As the 2024 presidential election approaches, the Democratic field is wide open following President Biden’s decision not to seek re-election. With the race heating up, it’s crucial for Democratic candidates to build relationships with key voting blocs, including Muslim Americans. A growing and diverse population, Muslim voters can be decisive, particularly in battleground states like Michigan and Pennsylvania. But to secure their votes, candidates must do more than simply address their policy concerns—they need to overcome barriers to participation and cut through the noise of political messaging.

Get as Many Muslims as Possible to Accept Voting as Permissible

One critical element of engaging Muslim voters is addressing the misconception that voting might be impermissible (haram) under Islamic law. Many Muslims follow the principles of Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh), which governs their daily decisions, including political participation.

According to Dr. Wael Hamza, Fiqh is “our understanding and knowledge of Allah’s law.” Within this framework, a growing consensus among Islamic scholars asserts that voting can be Halal (permissible) because it serves a greater good: helping to avert hardship and prevent tyranny. This is particularly true in a political landscape where Muslim Americans may face targeted policies if they do not participate in elections.

Campaigns must recognize this dynamic and work with organizations like Emgage and CAIR (Council on American-Islamic Relations), which are already addressing these concerns. By framing voting as a way to protect civil rights and counteract Islamophobia, Democratic candidates can encourage more Muslim Americans to participate in the 2024 election. Emgage, for example, has been actively working to educate and mobilize Muslim voters, providing religious and legal arguments that voting is both a civic duty and a religiously permissible act in the context of American democracy.

Cutting Through the Noise to Reach Muslim Voters

The challenge in engaging Muslim voters is not just about addressing Fiqh concerns but also breaking through the overwhelming volume of political messaging. Like many other demographics, Muslim voters are inundated with political ads and information, making it difficult for campaigns to stand out.

To cut through the noise, candidates need to adopt tailored, culturally-sensitive marketing strategies. In our previous article, we discussed how effective outreach to Muslim consumers requires a clear understanding of the community’s values and priorities. This is where digital marketing strategies come into play—targeted ads, content that resonates with Muslim concerns, and authentic, values-based engagement. For instance, messaging that highlights a candidate’s stance on civil rights, healthcare access, and foreign policy in relation to Muslim-majority countries can resonate more than generic campaign promises.

Online platforms such as ours, Muslim Ad Network, are powerful tools for connecting with Muslim voters. These platforms allow campaigns to deliver specific content through trusted channels within the community, ensuring that political messaging is not only heard but trusted. Muslim Americans often prefer content that reflects their faith and values, so candidates must be thoughtful in their communication strategies.

The Role of Grassroots Organizations

Grassroots organizations like Emgage USA and MPower Change have been instrumental in mobilizing Muslim voters across the country. They offer a blueprint for how candidates can engage with this community. Emgage, for example, focuses on voter registration, education, and civic engagement, helping to increase Muslim voter turnout. In 2020, the organization helped push Muslim voter turnout to new highs in key battleground states, with a focus on electing candidates who support justice and equity for all.

These organizations can provide a bridge between political campaigns and the Muslim community, offering both trust and insight into the concerns of Muslim voters. By partnering with these grassroots movements, Democratic candidates can demonstrate their commitment to Muslim issues and provide the resources needed to mobilize voters. Whether it’s through town halls, targeted ads, or social media campaigns, collaboration with these organizations can amplify the impact of voter outreach efforts.

Why the Muslim Vote Matters in 2024

In previous elections, the Muslim vote has been underestimated or taken for granted. But with over 1 million eligible Muslim voters in the U.S., their impact cannot be ignored. Muslim voters are concentrated in critical swing states, making them key to deciding close races. In 2020, Muslim turnout in places like Michigan helped tip the scales in Joe Biden’s favor.

This election cycle, the stakes are even higher. As noted by Al Jazeera, Muslim voters are not monolithic but share common concerns about civil rights, Islamophobia, and U.S. foreign policy. For many, the re-emergence of Donald Trump as a frontrunner for the GOP nomination brings back memories of policies like the “Muslim ban” and divisive rhetoric that fueled Islamophobia. At the same time, Governor Ron DeSantis’ right-wing stance on immigration and foreign policy is likely to alienate Muslim voters even further.

In response, Democratic candidates must position themselves as defenders of civil liberties and champions of human rights, both domestically and internationally. Addressing concerns about U.S. foreign policy—particularly in Palestine, Yemen, and Syria—will be essential in maintaining the trust of Muslim voters. As seen in The Nation’s analysis of Muslim voter behavior in the U.K. and U.S., voters are increasingly demanding more from political parties, and the 2024 election will be no different.

Building a Long-Term Relationship with Muslim Voters

Securing the Muslim vote in 2024 requires more than just one-off promises during election season. Candidates must demonstrate a long-term commitment to the issues that matter most to Muslim Americans. Whether it’s combating Islamophobia, reforming immigration policies, or addressing global conflicts involving Muslim-majority nations, the Democratic field must present a clear and credible vision for the future.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) is urging Muslim voters to participate in campaigns like “Vote for Justice,” which emphasizes voting as a tool for achieving equity and combating injustice. Candidates who align their platforms with these values and engage authentically with Muslim communities will find themselves with a motivated, engaged electorate ready to vote in 2024.

In conclusion, the 2024 election presents a unique opportunity for Democratic candidates to secure the Muslim vote by addressing religious concerns, cutting through the noise with culturally relevant messaging, and collaborating with grassroots organizations. With the right strategy, Muslim voters could play a decisive role in the outcome of this high-stakes election.

Those who believe that voting is permissible, go out and do your duties. Those who feel differently should respect the ijtihaad (effort towards doing what one believes is right) of others. And vice versa too.

In the end, it is Allah the almighty who gives power and honor and takes it away. We just do our part.

Say: “O Allah! Lord of Power (And Rule), Thou givest power to whom Thou pleasest, and Thou strippest off power from whom Thou pleasest: Thou enduest with honour whom Thou pleasest, and Thou bringest low whom Thou pleasest: In Thy hand is all good. Verily, over all things Thou hast power. Quran 3:26

The post Mobilizing Muslim Voters in 2024: A Strategic Approach for Democratic Candidates appeared first on Muslim Ad Network.

Understanding Compassion Fatigue Among Muslim Gen Z

Generation Z, particularly within the Muslim community, is navigating a complex world where constant digital engagement and global awareness are both empowering and overwhelming. This generation is frequently exposed to a relentless stream of socio-political issues, humanitarian crises, and environmental challenges, leading to what is commonly known as “compassion fatigue.” This phenomenon is characterized by emotional exhaustion and a reduced capacity to empathize, stemming from repeated exposure to distressing events.

For Muslim Gen Z, who are deeply connected to their faith and the global ummah (community), this can be particularly taxing. Their strong sense of justice and responsibility towards their fellow humans can make them more susceptible to the effects of compassion fatigue. A study highlighted that over 60% of Muslim travelers were Millennials or Gen Z, underscoring their global mindset and the importance of understanding their unique needs and challenges ​(Mastercard).

The Role of Digital Media in Compassion Fatigue

Digital media plays a central role in the lives of Gen Z, serving as both a source of information and a platform for social activism. However, the constant exposure to negative news, social injustices, and global crises through social media can lead to a sense of helplessness and burnout. A report by McKinsey highlights that Gen Z is the least optimistic about their future compared to other generations, with lower levels of emotional and social well-being​ (McKinsey & Company).

For Muslim Gen Z, who often engage with content related to global issues affecting Muslim communities—such as conflicts, humanitarian crises, and discrimination—the impact of digital media can be even more pronounced. The pressure to stay informed and active on social issues, combined with the overwhelming nature of the content, can lead to disengagement as a coping mechanism.

The Impact on Brand Engagement

Brands aiming to connect with Muslim Gen Z consumers face the challenge of engaging an audience that is both deeply concerned with social issues and increasingly desensitized due to compassion fatigue. Traditional marketing strategies that rely on emotional appeals or shock value may no longer resonate with this demographic. Instead, brands need to adopt a more nuanced approach that aligns with the ethical and spiritual values of Muslim Gen Z.

The travel habits of Muslim Gen Z are particularly telling of their broader values. Their interest in exploring different cultures and their preference for ethical and halal-certified products during their travels provide insights into their expectations from brands. They value authenticity, cultural sensitivity, and social responsibility, whether at home or abroad. For instance, a brand that supports eco-friendly travel or offers halal-certified products in various global locations is more likely to appeal to this audience.

Strategies for Brands to Connect with Muslim Gen Z

1. Emphasize Authenticity and Transparency: Muslim Gen Z consumers are highly discerning and skeptical of performative activism. Brands must ensure that their social responsibility efforts are genuine and transparent. This could include clear communication about the sourcing of halal products, transparent supply chains, and real commitments to sustainability and ethical practices. For example, a fashion brand might highlight its use of ethically sourced materials and provide transparency about its labor practices.
2. Support Mental Health Initiatives: With the rise of compassion fatigue, there is a growing need for mental health support within the Muslim community. Brands can contribute by funding or partnering with organizations that focus on mental health awareness and support, particularly within an Islamic context. This not only addresses a critical need but also positions the brand as a supporter of holistic well-being, which resonates with Muslim values of taking care of the body and soul.
3. Create Value-Driven Content: Instead of overwhelming Muslim Gen Z with distressing news or heavy-handed messaging, brands should focus on creating content that inspires and empowers. Highlighting positive stories within the global Muslim community, showcasing innovative solutions to global challenges, or sharing uplifting stories of resilience can provide a much-needed positive outlook. For instance, content that celebrates successful Muslim entrepreneurs or highlights community-driven initiatives can be particularly effective.
4. Leverage Influencer Partnerships: Influencer marketing remains a powerful tool, but it must be approached with care. Brands should partner with Muslim influencers who genuinely embody the values their brand stands for. These influencers can help bridge the gap between the brand and the Gen Z audience by delivering messages that resonate on a personal and spiritual level. Influencers who are known for their activism, ethical stance, or contributions to the community can lend credibility and authenticity to brand messages.
5. Facilitate Community Engagement: Encourage initiatives that allow Muslim Gen Zers to actively participate in meaningful ways. Whether through community service projects, digital activism, or supporting local causes, brands should offer platforms for this generation to channel their energy towards constructive and impactful actions. For example, a brand could organize a global campaign that invites Muslim youth to share their stories of community service or activism, with the brand amplifying these voices on a larger scale.

The Importance of Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity

Muslim Gen Z places a high value on inclusivity and cultural sensitivity, particularly in how brands represent their identity and values. Brands must be careful to avoid tokenism or superficial representations of Muslim culture. Instead, they should strive to engage with this demographic in a way that respects their traditions, values, and unique experiences. This could involve everything from inclusive product offerings (such as modest fashion lines) to marketing campaigns that reflect the diversity and richness of the Muslim community.

Conclusion

Engaging Muslim Gen Z in today’s world requires brands to move beyond traditional marketing approaches. By understanding the realities of compassion fatigue and aligning efforts with the core values of authenticity, transparency, and community support, brands can foster meaningful connections with this influential demographic.

If your brand is serious about connecting with Muslim Gen Z in a meaningful and impactful way, Muslim Ad Network is here to help. We specialize in delivering ad strategies that resonate with the unique needs and values of the Muslim community, particularly the emerging Gen Z demographic. Our expertise lies in understanding the cultural nuances and ethical considerations that are paramount to engaging this audience authentically.

Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with an empowered generation that is shaping the future. Contact Muslim Ad Network today to explore how we can help your brand engage with Muslim Gen Z in a way that is both meaningful and sustainable.For more insights and data on Muslim Gen Z consumers, visit our blog at Muslim Ad Network. Let’s work together to create campaigns that not only resonate but also make a real difference.

The post Engaging a Compassion-Weary Muslim Gen Z: Strategies for Brands appeared first on Muslim Ad Network.

The modest fashion industry, traditionally associated with Muslim women, has rapidly expanded over the past decade, becoming a significant segment within the global fashion market. The rise of modest fashion is not merely a cultural phenomenon but also a commercial one, driven by a diverse range of consumers seeking fashionable yet modest clothing. As this market continues to grow, technology is playing an increasingly crucial role in shaping its future. From social media platforms to AI-driven design processes, technology is revolutionizing how modest fashion is created, marketed, and consumed.

Social Media and the Rise of Modest Fashion

One of the most significant technological influences on the modest fashion market has been the proliferation of social media platforms, particularly TikTok and Instagram. These platforms, supported by ethical scheduling tools like Buffer and Hootsuite, have become vital spaces for modest fashion brands to connect with their audiences, showcase their products, and build brand loyalty. TikTok, in particular, has transformed the modest fashion market by allowing brands and influencers to reach millions of viewers with short, engaging videos. The platform’s algorithm-driven content discovery has enabled modest fashion brands to go viral, rapidly expanding their reach and customer base.

At Muslim Ad Network, we’ve observed that the rise of modest fashion shops on social media has been a game-changer for the industry. These platforms have democratized fashion, allowing smaller brands to compete with established names by leveraging the power of social media to engage directly with consumers. By using these tools to schedule and monitor content, brands can ensure their marketing strategies are both effective and culturally sensitive, allowing them to significantly boost their visibility and influence in the modest fashion market.

The Impact of AI on Modest Fashion Design

Artificial intelligence (AI) is another technological force driving change in the modest fashion industry. AI is increasingly being used to analyze fashion trends, predict consumer behavior, and even assist in the design process. Brands using AI tools like Google AI for trend analysis can better understand the preferences of their target audience, allowing them to create products that resonate more deeply with consumers.

For instance, AI can analyze vast amounts of data from social media, online shopping behavior, and fashion blogs to identify emerging trends in modest fashion. This data-driven approach enables brands to stay ahead of the curve, designing collections that are not only stylish but also aligned with the modesty requirements of their consumers. Additionally, AI-driven tools such as Replika can streamline the design process by offering personalized recommendations based on past successes, reducing the time and cost associated with bringing new products to market.

However, the use of AI in modest fashion is not without controversy, particularly when it comes to AI-generated images. AI-generated imagery has the potential to misrepresent modest fashion, either by failing to adhere to cultural standards of modesty or by creating images that lack authenticity. This has raised concerns among consumers and industry professionals alike, who worry that AI could dilute the cultural significance of modest fashion.

To address these concerns, we believe that brands should turn to specialized tools like Dignify: AI Program for Modest Clothing, which focuses on generating images that adhere to the principles of modesty. Dignify ensures that AI-generated content aligns with the cultural and religious values that are central to modest fashion, providing a more ethical and respectful approach to using AI in this space.

E-Commerce and Virtual Try-Ons

The rise of e-commerce has also been instrumental in the growth of the modest fashion industry. Online shopping platforms have made it easier for consumers to access modest fashion from around the world, breaking down geographical barriers and allowing brands to reach a global audience. However, one of the challenges of online shopping, particularly for modest fashion, is ensuring that the clothing fits and meets the modesty requirements of the consumer.

To address this, many brands are turning to virtual try-on technology, which allows consumers to see how clothing will look on them before making a purchase. This technology, offered by ethical solutions like Zyler and Virtusize, uses augmented reality (AR) to create a virtual fitting room experience, enabling shoppers to try on different outfits from the comfort of their homes. These tools respect consumer privacy by using anonymized data and requiring minimal personal information, ensuring a secure and trustworthy shopping experience. Virtual try-ons are particularly beneficial for modest fashion consumers, who often need to consider factors such as length, coverage, and layering when selecting clothing.

The Future of Modest Fashion

As technology continues to advance, its impact on the modest fashion industry will only grow. From AI-driven design to social media marketing and virtual try-ons, technology is transforming every aspect of the modest fashion market. For brands looking to tap into this rapidly expanding market, staying ahead of technological trends will be crucial.

Moreover, the intersection of technology and modest fashion presents new opportunities for innovation. Brands that embrace these technological advancements, while using ethical tools, will not only enhance their offerings but also position themselves as leaders in an increasingly competitive market. As the modest fashion industry continues to evolve, technology will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping its future, offering exciting possibilities for both consumers and brands alike.

In conclusion, the modest fashion industry is at the forefront of a technological revolution that is redefining how fashion is designed, marketed, and consumed. For brands targeting Muslim consumers, understanding and leveraging these technological trends, while maintaining ethical standards, will be key to success in this dynamic and fast-growing market.

At Muslim Ad Network, we specialize in helping brands connect with the Muslim consumer market. If your brand is looking to tap into the growing modest fashion industry, contact us today to learn how we can help you navigate this exciting space with effective advertising strategies. Advertise with us to reach your target audience in a culturally sensitive and impactful way.

The post The Role of Technology in Shaping the Future of Modest Fashion appeared first on Muslim Ad Network.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in how young Muslims, particularly those in Gen Z, conduct online searches. Instead of relying on traditional search engines like Google, many are turning to social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram for information and discovery. This trend is part of a broader movement among younger generations but holds specific relevance for Muslim youth navigating their unique cultural and religious contexts.

The Rise of Social Media for Search

A study by Forbes Advisor highlights that a significant number of young consumers now prefer social media platforms over search engines for discovering products and services. Specifically, TikTok and Instagram are leading the charge, with 33% of Gen Z preferring these platforms for searches related to fashion, beauty, food, and lifestyle trends. This shift is not just about convenience; it’s about the type of content and community engagement that social media offers, which traditional search engines struggle to match​​.

Why Social Media?

1. Visual and Engaging Content: Platforms like TikTok and Instagram provide visually engaging content that resonates more with Gen Z. For instance, short videos and stories can quickly capture attention and convey information more dynamically than text-based search results.

2. Influencer Trust: Many young Muslims trust influencers who share similar values and lifestyles. Influencers often provide authentic reviews and recommendations, making their advice more relatable and trustworthy than anonymous Google search results.

3. Community and Interaction: Social media allows for community engagement and interaction. Muslim Gen Z can follow, comment, and engage with content creators and other users who share their interests and values, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Specific Searches by Muslim Gen Z

According to the study, Gen Z uses social media primarily for:

• Fashion and Beauty Trends: Young Muslims often look for modest fashion tips and halal beauty products, which are abundantly discussed and showcased by influencers on platforms like Instagram.
• Food and Recipes: TikTok has become a hub for discovering halal recipes and food trends, making it a go-to source for culinary inspiration.
• DIY and Lifestyle: Craft and DIY projects, often aligned with Islamic teachings of creativity and sustainability, are also popular search topics on these platforms.

Conversely, they still rely on Google for more substantial needs such as:

• Professional Services: For finding places to go or professional services, Google remains the preferred tool due to its comprehensive and reliable nature.
• Big Purchases: When it comes to making significant purchases, the detailed reviews and comparison features available on Google are unmatched.

The Role of AI in Shaping Search Trends

As technology evolves, so do search habits. The integration of AI into search engines, like Google’s implementation of ChatGPT-like responses, aims to enhance search experiences by providing conversational and context-aware results. However, social media platforms are also incorporating AI, such as TikTok’s AI chatbot and Meta’s AI assistant, to keep users engaged and informed​​.

Further Insights

We emphasize that marketing to Muslim Gen Z requires an understanding of their digital behaviors and cultural values. In our article, we highlight the importance of authenticity, social responsibility, and inclusive content that resonates with this demographic. Brands should leverage short, engaging, and visually appealing content while maintaining a presence on platforms where Muslim Gen Z is most active​​.

Marketing Implications

For businesses and marketers aiming to reach Muslim Gen Z, understanding these trends is crucial. Tailoring content to be visually appealing and leveraging influencer partnerships can significantly boost engagement. Additionally, integrating social media insights into broader marketing strategies can help in creating more targeted and effective campaigns.

If you’re looking to reach Muslim Gen Z effectively, Muslim Ad Network can help you to understand the unique cultural and religious contexts and connect with your audience more authentically. Explore Muslim Ad Network to find out how you can enhance your marketing efforts and engage with Muslim Gen Z on the platforms they prefer.

The shift towards social media for search among Muslim Gen Z reflects broader trends of digital engagement and the quest for relatable, community-driven content. By understanding and adapting to these preferences, businesses can better connect with this dynamic and influential demographic. The future of search for Muslim Gen Z may be less about traditional algorithms and more about the dynamic, personalized, and social experiences offered by these platforms.

For more details on the study and its findings, you can refer to the Forbes Advisor report and related insights on Marketing Dive.

The post Why Gen Z Muslims Are Turning to Social Media Over Google for Searches appeared first on Muslim Ad Network.

In a social media u-turn, one of the most popular trends dominating attention on TikTok encourages users to stop spending too much. Users are being urged, by a new generation of influencers, to practice sustainability and abstain from passing fashion trends.

In just a few weeks since the craze started, thousands of videos with the hashtag #deinfluencing amassed nearly 200 million views.

Deinfluencing Has Come at the Right Time

At a time when the cost of living keeps rocketing up, it makes so much sense that social media influencers find a home in such a trend. Many of the same individuals who have admired and acted upon influencers’ consumer advice believe it to be immoral and crude for them to advise their followers to make unnecessary purchases when some people cannot afford to eat. What’s worse is that influencers are not only given these products as gifts; they are also paid to advertise them.

Deinfluencing TikTok videos don’t only come in a “don’t-buy-this” format, they can be as simple as the influencer actually showing what they use in real life, like Aysha Harun who has 6.6 million likes on TikTok:

It can also come in the form of showing what one purchased for very little money and still looks good on you.

Deinfluencing is a sensible strategy when people are actively looking for ways to save money right now. Excessive consumption generally has a downside, not the least of which is how harmful it is to the environment.

After subsisting on a diet of paid partnerships and sponsored content, your Muslim customers are starving for authenticity, which is one of the main reasons deinfluencing is popular. Whether to trust or not to trust influencers is an issue. This is connected to an overall feeling of gloom about living in a culture where we are constantly sold something.

Every Muslim brand should consider supporting or even implementing deinfluencing. It seeks to combat the insatiable desire for material goods promoted by influencers and the latest trends. If mainstream audiences are realizing they don’t need an abundance of material things, imagine how this will resonate even more with Muslim consumers. 

Deinfluencing is essentially the rejection of extreme influencer culture and embracing being moderate. In this day and age, it may appear to be an extremely brave declaration, but moderation in our lives and actions is a fundamental concept in Islam.

But waste not by excess: for Allah loveth not the wasters.

Source: Quran 6:141

Moderation means the praiseworthy character traits situated in between two extremes-excess and deficiency-like generosity, which is between extravagance and stinginess; and courage, which is between foolhardiness and cowardice. Moderation means ‘justice’.

Source: Moderation in Islam

Skepticism Around Deinfluencing

It’s great to discourage unnecessary consumption, but deinfluencing is still in its early stages. It remains to be seen whether it will have the desired impact on influencer culture. Some question whether the trend will have a positive impact, owing to the fact that some “deinfluence” certain products only to turn around and recommend alternatives, effectively promoting a product.

For example, removing a popular halal cosmetic product and promoting the one the influencer uses instead still encourages spending. Some argue that using this type of deinfluencing  content defeats the whole purpose of it. One could argue that this is a bit harsh. Why? Because it is best practice to provide an alternative when telling someone to stop doing something; otherwise, they will continue to do it. 

Moderation in purchasing is a trend that could restore sanity and balance to social media purchasing behaviors, and deinfluencing could be the first step.

End of Influencer Marketing?

This is by no means the end of influencer marketing and if you are looking for Muslim influencers, the deinfluencing trend should not deter you. Recommending and selling is still a  powerful consumerist tool. However, you should expect influencers to adopt a more authentic stance in a bid to ensure followers trust them. Being authentic is the reason why influencers became so popular in the first place.

Consumers today do not believe that influencers truly support the products they promote. In the cosmetics industry, new beauty ventures are frequently labeled as “money grabs,” and recommendations are accused of being sponsored or paid for.

“I don’t think it’s surprising that we are seeing this trend. Influencers became popular in the first place as people trusted their opinions more than traditional advertising and news. There was a hunger for the truth, seeing real people doing day-to-day things, and using products we might be interested in. But there has been a shift. With the rise of influencer marketing … some of that authenticity and trust has been lost.” – Hannah Turner, Senior Influencer Account Manager at Disrupt

Influencers may seek authenticity once more in order to protect their income, but it’s a step up from being paid a fortune to casually recommend some subpar bogus tan to millions of people.

Whether deinfluencing is just another TikTok fad or a long-term shift, one thing is certain: it has sparked a much-needed discussion about how we buy.

Conclusion

If you use influencer marketing as part of your marketing strategy, or this is something you have considered, you will know that the power lies in gaining the trust of your followers. Deinfluencing allows authenticity and although this is a word which is thrown around casually when talking about influencer marketing, it remains the key to influencer strategy. Will an anti-consumerist revolution, materializing on the very same apps that are engineered to sell to us, survive? That remains to be seen, but as long as your content is authentic you can incorporate an influencing (or deinfluencing) strategy for your halal brand, today.

The post Deinfluencing and Your Muslim Brand appeared first on Muslim Ad Network.

Andrew Tate, a British-American kickboxer and internet personality, has converted to Islam, according to several online media outlets.

A video of Andrew Tate praying (Salah) at a mosque in Dubai has gone viral on social media platforms. Andrew is shown in a video learning how to pray from renowned MMA fighter Tam Khan in Dubai.

Despite being banned by most of the major social media platforms for his brutal and direct style of expression, he was still the third most googled personality on the internet (stats from September 2022).

The Most Searched People in 2022

There are plenty of articles online talking about his journey toward Islam, but our article is not about that. What is so astonishing is Tate’s popularity with young Muslim men in the west. 

Can your halal brand learn anything from him?

Before we go any further you need to understand that Andrew Tate made many choices in life and said many things that are not compatible with Islam. However, he was not a Muslim at the time when he said it. So if you are a Muslim reading this, I suggest caution when looking up his material. Don’t say you were not warned :)!

Now let us look at the marketing side of things:

1. Why he drew in so many young Muslim men
2. What lessons your halal brand can learn from all of this

Filling Gaps in the Muslim Community

On Muslim Ad Network we have mentioned the attitude that young Muslims in the West have today so many times. They want to be spoken to like they matter and Andrew Tate did just that.

• To begin with, he praised Islam and implied that it is the solution to today’s problems whenever he got a chance. 
• He advocated men being men and them having to get off their backs and become people of value.
• In Islam, men are expected to be strong leaders of their community, yet many young Muslim men never felt that there was an alternative to being pushed down with accusations of toxic masculinity whenever they stood up for their manhood until he came along.
• Some liked him because they believed that despite some controversy surrounding him, he brought positive attention to Islam.

“We shouldn’t be dismissing someone just because he said something you didn’t like,” Huzaifa told Middle East Eye. “As Muslims, we should be happy and honored that a non-Muslim with such a high following and reach like Tate is bringing more attention to our religion.”  – Middle East Eye

For good or bad, we could go on and on about why he attracted so many young Muslim men in the west.

However, there is a bigger issue here that needs to be addressed. It seems there is a big gap in the needs and wants of young Muslims in the west that is not being catered to. This leaves the Muslim youth vulnerable as they seek to find that satisfaction in places that may not be appropriate. At least with Andrew Tate, he was sincere to Islam’s teachings and reverted to Islam but what’s next? This is an issue that needs all Muslims to come together and work on as one nation so it is too big for us at Muslim Ad Network to talk about in depth.

But, as the world’s biggest Ad Network that specializes in targeting Muslim consumers, we know a thing or two about marketing and advertising and what your Muslim or halal brand can learn from Andrew Tate.

Andrew Tate Marketing Strategy for Muslim Brands

Let us now look at how Andrew Tate built and maintains his personal brand and what your Muslim or Halal brand can adopt to attract more Muslim consumers.

So there it is. We pray for our brother and new revert to Islam, Andrew Tate to stay strong and on the right path. 

Get proactive and start implementing the tactics mentioned above for a stronger presence and better advertising to your Muslim audience.

The post What Muslim Brands Can Learn From Andrew Tate – a New Muslim appeared first on Muslim Ad Network.

We recently published an article to help you find the right influencers for your halal marketing. What if you were able to take it a step further and work with a virtual influencer, better known as a meta-influencer in the metaverse? 

“A virtual influencer, at times described as a virtual persona or virtual model, is a computer-generated fictional character that can be used for a variety of marketing-related purposes…” – Wiki

It seems more and more plausible that the metaverse is the next online frontier for halal brands so we encourage you to learn and experiment as much as possible.

Advertising in the metaverse for halal brands is in its early infancy, so creating and working with meta-influencers may sound too far-fetched for Muslim businesses at the moment. However, web3 is moving at the speed of light, and if you blink you get left behind. So, at the very least try to gain knowledge and start experimenting with the elements of web 3.0, like NFTs and the metaverse among other things.

Disclaimer: The Muslim Ad Network blog strives to give you top-notch information to help you market and advertise your business and organization. We urge those of the Muslim faith to investigate the permissibility (halal/haram) of tactics like creating avatars and meta-influencers for marketing purposes.

How Meta-influencers Can Change Your Muslim Marketing Approach

The metaverse – predicted to become an $800 billion industry by 2024 – offers your business or organization the chance to take advantage of consumer trends and investigate fresh ways to engage with customers. This is why influencer marketing in the metaverse is a natural piece of the puzzle. Influencer marketing is already massive on web2, with Insider Intelligence estimating it to be a $15 billion industry in 2022. 

Let’s look at the four elements of meta-influencer marketing that will change your Muslim marketing approach:

1- Collaboration

There are many ways to collaborate with influencers on social media. These include sponsored social media posts, product discount codes, and more. Although these are effective ways to establish your presence, metaverse influencer marketing offers a more captivating collaboration with your brand.

Together with a meta-influencer, you can create a fully immersive 3D experience for the Muslim consumers you are targeting. For example, you can have the meta-influencer try out different modest fashion outfits to showcase your new autumn collection to their most active followers.

2- Monetization

You can monetize your joint ventures with meta-influencers on the metaverse thanks to NFTs or non-fungible tokens. The influencers you work with can grant followers admission to your sponsored events using NFTs. For example, you can offer collectible NFTs that also serve as tickets for your next installment of Halal Expo on web3. 

When used in this way, these special tokens create income for your brand and the meta-influencer. Not only that, but it will boost brand recognition, and give your Muslim customers a sense of exclusivity.

3- Initiation

We mentioned that influencer marketing is a massive industry. It is important to know that a growing part of that belongs to meta-influencers. However, there is a growing trend of brands creating their own meta-influencers. This could be something you could explore if you are confident of its permissibility in Islam. 

Why? Because:

1) After your initial investment, you do not need to be paying large sums of money to meta-verse influencers to feature your products; Lil Miquela – for instance – is reported to get paid $1600 per Instagram post.

2) Although meta-influencers like Serah Reikka have tried to reach out to Muslim audiences, the rest of her content is not palatable to a Muslim audience. This would be the case with all the virtual influencers currently available for collaboration.

4- Diversity

The real-world influencer industry has a diversity problem. A 2020 study by MSL showed that although black, indigenous, and people of color represent a market worth $4.8 trillion in buying power, there is a 35% pay gap between black and caucasian influencers. This is the biggest racial pay gap in any industry.

This is an opportunity for you when using or creating your own meta-influencer to promote those with minority backgrounds, given that they have the relevant Muslim audience for your products of course.

Conclusion

In this short blog post, we highlighted the current situation with brands collaborating with meta-influencers. We also discussed how your brand may use these influencers to engage Muslim users in the metaverse. We would like to reiterate that at the moment you should at least focus on gaining knowledge and experimenting with web3 elements including the metaverse and meta-influencers.

To start engaging with Muslim consumers more directly through online advertising, feel free to click the “START TARGETING MUSLIM CONSUMERS” button below:

The post Marketing to Muslim Consumers With Meta-influencers appeared first on Muslim Ad Network.

Why Your Halal Brand Needs Influencers

According to Influencer Marketing Hub, influencer marketing is getting broader each day,

“…new influencer categories like financial influencers (finfluencers), skincare influencers (skinfluencers), and pet influencers (petfluencers) are emerging.” 

Moreover,

“…influencers begin to venture into other categories outside their original niche. For instance, beauty influencers have also covered other areas of interest, like travel, food, and fitness.”

So, why is this a good thing? Well, if you are targeting Muslim customers, there is a chance you have a niche product and may feel that there are not enough influencers that match what you are selling or offering as a service. Knowing about this trend changes everything for you.

In the same article, “Key Influencer Marketing Statistics You Need to Know for 2022” Jacinda Santora of Influencer Marketing Hub explains that:

“60% of marketers shared that influencer-generated content performs better and drives more engagement compared to branded posts”. She adds that by 2023 “influencer marketing expenditure is projected to reach $4.6 billion in the US alone.”

The Problem with Finding Influencers

Although you already know that influencer marketing is a big thing, what many marketers and business owners struggle with is finding the right type of influencer.

No one explains this issue better than Neal Schaffer:

“On the surface, influencer marketing seems simple enough. Find an online influencer, pay them some money, and watch them drive new faces to your product. The truth is that not just anybody can sell your product. You could back the Brinks truck into LeBron James’s driveway and offer him the world to push your product to his 40.7 million Instagram followers. But if it’s not something his followers would be interested in, it’s a massive waste of money.” You can read more about this in his article, “7 Tips and 12 Tools to Find Influencers for Your Brand”.

Know Which Type of Influencers You are Looking For

Size matters when it comes to choosing the right influencer but not how one might expect. You need to know where to find the right balance between influencer follower size and engagement for your halal business.

Influencer Type by Size

Mega-influencers – 1 million+ followers

Mega-influencers have a large following and a great reach on social media thanks to their A-list celebrity status. However, they will offer you very low engagement. Studies have found that the rate of engagement decreases as the influencer’s total follower count rises.

Macro-influencers – 50K to 500K followers

B-list celebrities  (actors, athletes, etc. who are not at the very top) or even C-list (famous for being famous, reality show stars, etc.) can leverage their reputation to help you gain followers. These can also be thought leaders with professional-style content. They have a very high price tag and may give your halal brand engagement that is just slightly better than that of mega-influencers.

Mid-tier Influencers – 50K to 500K followers

These are a powerful group of content creators who enjoy being trusted by their followers. You will get a wide reach and more engagement than with the first two categories. They have spent years getting to where they are with their audiences and are very experienced in delivering the right content.

Micro-influencers – 10K to 50K followers

This category of influencers is probably the most suited for your small or medium-sized halal business. Micro-influencers are more niche-focused and have established an intimate connection with their followers. Lesley Vos, for the Association of National Advertisers, mentioned that 82% of consumers buy products recommended by micro-influencers.

Nano-influencers – 1K to 10K followers

We would recommend nano-influencers if you are looking for strategic partners to grow together. Nano-influencers usually have a modest reach which is narrowed down to a certain niche. If your brand is in its infancy or has limited resources, nano-influencers offer an affordable alternative. However, the relationships you build over the years are priceless.

Influencer Type by Occupation

This is not an exhaustive list; also, remember what we said about new influencer categories popping up every day and how influencers are starting to explore possibilities outside their niche. We will also skip the obvious types of influencers like beauty, fashion, and travel to show you how broad the possibilities are.

Gamers

Gamers who live stream their games on platforms like Twitch or YouTube can garner millions of followers who are interested in learning more about gaming or improving their own gameplay.

Meet Yusha Eans:

Instagram mid-tire influencer with 97.7k followers and YouTube micro-influencer with 26.1k followers.

Photographers

The biggest camera companies tend to partner with the photography influencers in the mega-through micro-influencer categories to promote their cameras, lenses, and other accessories. They are among the best content creators in the industry.

Meet Amir Ahmadpour:

Instagram micro-influencer with 36.4k followers.

Parenting

A parenting influencer provides tips and tricks for new parents, reviews products, and shares their own failures and successes as parents. A wide range of products can be promoted by parenting influencers.

Meet Zuliat Lawal:

Instagram micro-influencer with 22.4k followers and a nano-influencer on YouTube with 1.54k followers.

Niche Sports

Niche sports influencers like skateboarders, arm wrestlers, free runners, and the likes, garner a lot of attention and followers. For Muslim audiences, being represented in these niches yet popular activities is really “awesome”! As a Muslim brand, it would be ideal to partner with such influencers.

Meet Ali Nasuh Mahruki:

Muslim mountain climber and macro-influencer on Twitter and Instagram with 304.9k and 343k followers respectively.

Fake Influencers

These fake accounts pay for more followers and engagement so they look like they’re influential. Some of them are easy to spot, but others require a bit more discernment.

Remember to take a close look at the following to spot any suspicious characteristics:

• Engagement rate
• Quality of comments
• Engagement with audiences
• Quality of followers
• Who they’re following

How to Find Muslim Influencers for Your Brand

Where to Look

Hashtags: Find trending hashtags relevant to your brand and reach out to influencers using them via Instagram direct message.

Influencer Marketing Platforms: Muslim influencer marketing platforms like M.I.N allow you to explore Muslim influencers in specified niches.

Social Media: Search for specific niche influencers in the search bar such as “Fashion Influencer,” or “Tech Influencer,” which can help you find influencers for your halal brand. 

Google: Google search is a vital tool for finding the right influencers, you can even come across ready-made lists of influencers in particular industries. Try searching ‘Best Muslim Fashion influencers,’ for example and there will be sites that have already created a list of them for you.

What to Look For

Meaningful Content: Look beyond follower size, and research the actual content an influencer is sharing. Check out the feeds of each influencer to see the kinds of messages they send and the causes they support.

Authority: Examine their level of familiarity and authority with the topics your brand cares about. Is their expertise apparent in their comments on the topics that matter most to your industry?

Relevant Engagement: An influencer may have a very high engagement for certain types of content they put out. However, look for content that is relevant to your brand, and if those types of posts get high engagement too.

Audience Overlap: You really need to examine the audience that the influencer engages with. There should be proper overlap and similarities between your brand’s audience and theirs. Otherwise, it won’t be of any use when it comes to creating awareness or generating demand for your product.

What to Do Next

Get Noticed: Engage with Muslim influencers on social media platforms. Comment on their posts, share their content and acknowledge their work. By doing so, you will attract their attention. Then you will be able to approach these influencers more effectively.

Approach: Now that you’ve got the influencer’s attention, send them a proposal that will earn them your business. The basic things to mention are:

• About you and how you got to know them
• The reason for reaching out
• The win-win opportunity you are offering
• The next steps they can take if they are onboard

Follow Up: Considering the high volume of messages influencers receive, your email may pass unnoticed. If you don’t hear from them after a few days, send a follow-up email. Send at least a few follow-up emails before moving on. Don’t forget to nurture your influencer relationships after your collaboration ends. It is just as important to manage your relationships with influencers, as it will benefit you in the long run.

Conclusion

As you can see from the article, getting the right type of influencers for your business is not a straightforward thing. Being a halal business or brand adds an extra layer of complication. However, considering that not many halal businesses and brands in your niche are currently doing influencer marketing with proper due diligence, you may see this as an opportunity.

Follow the tips and advice from this article and if you have any questions feel free to contact Muslim Ad Network.

The post How to Find the Right Influencers for Your Halal Brand appeared first on Muslim Ad Network.