wild influencer may bring in transient followers who may not be interested in the brand. They may like your brand page, but it may be hard to turn them into loyal customers.
Consumer Trust and Authenticity
If the followers do not like the wild behavior of an influencer, it could result in mistrust in both the brand and the influencer.
The Future of Influencers Gone Wild
The world of social media is evolving but the #InfluencersGoneWild trend is not going down yet. However, here is what brand should look out for:
- People are voicing for accountability and ethical content creation in the influencer space.
- Mental health is becoming a major factor in the online world.
- The demand for authenticity over perfection is growing.
- People are conversing about the ethics of viral content.
Brands need to choose their partners wisely. Here is what they need to do:
- Partner with influences who balance reach with responsibility.
- Collaborate with influencers who align with your brand values
- Stay ahead by understanding the complexities of modern influencer culture
Conclusion
The popularity of the influencersgonewild trend is undeniable. But it is not just about who can get the most likes, it is about lasting impact, trust, and sustainability. Influencers should focus on providing value above entertainment and the brands should focus on long-term credibility over short term reach. At SocialComputingJournal we emphasize the need for responsible use of social media and technology. If you like this post, checkout other posts aas well.
