Influencer Meets Accountant: FinFluencer
Influencer Meets Accountant: FinFluencer
Having grown up with smart phones and always-on internet connections, Generation Z has different ideas about investing and different financial priorities. While Millennials and GenX may seek out the advice of certified accountants, financial advisors, and fiduciaries, our cohort in GenZ is just as likely to open up the TikTok app or scroll through Instagram for quick explanations of complicated financial matters. To reach these potential clients, financial services companies need to rethink their approach and consider partnering with a FinFluencer. Here are a few things your company needs to know about FinFluencers:1. What is a FinFluencer?
A financial influencer is someone who shares tips and strategies on how to manage money, invest it, reduce debt, save money, and more. This is done through social media platforms, blogs, and websites. While some FinFluencers may have professional financial management experience, many do not.2. How can companies benefit from FinFluencers?
GenZ does everything through social media and the internet, from ordering food or scheduling a vacation rental to opening a bank account. This includes getting financial advice. FinFluencers can help educate their followers about not only money management skills but also new financial services and products that can help with their finacial needs. By working with FinFluencers through mechanisms like product reviews, affiliate marketing, and consumer education, companies can put their products and services in front of a much wider audience.3. What platforms do FinFluencers utilize the most?
Most FinFluencers are partial to TikTok and Instagram, though Linkedin, YouTube, and Facebook are also popular. The platforms can and do change as the social media environment evolves.4. Should you believe everything you hear?
Not necessarily. Often, a FinFluencer is not a licensed financial advisor, and many of them have little to no training in accounting, finance, or investing. If you are thinking about following a financial influencer, it is important to do your own research on the influencer and the advice before making any financial decisions.5. What are some signs of a trustworthy FinFluencer?
Some of the things to look for in a trustworthy FinFluencer include a strong personal brand, proven expertise in their field, and a good track record. They should also be open to feedback and advice, and transparent about their relationships with advertisers, sponsors, and clients.6. Some notable FinFluencers to follow:
Here are a few FinFluencers that earned large followings due to their financial expertise and common-sense advice:- The Budget Mom – @thebudgetmom
- The Budgetnista – @thebudgetnista
- Dave Ramsey – @DaveRamsey
- Suze Orman – @SuzeOrman