Influencers vs Creators

The Future Belongs to Creators

At ConvertKit, we speak directly to creators, helping them build an online presence and make money doing the things they love. But what distinguishes a creator from an influencer? Can you be both? Neither? Understanding where you fall can be essential to growing your business, speaking to brands, and cultivating an intentional career.

In this episode, Charli, Haley, and Miguel unpack what it means to influence versus create. Because whether or not you like the word influencer, having an online following means you influence. And with great influence comes great responsibility.

“We all, every single person who is a part of the creator economy, has a responsibility for the reputation of the creator economy. And (influencers) are a part of that and they are having an impact on the creator economy.” ~ @charliprangley

Main takeaways

  • Regardless of why you have an audience, if you have one, you influence people and therefore carry the responsibilities that come with being “an influencer.” 
  • Sometimes people use “influencer” in a way that’s derogatory to undermine the work that goes into gaining an influence. Many people who aspire to be an influencer don’t understand the work that goes into the content that ultimately fuels someone’s ability to influence. 
  • Is your motivation to create content or to make money and gain a following? Your motivation can determine your classification. 
  • Whether we call followers an audience or a community or simply, followers, that distinction depends on how the creators speak to their followers. Communities are more of a collaborative experience. 

Connect with our hosts

  • Charli Prangley
  • Miguel Pou
  • Haley Janicek

Links

  • Watch The Future Belongs to Creators on YouTube
  • Challenge Winners!
  • James Smith
  • James Clear
  • I Am A Blogger
  • Good Influence(r)
  • Chris Loves Julia
  • Charlie D’Amelio

Got a story to tell on The Future Belongs to Creators podcast?

We'd love to have you on the show to talk about successes or failures you've experienced on your creator journey. Submit your story here!


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