SEC S17W6: Influencers

20 years ago, a job was still identical with routine office commutes, wearing neat uniforms, and following a strict schedule. Today, the definition of a job has drastically changed. Work can now be done from home, anywhere, anytime, and in any attire. Even a programmer earning thousands of dollars a day might work from home in a tattered T-shirt. The world has changed, friends!

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The same goes for the influencer profession. Who would have thought that posting photos, videos, or writing statuses could become a money-making job?

For me, a job is anything done to earn income, regardless of how it is done. Even controversial jobs, such as sex work are classified as jobs in developed countries where the sex industry is systematic, even with health insurance for workers.

So, if there is a question whether being an influencer is a job or not, the answer is Y-E-S. Influencers work to earn income through the content they create and share. But, what exactly makes an influencer a professional worker? And if one day my kids wants to become an influencer, will I support it?

_{If my kids wants to be an influencer, I would ask them, "What kind of influencer do you want to be? One who merely flaunts their body to get engagement from followers, or one who uses intelligence or artistic skills that have value for the audience?" Image source here}

If they choose the first option, I would absolutely disapprove. Digital footprints are real and last forever. And if they choose the second option, I would strongly support them. This not only applies to my kids but also to friends, relatives, or colleagues with the same interest (to be an influencer)

In the middle of tons of influencers, there are many figures I follow and admire. In Indonesia itself there are Gita Wirjawan, Sri Mulyani, and Tom Lembong who I often listen to. They are former ministers with many knowledge and experience. They influence not only in politics and economics but also inspire many people with their sharp views and broad insights.

From abroad, I follow several influencers from America who have their own shows. Trevor Noah "The Daily Show with Trevor Noah," Ellen DeGeneres "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," and Jimmy Fallon with "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon." Each of them has a different kind of pf style but manages to deliver comedy in an intelligent way. They discuss social and political issues with humor that makes us laugh while thinking.

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Although there is no specific school/education to become an influencer, some skills such as communication, creativity, and understanding social media algorithms are essential. I’ve seen firsthand how people scramble to "battle" with social media algorithms whose its policies often change overtime.

The life of an influencer can also be a role model if they use their influence for positive things. They have a wide reach, and if used wisely, that influence can bring about much good. A positive influencer can inspire millions to do good things and raise awareness about important issues. However, we must also be wise in choosing whom we follow and make our role model.

Society actually has its own mechanism to determine which influencers are worth following and which are not. We just need institutions that ensure influencers do not have a negative impact on society, especially children. For example, regulations on safe content and digital ethics can be a good way to control it.

_{Being an influencer is not an easy job. Behind their beautiful photos and funny videos, there is hard work that goes unseen. From brainstorming content ideas, taking pictures, editing, to interacting with followers, everything requires much time and effort. Image source here}

The influencer profession indeed offers many benefits, but there are also significant challenges behind it. Influencers must continually innovate and stay relevant in the middle of tight competition. They also have to be ready to face criticism and public pressure. They must've tough...

To my lovely kids: If one day you decide to become an influencer, I hope you do it with sincere intentions and the right way. I will fully support you as long as you commit to creating beneficial and inspiring content. And who knows, maybe you will become an influencer who can inspire many people and bring positive changes to the world.