The world is digitally-driven now and this has introduced us to job descriptions we never thought we needed. One of such job titles is the role of an influencer and that will be my focus today. With the rise of social media and online platforms, a new breed of influencers has emerged — tech influencers. These individuals wield significant power in shaping opinions, driving trends, and promoting tech products and services. Now, there are so many sweet promises at the end of the rainbow here — this is why I am focused on getting you started.
We have been talking about how to get into tech as a product designer, Public Speaker, Software Developer, digital marketer , Developer Advocat, product manager, Technical Writer, Virtual Assistant, Cyber Security, Project Manager , Artificial Intelligence, Data Analysis, Human Resource, Web Developer, UI/UX Designs, Cloud Computing and Social media management.
As long as you have a passion for technology and communication, I believe the steps I have outlined here can get you started, whether you are a normal influencer or someone who hasn’t even influenced a decision in their own life. In this article, I will explore who a tech influencer is, the necessary skills to excel as one, and then talk about the steps you will need to get started.
Who is a Tech Influencer?
A tech influencer is an individual who utilizes various online platforms, such as social media, blogs, YouTube, and podcasts, to share valuable insights, reviews, and commentary on the latest technological advancements, gadgets, and digital trends. These people possess a deep understanding of technology and its impact on society, and they can effectively communicate complex concepts in an accessible manner.
We all know that influencer marketing has become a leading part of any company’s marketing strategy. As an advanced form of word-of-mouth advertisement, influencers can get a large number of people to take decisions that favour the brand or business they influence for. Research should that in 2022, the U.S. valued the influencer market at 16.4 billion dollars.
Skills Required to Excel as a Tech Influencer
According to the morning consult, 72% of Gen Z and Millennials follow influencers on social media. A large number of consumers for tech-related products and services fall in this category which is why this career path has continued to gain momentum in today’s market. Now, to be an influencer there are skills that you must have, some of these skills include;
1. In-depth Technology Knowledge: A tech influencer should have a thorough understanding of the latest tech trends, gadgets, software, and hardware. Staying up-to-date with emerging technologies and being able to explain them concisely is essential. If you do not know tech, you cannot influence or promote it — it is that simple.
2. Strong Communication Skills: Effective communication is vital to engage an audience. Whether through writing, video content, or podcasts, tech influencers must articulate their ideas clearly and coherently. Companies are paying you to tell your audience about their products and services in the language they understand. To succeed you have to first understand how to communicate in that language.
3. Authenticity: Building a loyal following requires authenticity. Tech influencers should share genuine opinions and experiences to establish trust with their audience. If you are not authentic, you will not be able to influence your followers even if you have them.
4. Creativity: In the competitive world of tech influencing, creativity can set an influencer apart. Finding unique angles and innovative ways to present tech-related content can attract more followers.
5. Marketing and Promotion: Knowing how to market and promote content is crucial for gaining visibility in the digital landscape. Understanding search engine optimization (SEO) and social media algorithms can help amplify an influencer’s reach. The morning consult also said that 50% of Millennials trust product recommendations from influencers. This is true but, if you do not know about to recommend then your followers will not be part of that 50%.
6. Networking: Building connections within the tech industry is essential for collaborations, product reviews, and access to the latest information. Attending tech events, networking with fellow influencers, and engaging with followers can aid in this process.
7. Adaptability: The tech world evolves rapidly, and tech influencers must adapt to new platforms, trends, and changes in consumer behaviour to remain relevant.
How to Get into Tech Influencing
In 2022, Statista reported that influencer marketing spending was about 4.14 billion in the U.S. So, if you are convinced that you want your share of this large amount of money then let us talk about the steps to guide you from the start.
Define Your Niche
Determine the specific area of technology you are most passionate about and knowledgeable in. This could be AI, cybersecurity, consumer electronics, software development, or any other tech-related field. Being a jack of all trades is good but most times I recommend you have an area that you are the best in.
Start a Blog or Channel
Create a platform to showcase your expertise. Whether it’s a blog, YouTube channel, or podcast, consistency and quality content are key to building a dedicated audience. In recent times, social media is the best bet and video content has been seen to win over others. So start as small as you can but make sure you are giving out the quality in your niche. Leverage the power of social media platforms to promote your content and interact with your followers. Each platform has its unique audience, so tailor your approach accordingly.
Learn more about influencing and the skills you need
It is impossible to know everything and although it will be hard to find a university that offers influencer marketing as a full-time course, there are other ways to sharpen your knowledge. Understand that you are first an influencer and being knowledgable about that is the most important thing. Adding tech knowledge to this will be everything you need to win here. I have outlined some resources in the table below to help you in your study time.
Resource
Platform
Format
Coursera
Course
Mastering Influence and Negotiation
Alison
Course
Introduction to Social Media Advertising
Skillshare
Course
Coursera
Course
Udemy
Course
Wordstream
Course
Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content
Class Central
Course
Canva
Course
Influence People with Persuasion Psychology
Udemy
Course
Quintly
Course
Computer Programming for Everyone
Future Learn
Course
Codecademy
Course
Tech 101: Introduction to Working in Tech
Udemy
Course
Introduction to Cyber Security
Future Learn
Course
Introduction to Technical Support
Coursera
Course
Produce High-Quality Engaging Content
Focus on creating informative and engaging content that resonates with your target audience. Utilize various formats, such as articles, videos, and infographics, to cater to different preferences. You should also respond to comments, questions, and messages from your followers. Building a sense of community and engaging with your audience fosters loyalty and encourages them to share your content. User-generated content has become one of the best ways to get engagements online.
Network and Collaborate with Others
Partnering with fellow tech influencers or brands can expand your reach and introduce you to new audiences. Collaborative efforts can lead to increased visibility and credibility within the tech community. Participate in industry events, conferences, and webinars to stay updated on the latest trends and network with professionals in the tech space.
Monetize Your Influence
As your influence grows; monetization opportunities may arise, such as sponsored content, affiliate marketing, and brand partnerships. Ensure that any collaborations align with your values and resonate with your audience. Monetizing your influence is the last stop and at this point, you can edit your bio and call yourself a certified tech influencer.
Conclusion on how to get into tech influencing
Becoming a tech influencer requires a combination of passion, knowledge, creativity, and perseverance. However, it is important to note that the rewards that this service comes with are amazing. The industry keeps growing and there is no limit to what you can achieve. So, embrace the power of technology and communication to amplify your voice and make a lasting impact in the digital landscape. Remember, consistency and authenticity will be your most potent tools on this exciting journey to becoming a respected tech influencer.
Thanks for reading, do not forget to follow and remember to stay bullish.
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