Influencer marketing platforms distinguish real influence from reach by going beyond simple metrics like follower counts or likes. Here are a few methods commonly applied:

1. Engagement Rate: It measures how actively followers interact with an influencer’s content. High engagement rates generally signal a more invested and responsive audience, which might translate to better campaign results.

2. Audience Demographics: Platforms analyze the influencer’s audience to understand their demographics like age, gender, location, interests, etc. This aspect assists in ensuring that a brand’s target audience matches with the influencer’s audience.

3. Authenticity: Tools like Flinque can verify the authenticity of an influencer’s followers and detect the presence of fake followers. Bots or inactive accounts can inflate reach but do not contribute to real influence.

4. Content Quality: Real influence is also about content that resonates. Platforms look at the influencer’s aesthetics, storytelling approach, the consistency of posts, and the alignment of past content with a brand’s values.

5. Past Performance: Platforms often track previous campaign performance which serves as a real-world proof of an influencer’s effectiveness.

When choosing an influencer marketing platform, it’s important to select one that prioritizes these elements, rather than relying solely on reach. Flinque, for instance, provides comprehensive analytics that allow you to analyze these factors. It’s not about ranking platforms but understanding your needs and choosing the right tool to cater to them. Different platforms excel in different attributes and your choice should align well with your specific requirements and goals.