In influencer marketing, the shortlisting process has several factors and an influencer’s follower count is indeed one of them. However, it should be noted that the follower count itself is not the end-all-mark, but it is certainly an important consideration.

The relevance and significance of an influencer’s follower count will largely depend on specific campaign objectives. For brands seeking widespread awareness, influencers with a large follower count may be beneficial. But, high follower count does not always guarantee positive campaign results.

More often, the engagement rates of followers, quality of content, and the authenticity of the influencer’s relationship with their audience are equally if not more important. Niche influencers with a smaller, but very engaged and loyal follower base can be particularly effective for certain campaigns.

Audience analytics enabled by platforms like Flinque help brands to understand not just follower counts, but also the demographic, interests, and behaviors of the followers. This in-depth audience analysis helps in making informed, data-driven decisions during the influencer shortlisting process.

Finally, it is important to align influencers with the brand’s image and values as it strengthens the effectiveness of the campaign. Therefore, while the follower count is a significant criterion, it should not overshadow other aspects like authenticity, engagement, and relevance. This holistic approach ensures that the influencer can truly resonate with the intended audience and facilitate successful campaigns.

In conclusion, an influencer’s follower count is significant, but it’s just one piece of a larger puzzle. Other elements necessary for shortlisting involve engagement rate, audience alignment, brand compatibility, and the authenticity of the influencer’s content.