My Picks For The Top Social Media Influencers Of 2021

Who you follow on social media says a lot about how you want to change as a person. For me, I look for influencers who have something to say about life and purpose, especially since I am about to release a new book about finding purpose in our jobs. For this year, my picks for social media influencers of the year are people who I’m following and paying attention to the most.

1. Kristel Bauer

For a masterclass in how to do social media, Kristel Bauer is a rising star. I follow her on LinkedIn because she posts about wellness and does video interviews for her podcast (I even joined her recently). What works? Posting consistently and with insight.

2. Kat Norton

If someone can make Microsoft Excel interesting and fun, hats off to them. Kat Norton does just that on TikTok, infusing her creative energy into a business tool we all use. She’s also a major success story of 2021, garnering mass appeal and boatloads of revenue.

3. David Crowder

Music artist David Crowder knows how to connect with his audience. His Instagram is filled with funny photos and snarky comments, usually about people doing really stupid things. Crowder is a lesson in how knowing your audience can help you grow a following.

4. Rae Ripple

I like when an influencer is actually doing something, not just posting random thoughts. Rae Ripple is a welder and artist who often works on motorcycles, and talks about her projects on Instagram and other channels. 

5. Jason Feifer

One reason I like what editor and author Jason Feifer is doing on social media so much is that I’ve learned quite a bit. His posts are instructive and relevant, especially to entrepreneurs. I still recall an insider post he did about how to contact him by email.

6. Mark Schaefer

If you’re trying to promote something (such as a book or a new company), Mark Schaefer posts some helpful tips and videos on his social media feeds. One of my favorites had to do with creating a compelling video to promote a book using only graphics and audio.

7. Daymond John

The Shark knows how to connect with his audience. I recall some memorable comments from him on Instagram this last year, including a very recent one: “Work life balance is not always scheduled. Sometimes you just have to steal it.”

8. Jon Acuff

Humor is a sure way to keep your audience engaged, especially if you are posting self-deprecating jokes and staying relevant. Speaker and author Jon Acuff tends to give his followers an inside glimpse into his real life.

9. Sadie Robertson Huff

Instagram is the “fun” social media platform, and Sadie Robertson Huff makes the most of the opportunity. The speaker and author gives us a peek into her life but always seems to be having a great time.

10. Bob Goff

One of my favorite authors has started using social media for social good. He posts often about how to dream bigger and avoid distraction in life. He’s turning social media into an extension of his brand (and his coaching and training business).