EP. 016 | 3 RAGE thoughts about the online business industry
Podcast Summary
In this episode, I dive into three hot topics affecting the marketing and online business world. First, we uncover the truth about faceless marketing accounts and their predatory practices. Next, we discuss the wide gap in influencer rates and what you should really be paying for. Finally, we expose fake social media experts who prey on your fears to sell their courses. Tune in to get an honest take on these issues and learn how to protect your business.
Episode Highlights
00:58 #1 Faceless Marketing Accounts
05:44 #2 Influencer Rates
10:26 #3 Social Media "experts"
Exposing Marketing Scams: The Truth Behind Faceless Accounts, Influencer Rates, and Fake Social Media Experts
Today, I’m lifting the curtain on some of the most problematic trends in the marketing world that affect small business owners like you. We’re diving into faceless marketing accounts, the disparity in influencer rates, and the rise of fake social media experts. Let’s get into it!
#1 The Rise of Faceless Marketing Accounts
You might have seen them – those big accounts promising you can run a successful business without ever showing your face. Sounds great, right? But here’s the catch: many of these accounts are selling you a dream that doesn’t quite match reality.
What Are Faceless Marketing Accounts?
These accounts promote the idea that you can build a big brand without revealing your identity. The appeal is obvious – no need for constant selfies or personal branding. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find that many of these accounts aren’t offering genuine strategies. Instead, they sell courses on how to sell the same course – a cycle that benefits only a few at the top.
Why Is This Problematic?
This model is reminiscent of multi-level marketing (MLM) schemes, where the real profit comes from recruiting others into the system, not from the product itself. Most people buying into these courses end up disappointed, realizing they’ve been sold a get-rich-quick scheme with little substance.
My Personal Experience with MLMs
Back in college, I fell for an MLM scheme. I was promised quick money and a way to escape my financial struggles. Fortunately, I didn’t lose much, but the experience opened my eyes to how predatory these models can be. Faceless marketing accounts operate similarly, preying on those desperate for quick success.
#2 The Great Influencer Rate Debate
Influencer marketing is booming, but there’s a wide gap in what influencers charge. Some command thousands per post, while others are happy with free products. So, what’s going on?
Understanding Influencer Rates
The influencer industry lacks standardization. Top influencers charge upwards of $50,000 per post, while smaller creators often settle for free products. This disparity creates confusion and unfair practices.
What Are Brands Really Paying For?
Brands pay for more than just follower counts. They’re buying into the influencer’s reputation, experience, and ability to connect with an audience. For instance, my rates start at $2,000 per post because of my years of experience and the trust I’ve built with my audience.
Tips for Small Business Owners
If you’re a small business owner, don’t sell yourself short. Ensure any brand partnership offers an equal exchange of value. Free products should be worth a significant amount, and your content’s value should be recognized.
#3 Exposing Fake Social Media Experts
Finally, let’s talk about the so-called social media experts who spread fear to sell their courses. Every time there’s a minor update on platforms like Instagram or TikTok, these experts create panic-inducing content to drive sales or views.
The Problem with Fear-Inducing Content
These experts often exaggerate changes to create urgency. For example, Instagram’s recent update on content aggregators was blown out of proportion by many. The platform simply aimed to prioritize original content, yet the experts spun it as a dramatic algorithm overhaul.
Why It Matters
Spreading misinformation hurts the entire community. Small business owners might make decisions based on fear rather than facts. Always verify information from reliable sources, like official platform announcements. I aim to educate rather than instill fear. By staying informed and fact-checking, we can navigate these changes without unnecessary panic.
A Peek Into My Inner Thoughts
There you have it – a peek behind the scenes at some of the shady practices in the marketing world. From faceless marketing scams to the murky waters of influencer rates and the rise of fear-based expert advice, it’s clear we need more transparency and honesty in our industry.