Influencer marketing is continuing to be one of the most effective marketing strategies of 2017 and it shows no sign of slowing down.

Research is also showing that influencer marketing is growing at a more rapid pace than digital ads and eventually, it could be the most popular way of marketing products and services.

Digital ads have long been one of the best ways to market, but now brands are witnessing the power of influencer marketing and how much more effective it is.

One example of this comes from the famous soccer player Cristiano Ronaldo. He was contracted to be an influencer for Nike and since coming on board, he has helped the company to generate just under 500 million in value.

According to Forbes-

“Ronaldo posted 1,703 times overall on social media in 2016. Those posts generated 2.25 billion social interactions (likes, comments, shares, retweets and views on videos), per Hookit. Nike was referenced or its logo visible in a photo or video in 347 of the posts, which had 477 million interactions. Hookit’s methodology looks at promotion type and quality, as well as interactions and market-driven rates. The result: $499.6 million for Nike in media value from Ronaldo’s posts.”

For years, marketers have known the benefits of celebrity endorsements but influencer marketing is slightly different.

Influencer marketing is about reaching people that your audience actually cares about, and not just some generic celebrity that they feel disconnected to.

In fact, one of the biggest reasons that influencer marketing is so successful is that people trust the influencer, and when trust is there, audience members are more likely to purchase.

Influencer Marketing Builds Trust 

Unlike digital ads, influencer marketing has more of a personal approach and feels more exclusive and connected.

While digital ads rely on a media outlet, influencer marketing relies on that personal connection, and this connection can speak volumes.

Influencer marketing also allows you to focus on the top selling points of your products and services and puts your brand name in the spotlight. This can have huge impact not just in the short term but in the long term too.

Ad blockers are on the Rise

Another reason that influencer marketing has become extremely popular is that ad blockers are now on the rise.

According to the IAB, 26 percent of desktop users block ads on their web browser. This means that over one quarter of all internet goers are not even seeing your display ads.

Many online platforms are now forced to get creative when it comes to building revenue, which is why influencer marketing is also extremely appealing.

Influencer Marketing Offers a Better Exposure

Another reason that influencer marketing is growing so rapidly is because it works. Time and time again, all types of businesses have found that they have been able to get the highest return of investment through using influencer marketing.

Influencer marketing also allows your brand to be viewed on multiple platforms like social media, video and even live streams.

It is clear to see why influencer marketing is on the rise, and if your brand has not yet explored this form of marketing, now may be the perfect time to get started.