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Brand Advocacy

Hybrid Influencer

What is Hybrid Influencer? Learn the meaning of Hybrid Influencer in brand advocacy and marketing. Understand how Hybrid Influencer works, why it matters and how it supports growth with Duel

Definition

A hybrid influencer is an individual who combines elements of traditional influence with authentic brand advocacy—often acting as both a content creator and a genuine fan of the brand. Unlike typical paid influencers, hybrid influencers may have a mix of commercial partnerships and organic connections to the products they promote.

Hybrid influencers often start as customers, ambassadors, or employees and evolve into more formalised roles based on trust, credibility, and performance. This blend of authenticity and reach makes them valuable for long-term advocacy and high-performing campaigns.

They may operate across tiers (e.g. micro or macro) and are frequently activated in ambassador programmes, community-driven campaigns, or gifting strategies.

Example sentence

“The brand prioritised hybrid influencers—existing customers with engaged followings—for its ambassador initiative.”