Influenster Makeover!

What Is Influenster

Influenster is a free-to-join community of invited trendsetters who live to give opinions of products and experiences. Influenster creates links between brands and members to reward participation and influence future products.

So...what exactly is Influenster? So glad you asked. Here’s a handy definition that would make Merriam-Webster proud:

Influenster [in-floo-uhn-ster]

noun

An exclusive online community where tastemakers and trendsetters (such as yourself) come to share the latest and greatest news, places, products, and reviews with each other. 2. The hotspot you just bookmarked on your web browser that turns your social influence into sweet rewards.

Basically, Influenster is a place for culture junkies to come together and share their unique opinions of products and experiences. Active members of Influenster get exclusive access to deals, promotions, and swag from brands that thrive off the input (the good, the bad, and the ugly -- they just want to know what's up).

Do I have the chops to be a member?

Probably. Members have an active social life -- both online and offline -- and are always the first to tell friends about the latest discoveries. They want to be the first to know about the products other cool people are loving and hating. Is that you? Awesome, we want you as a member.

What’s involved in a membership?

As a member, you prove your influence by gaining Expert Badges and show how you live by earning LifeStage Badges...both of which are won in a variety of ways, such as: completing surveys, writing reviews, creating videos, and engaging in other social media.

What’s in it for me?

Very important. As a contributing member of Influenster, you get the chance to share your knowledge and know-how with other like-minded people.

You also get exclusive discounts on products and services based on the Expert Badges you unlock. You’ll have access to content and sales based on your influence and area of expertise.

As an active influencer, you’ll have the chance to get invites to Influenster programs so you can try the latest and coolest products catered towards your lifestyle before anyone else.

Members who participate actively on Influenster and engage in programs increase their opportunities to receive rewards.

If you participate in online challenges, play interactive games, spread the word to your friends, and gain currency within our system, you’ll earn serious street cred.

So wait, is this about getting free stuff?

Nope. If you’re here to mooch, this isn't the place for you. Nobody, no matter how high his or her Influenster Score, is guaranteed rewards. Even if you are offered a reward, you can always opt out. The real benefit of membership is access to exclusive content, product reviews, and discussion within a community of tastemakers. Perks are just the icing on the proverbial cake.

Why is this so fun?

There are many reasons. First and foremost, it's a forum for you and your peers to share your interests and discover what other trendsetters are doing and saying. It's like-minded people coming together to inspire one another and offer advice. Secondly, you’re competing with other members for the highest Influenster Score and Expert Badge scores. Just like a game that you can win, and winning is never not fun.

How did Influenster get started?

It was a dark and stormy night…wait, that’s not right. Influenster was started in 2010 by a team of people just like you: culture and beauty junkies with a whole lot of opinions about everything. We wanted a place to come together to share our opinions and hear what other people like us had to say about products and services. The goal? To learn what other influencers care about and to help brands make products that better serve us. After so many hours of labor, out popped Influenster -- an active community where real people share their experiences and give feedback to improve the products we use and the world we live in (yeah, we went there).

After all, you don't have to be a celebrity to think Diet Coke is bubbly and delicious. Every one of us can be influential in different areas with opinions that matter. As consumers, we want to know what other people like us think about products. Influenster is our answer. We give your opinions a voice and your feedback a direct route to brands and trendsetters.

Here is what Influenster looks like now, after the makeover:

I love the new home page, and just the entire set up of the site. It’s a huge improvement over the old version. My favorite part is clicking profile, and not seeing the video error message, haha j/k. The influenster team did an excellent job.

You are given what is referred to as an Influenster Score. What your Influenster score is your rank (0-100) among all other members of Influenster. That's right, you're competing against each other. The higher the number, the higher your rank.

Now, for your likely questions…

How is it calculated?

Scores are based on:

• Useful content you add to Influenster. When other members deem your reviews, pictures, and videos on Influenster as useful by upvoting them, your score will rise. Adding many reviews does not increase your Influenster Score (though it does help your Expert Badge scores). We value quality over quantity, so only when others mark your reviews with an upvote, does your score increase.
• The strength of your other social networks (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, etc.). Members with the ability to reach more people are more influential.
• Your invited friends. Use your five invitations wisely. The more influential your referrals, the higher your score will rise.

Your score reflects your influence rank among all other members. No matter your influence or activity, there is no guarantee that your score will soar. Since thousands of other members are hard at work too, your relative ranking will not automatically increase every time you leave a useful review or gain a Facebook fan. In fact, it's quite possible that your score will fall.

Moving on to badges, there are several different types of badges. Right now we’re going to touch base on Expert Badges.

Expert Badges show off your influence and expertise in various areas. We believe all Influensters are experts in different areas and we want you to drop your knowledge so that other trendsetters and brands know what you think.

What does my Expert Badge score mean?

Your badge score shows your level of expertise and influence in that specific area.

How is my Expert Badge score calculated?

It's very scientific. Your badge score is a combination of your influence (indicated by your Influenster Score) and your expertise (gauged by your activity on Influenster). The more you contribute content related to a specific Expert Badge (reviews, Q&A, surveys), the higher your Expert Badge score rises.

How can I earn more Expert Badges?

Members receive five keys to unlock Expert Badges. As your overall Influenster standing improves, we reward you with extra keys to unlock more badges. The more active you are, the more Expert Badges you’ll unlock.

Why is there a limit on Expert Badges?

We believe our members have higher chances of improving their Influenster standings when they concentrate their activities in the areas they know the best. Basically, it's more effective for you to do less, better.

So what about LifeStage Badges?

These are badges that reflect who you are and where you are in your life. Unlike Expert Badges, these badges are not limited in quantity, so feel free to go after all that represent you.

How do my Expert Badges qualify me for VoxBoxes and programs?

Members qualify for programs based on their Expert Badges, LifeStage Badges, Influenster Badge Score and by their individual demographics. Our partnering brands want to reach out to their targeted consumer audiences, indicated by members’ Badges and scores.

I have to say I thoroughly enjoy the new badge system . It’s so much fun finding and collecting the different types of badges. Thanks for making the site more enjoyable and user-friendly .

I’m sure by now, you’re just dying to hear about the Vox Boxes am I right? First…

What's a VoxBox?

It's a reward you might get for being a great Influenster. Too vague? OK fine, it's a box filled to the brim with the hottest products that interest you. Paying attention now?

Here's how it works: Influensters are selected for FREE themed product shipments based on the Expert Badges they have unlocked and based on individual demographics. This ensures members receive products that match their interests.

Members with high scores -- within the specific badge we are targeting at the time -- are prioritized, which is all the more reason to get your Influenster and Expert Badge scores high.

Are all VoxBoxes the same?

Every VoxBox shipment has a different theme designed for each specific program. Some programs include bonus products that only a few members receive. These lucky members are selected based on Expert Badges, demographics, and past program performance. So if you're selected to participate, be sure to keep up your good activity to qualify for future programs and bonus products.

How often does Influenster send out these so-called VoxBoxes?

Influenster sends out multiple syndicated VoxBoxes featuring various brands every month. We occasionally send custom VoxBoxes as well, featuring only one special product. You'll increase your chances of being selected for both types of boxes by maintaining high Influenster and Expert Badge scores.

As a member, am I guaranteed a VoxBox?

No. Each VoxBox is sent to members based on different criteria. There are, however, ways to increase your chances of being selected. High Influenster and Expert scores, an active profile, and good performance in past programs can all benefit you, but no member is guaranteed a box.

Why didn't I qualify for this VoxBox?

Qualified members are selected based on their demographics, Expert Badges, and social activity. Each program is directed at a different demographic. In order to qualify, you must unlock Expert Badges in your areas of expertise. If you fit the demographics and your badges are a match for the VoxBox's theme, you'll have better chances of qualifying. We also encourage members to be active on social media. Maintaining an existing blog or video channel is preferred, but not required. If you didn't qualify for a specific VoxBox, cool your jets! We have many exciting programs scheduled every month giving you more chances to score an awesome box bursting at the seams with swag you'll totally want.

I received a previous VoxBox. Why do I not qualify for this program?

We are so happy you enjoyed your previous VoxBox, lucky duck! Because different programs target different demographics, you won't always be selected. There's still a chance that you'll qualify for another VoxBox in the future, so don't give up hope.

How do I know if I've been selected?

We notify members who qualify via email, so be sure that admin@influenster.com is added to your address book.

I have the Eco Badge, so why didn't I get the last Eco VoxBox?

That's a good question. Certain Expert Badges are requirements for specific VoxBox qualification, but it does not guarantee you'll be selected for each program. Your qualification also depends on your Influenster Score, your individual badge score (e.g. Eco Badge Score) and your social activity. Participation in other Influenster programs can also limit your ability to participate in new ones. Box or no box, we still love you. We hope you still love us too.

How will my VoxBox be delivered?

No horse and buggies here. Our VoxBoxes are all shipped via the United States Postal Service.

If I take a pre-qualification survey, does that mean I am definitely getting the VoxBox?

If you got a pre-qualification invite, that means you meet the basic requirements to participate in that specific VoxBox program (yay). But it does not mean you are going to make the final cut for the program (boo). Your answers to the survey will determine your ultimate qualification

Hey, so I qualified for a VoxBox ... now what?

If you agree to the Terms and Conditions, you're gravy! Opt-in to the program and update your mailing address in your profile. We'll notify you once the box is shipped with your tracking information.

If I qualify for a VoxBox, what am I obligated to do?

VoxBoxes are completely free. You're welcome. All we expect is that you test your new products and complete a post-experience survey with honest answers. If you go above and beyond with social activity and Brand Challenges, and stay super active during the VoxBox campaign, you'll be more likely to qualify for future Influenster programs. Proactivity is rewarded.

I can’t tell you how many people I have seen complaining about not getting a box, even though they’re inactive members. I just have to say it’s super rude to berate the company because of this. I believe whole-heartedly that you should earn your boxes. Sorry, but I really felt I should put that out there.

I love the VoxBox Programs their so brilliant, and it’s a great way to find some new favorite that you may not know are out there. Since my first VoxBox, I have become obsessed with imPress Press On Manicure !

Brand Challenges

Can you think of a brand that you just love?

Well guess what -- they love you too and even want to reward your for that loyalty. Warm and fuzzy feelings abound!

The brands we partner with want to reward their most loyal consumers through Brand Challenges on Influenster. By unlocking a Brand Challenge, you become a super fancy Brand Ambassador and get a chance to earn awesome stuff from them.

Unlocking Brand Challenges is easy. Just complete a few tasks on Influenster and other social channels to show your love for the brand (don't fake it, you're only cheating yourself).

Do I have to participate in Brand Challenges?

Nope! They are completely optional. But Brand Challenges are easy opportunities to earn extra goodies from the brands you love. Honestly, who doesn't love MORE free stuff? But no judgment if you opt out. Seriously, no judgment. None, none at all. Not even a little.

I'm a Brand Challenge prize winner. When will I receive my prize?

Well look at you! You'll get your Brand Challenge prize within 2-4 weeks after the big announcement.

I don't see any challenges on my profile, what gives?

Each Brand Challenge has a different eligibility requirement that is determined by the brand. These requirements can range from Influenster Scores, Expert Badge scores, or past brand usage. If you're not eligible for a Brand Challenge, improve your Influenster and Expert Badge scores to have better chances the next time around.

I didn't receive the product from Influenster, but I want to participate in the Brand Challenge. Can I?

Depends. Some Brand Challenges are part of a VoxBox campaign, and therefore only open to those who received the VoxBox. On the other hand, most Brand Challenges aren't so strict. They may be open to members who have the required Expert Badge criteria regardless of whether they received the VoxBox or not.

These are a lot of fun, and I think it’s an amazing way to pay homage to your favorite brands .

Reviews

You've got a lot to say.

And guess what? Not only does your opinion matter, but it also has the power to shape others' opinions. This is the basis of Influenster. What you think of a product, service, hotel, experience, or whatever, helps other people like you make important purchasing decisions. And vice versa.

Influenster gives you a platform to share your expert opinion and hear others'.

How do I review products?

As an exclusive member, you can create review pages for the products and services you feel strongly about. Or, simply add your two cents to existing review pages.

How do my reviews help my Influenster Score and Expert Badge score?

Each review page has up to four Expert Badges associated with it. For instance, an eco-friendly lipstick review page will be assigned the Beauty Queen Expert Badge as well as the Eco Expert Badge. By writing reviews on the existing review pages or by creating new review pages, you improve your Expert Badge scores in all relevant badge areas.

I tend to try out new things often, so I’ve found this feature to be my favorite area of the site. I’m loving getting a chance to review all the awesome items I try. It doesn’t matter what age you are whether you’re 18 or 65 they have a little bit of something for everyone . You should join today, be a part of this amazing community and opportunities. If you’re serious about join send me a message on Facebook with your e-mail address and I will send you an invite. Be sure to tell them The Glam Kitty referred you !