Keep It 100: Authenticity in Influencer Marketing and Social Media
Keep It 100 means being completely honest, transparent, and genuine in your communication—especially crucial for brands, influencers, and marketers aiming to build real trust and engagement.
What Does Keep It 100 Mean?
"Keep It 100" is slang for "keep it 100% real." It’s about being honest, genuine, and transparent in your words and actions. On social media and in influencer marketing, it signals authenticity and builds trust with your audience.
Why Authenticity Matters
- Trust wins customers. When you’re upfront, people believe you.
- Engagement grows. Real talk sparks real conversations.
- Brand loyalty skyrockets. Followers stick around when they feel valued and understood.
How Keep It 100 Plays Out in Influencer Marketing
1. Honest Reviews: An influencer chooses a product they genuinely love (or dislikes) and shares the truth—both pros and cons.
2. Behind-the-Scenes Access: Brands give followers a peek into product development or daily operations, humanizing the business.
3. Unscripted Moments: Short videos or stories with no flashy edits—just real-time reactions, mistakes, and all.
Example:
Influencer Mia tests a new skincare line. Instead of a polished ad, she films her first impression live, noting texture, scent, and immediate feel. Viewers appreciate her unfiltered feedback and ask follow-up questions—building deeper engagement.
Common Misconceptions and Variations
- Misconception: “Keeping it 100” means airing every thought.
Reality: It’s about relevant transparency, not oversharing private details.
- Variation: “100% Authentic” or “Real Talk Only.”
These phrases carry the same weight—emphasizing honesty and relatability.
Why Brands and Creators Should Care
- DTC Brands: Genuine storytelling differentiates you in a crowded market.
- Small Businesses: Transparency on pricing, sourcing, and process fosters community support.
- Creators & Influencers: Authentic content boosts algorithmic favor, leading to better reach and partnerships.
Practical Tips to Keep It 100
1. Define Your Values: Know what matters to you and your audience—then speak to those values.
2. Prepare, Don’t Script: Outline key points but let your personality shine.
3. Share Both Sides: Highlight successes and admit areas for improvement.
4. Engage in Real Time: Use polls, Q&A, and live sessions to listen and respond honestly.
5. Monitor Feedback: Look at comments and DMs—use audience insights to stay aligned.
Keeping it 100 isn’t a one-off stunt; it’s a mindset. When brands and creators commit to authenticity, they build meaningful relationships that stand the test of time.
