This week we held an influencers event and hosted 8 energy industry influencers.  I asked them all a critical question. 

What's the one thing you recommend to those seeking to become an influencer?

The overwhelming #1 answer was: be authentic and create high quality unique content.

But why is it important to become an authority in the first place?

Becoming an influencer shows that you have a high level of knowledge about your field and that others within your line of work trust you. Once you’ve become an authority, you’ll rise above others in your industry and be able to endorse key products or brands.

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But how do you actually establish that authority? Here are a few steps to help you share your expertise far and wide.

1. Select a highly specific niche

To become an effective influencer, you should substantially narrow your focus, according to Hubspot. The more specific you are, the better. For example, if you want to become well-known in the food industry, don’t start a blog that discusses all kinds of food. Try to narrow it down —write about your experiences about restaurants in your city. This way, you can establish yourself as a source of insider knowledge.

2. Create a high volume of quality content

You have to post to create a followership. 

If you’re working towards becoming an industry authority, you need to show that you know what you’re talking about. This means demonstrating that you can offer genuine value to your followers and the brands that put their trust in you. Make sure that every piece of content you create delivers genuine value to people who read it.

3. Make yourself easy to find

Of course, focusing your efforts doesn’t mean you don’t have to make an effort in spreading the word about yourself and your brand. Influencer Jeff Bullas suggests that if you’re working towards becoming an industry authority, you should “try to be everywhere.” If you want to become a successful influencer, you can’t just post on your own blog and social media pages. You need to get your name out there.

Guest post on Pink Petro and comment on blogs belonging to high performers in energy.  Post your ideas here in our community so it elevates your message.

4. Keep connecting and growing your network.

In order to become an industry authority, you need a network. Your network should consist of people who follow you and industry professionals who will help increase your knowledge, standing, and connections.

Social media is key when it comes to this. See who the people you admire are following to get ideas about who else to connect with online.

This is an ongoing process. It takes time. 

We hope you'll leverage the Pink Petro platform to create your own voice and influence in energy!