The world of esports and gaming is evolving, and they’re bringing other industries with them. Case in point, Ford Models has taken note and now represents influencers in the gaming world.

In this episode of The Future of Marketing with Esports, Rebecca Longawa talks to Justin Jacobson, Attorney and Talent Manager at Ford Models. Justin and Rebecca talk about the importance of understanding the influencer and sponsor relationship, what brands need to know to work with the right influencers in the gaming and esports industries, and some of the biggest missed opportunities they’re seeing out in this industry right now.

To connect with Justin on Twitter, visit: https://twitter.com/justinjesq

To connect with Rebecca, visit: https://www.happywarrior.us/

And follow her on Twitter at: https://twitter.com/RLongawa

For more information on all of our shows, visit: https://esportsfpn.com/

Full Episode Breakdown:

1:01 – Meeting with Justin, and why it was so exciting to see Ford Models take such a huge interest in esports and gaming.

3:10 – The importance of the multi faceted influencer and why it’s important in the world of esports and gaming.

6:54 – What does it take for an influencer to stand out from the rest, and what does a company like Ford Models look for when trying to find talent.

8:46 – Why there’s many times a disconnect between what brands think they want, metrics wise, and what really should be important to them instead.

10:46 – Why understanding Gen Z and how they engage with content is so important when looking at the right numbers.

12:15 – How is Ford Models finding and determining what talent should be featured.

13:13 – What are the tangibles that they’re working with in understanding what’s best in working with these talents.

15:57 – How does hometown have an affect on how to find areas for the influencers to find new market opportunities

17:03 – How are they approaching putting these traditional sports players into a funnel that can help expand their brand and their reach.

18:08 – What are the barriers that influencers may see, where the work was going to be too much for them.

21:04 – Why traditional athletes need to look at streaming and appearances differently, and why it’s not always about getting paid.

25:21 – What do influencers need to really get going in creating a following and starting to stream?

27:07 – Why should brands be worried about waiting too long in order to get into the game of branding and influencers.

29:10 – What’s on the horizon for Ford Model’s continual work in the world of esports.

31:10 – What’s the balance of Ford Model needing to reach out to recruit vs. talent coming to them for representation. Plus Justin talks about what talent they’re specifically looking for.

34:49 – Why understanding the importance of a true streamer’s strategy can be a key piece to growth for brands, and why general streaming can be a great avenue for so many streamers.

36:30 – Why streamers need to look at really embracing the behind the scenes footage to help give their fans an insider look to their life.