Social media influencer; a relatively new term to our lexicon. In fact, the word influencer was only added to the English dictionary in March last year. But the concept of brands associating with well-known individuals – and vice versa – dates back to the mid-1700s when Josiah Wedgewood made a tea set for Queen Charlotte of England and took the opportunity to brand his wares Royal-approved. A clever and strategic marketing tactic that’s been in play ever since.
This association used to be called brand ambassadorship and was the realm of real celebrities but social media has democratised everything and pretty much anyone can do the job now called being an influencer. Or can they?