Insights on Instagram by an Influencer: Bandana Paul

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If you would have to introduce yourself in a gist, what all will you include about yourself?

My name is Bandana Paul. I would like to introduce myself as a blogger/influencer/writer and musician. I grew up in a city called Guwahati in Assam and shifted to Kolkata almost 4 years back to pursue my Master’s Degree in Journalism & Mass Communication. I also happen to enjoy cooking and traveling and maybe someday I shall own a restaurant that I call my own. I live on the outskirts of the City of Joy with my parents and pet hamster, Tintin. 

What led you to start your page on Instagram and what is it about?

I am a lifestyle blogger but I started with fashion first as being from the North East did make my fashion sense a little more forward than the mainstream. I also did some stints as a food blogger in the past.

I grew up in a middle-class family. Meaning, I never really got the chance to work with big props or make a name out of myself by making contact with the big leagues. So I decided to start something on my own with Instagram. I started with uploading photos of myself in fashionable outfits or posting music and other stuff like that when a local photographer of Kolkata noticed me and asked me to start modeling. I did a brief stint of that too but it was mostly freelance work. But at least it got me the necessary content. Eventually, I started getting brand deals and my ship sailed. 

How would you distinguish the term blogger from an influencer?

It’s really simple, a blogger is a person who owns a website where they host a blog and publish original content. An influencer is somebody who basically has a massive follower count on any online platform and thus their reviews on that platform may persuade people to buy the products they promote. I would also like to declare officially that not all influencers are bloggers. PERIOD. 

Is it financially sustainable to be an influencer today?

I think, if you can play your cards right and learn how to market yourself and the work you do, you will easily be in a financially stable position as an influencer. But be extremely careful about your personal info like passwords or pins. 

What do you think influences consumer behavior?

I think when a consumer is online, they obviously must follow some kind of influencer. The influencer’s wall is almost filled with product reviews or sponsored posts. It is pretty attention-grabbing. Once the attention has been pursued, they get interested to know about the said product. If they like the product, they will have a desire to own the product and finally, they take the action of buying it. It’s all about how you play with your content so that you can put the name of a said product in the subconscious of a potential consumer.

Your opinion on Instagram contemplating removing likes option for posts.

I really think it’s a great deal. That way a lot of bloggers/influencers get off their high horses and maybe remember their humble beginnings. Brands will focus on content over likes and the community will be happy again.

Which is your favorite book and why?

I am not a reader specifically, it takes me months to finish a book. Although my favorite book would be Love In The Time Of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia Marquez. I like stories about undying love. I love LOVE. It’s a beautiful concept and gives you the necessary dopamine to continue living life. (Tries not to give away story deets)

What is your idea of success or your mantra in life?

I cannot stress this enough, but it’s minding my own business. I come across several people who say stuff about me and I do give them responses but I try not to go below the belt. I do however also advise people to avoid negative energy and if someone is speaking ill about you somewhere, take it as publicity. Because you still are on their minds and mouths.